Schepens Eye Research Institute Laboratory Renovation

Location

Boston, MA / United States

Completed

2002 Phase 1
2004 Phase 2

Total Square Footage

64,000 GSF

PROGRAM COMPONENTS

Molecular Biology, Animal Facility

The mission of a Boston eye research institute is expressed through this study in transparency, translucency and contrasts in color and texture. The scope of the project encompasses a 64,000 SF multi-phase gut renovation that has transformed three floors of an aging 1962 research building into a new prototypical environment for conducting the Institute’s research.

The new design provides a flexible and efficient research environment, including three floors of molecular biology research laboratories and a renovated main entrance lobby. The free-plan laboratory used visual transparency to transform the culture of the institute from a closed 1960s racetrack corridor system to a dynamic and flexible "open laboratory" design, where the laboratories function as open suites on the north and south sides of the building. The open laboratory dramatically increases the amount of assignable lab and lab support space.

The renovation takes full advantage of large perimeter windows to maximize the amount of natural light in the open-ceiling laboratory space to create a loft-like environment. The materials and the spatial fabric employed in the main lobby spaces interlock with the vertical core and public spaces in the lab wing to contrast with the rhythm of the laboratories.