University of Michigan, A. Alfred Taubman Biomedical Science Research Building

Two laboratory blocks and a sinuous office ribbon are connected by bridges across a full-height, skylit, publically-accessible atrium. This innovative planning strategy separates scientists’ private offices from their research spaces; the need to traverse the atrium sponsors community by increasing the possibility of interaction and reducing the insularity of the standard research environment.

The ribbon’s distinctive double-glass curtain wall acts as a foil to the rectilinear geometry of the laboratories and brings natural light into the traditionally sterile laboratory environment. The project responds to the character of its campus site, including the consideration of student pathways and continuity with the adjacent green space.

Ventilated in summer and closed in winter, the double-glass façade conserves energy and creates a comfortable interior environment with excellent daylight quality and shading control. The terra cotta block and stainless steel panel rain screen wall enclosure system on the lab facades provides increased insulation, less air infiltration, and requires no scheduled maintenance.