 Oscar L. Murray was the architect of the building whose cost by October 1898 was $35,000, and was planned that included physical and biological laboratories, a library, gymnasium, a 280-seat assembly room, bicycle and lunch rooms.By May 1899, the plans had been firmed up to include a two-story structure with basement, with an interior to be finished in red oak.Heat would be provided by steam, with electric fans and an automated clock and signal system.