The Biochemistry Laboratory project is a two phase renovation of an existing floor on the VUMC medical research campus. The project includes the construction of modern and flexible laboratories as well as all ancillary support space including carrel and faculty office areas, research alcoves, shared equipment core rooms, conference rooms and break areas.

In response to the department’s continued growth through faculty recruitment, an adaptable program was developed based on national metrics derived from current NIH funding and laboratory design trends. With an anticipated 6-8 kneeholes per principal investigator, the floor and building support areas were developed using metrics for office and ancillary support space with numerous flexible alcoves capable of being converted to an array of specialty uses as new recruits are hired.

The design features large expanses of glass to foster a sense of collaboration and unity within the department. Glazing along the circulation corridors and conference room offer a glimpse into the laboratories, while a full height glass wall with sliding doors separates the lab from the carrels, offering a more private work space while maintaining the visual connection to the lab.

The project continues B+MD’s commitment to LEED certification and received a LEED Gold certification. Phase 1 was completed in the summer of 2015.