Cambridge, MA – Since its launch in 2004, the Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute has developed into a research powerhouse, with ground-breaking discoveries in the capacity of the human genome to fight, cure or prevent some of the world’s most insidious diseases and conditions. In that same period, the institution has doubled in size, with over 1500 scientists across Boston whose work demands functional, flexible, state-of-the-art laboratories and equally innovative offices and behind-the-scenes spaces to support their revolutionary programs.
This astonishing growth rate necessitated the acquisition of 82,000sf of unfinished leased space.
Signer Harris Architects exercised their design capability and first-hand knowledge of the Broad Institute’s mission and organizational behavior to devise a space that meets the institution’s exacting needs and could be delivered on an extremely fast-track schedule.
The project demanded a 22 week construction schedule. Success hinged on the collaborative relationship in which the architects, Broad Institute, Faithful + Gould, and Walsh Construction, contributed strategies critical to maintaining efficiency. Keeping up required a realistic and adaptable design, as well as seamless communication and coordination between all team members on the selection and installation of architectural components, infrastructure, and lab equipment.
Although schedule was paramount, it was equally important that the design accomplish two main tasks: first, the laboratory spaces required built-in flexibility to adjust to changes in use over time. The labs incorporate overhead service carriers and moveable benches to ease transitions. Secondly, the design had to express the value the Broad Institute places on transparency and collaboration. In response, the design makes extensive use of glass to maintain open sightlines, allow penetration of natural light deep into the floor plate, and to communicate the openness and curiosity of its researchers and the institution as a whole.
The design thinking supplied by Signer Harris Architects combined with the efficient planning and execution of the project manager, construction manager and sub-consultants have produced an environment that will facilitate the Institute’s ambitious agenda, even as its programs evolve in the years ahead.