Collaboration for a Cure

Transcription

1 Collaboration for a Cure The Byrd Alzheimer s Institute, Tampa, FL, is one of the world s only fully-integrated facilities focusing on treating and curing a single disease. Alzheimer s is a devastating disease that could eventually affect one in three people in the United States. This unique institution is home to both researchers and clinicians, who closely collaborate with an intensity not found in general medical environments. In fact, researchers proximity to recipient patients dictates an appreciation for the results of their work. However, housing research functions so close to patients without exposing them to any negative aspects is operationally challenging. The innovative collaboration represented by the Byrd Alzheimer s Institute extends further because the facility also houses a data center, where critical Alzheimer s information is collected and coordinated for programs not only in the state of Florida, but also for a growing number of programs nationally and internationally. Key Program Elements Research Laboratories Patient Trials Clinical Research Data Coordination Center Education Center Patient Imaging Vivarium

2 Architectural Goals Reflect the significance of Alzheimer s research in the state of Florida Create an iconic symbol to the state s commitment to finding a cure House flexible, interactive research spaces Respectfully accommodate patients in clinical trials Integrate the facility within the overall fabric of the University of South Florida-Tampa campus Be environmentally responsible Architectural Solutions The design purposefully focused on three primary elements: A glass cube, a metaphorical reference to the mind, both in its simplicity and complexity. Clad in fritted glass, the cube projects a sense of illusiveness as to the activities conducted within. The cube has appropriately become the symbol of this facility. A seven-story research tower organized into highly efficient and flexible laboratory spaces. A connecting glass ribbon structure, home to the principal investigators (and thus the intellectual capital) of the institute. The ribbon emanates from the research tower and intersects with the cube to visually define the overall purpose of the facility: the intervention of advanced science to cure a specific disease. A dramatic lobby ascends from the intersection of the two building masses. A colorful, kinetic sculpture titled Neuron Brain/Cloud, created by the late artist Rob Fisher, hangs above the lobby, further reinforcing the cube symbolism. The educational center, where national research seminars and public education forums occur, is artfully expressed as a wood clad structure within the Cube. Patients who are generally compromised have immediate access to the welcoming first floor clinic, but are separated from the intense research environments. Soothing, calming colors, easily understood circulation paths and other unique elements such as a fish tank provide appropriate diversions. Patients are greeted at the main front door drop off, and are escorted at all times during their stay. Large windows provide natural light in nearly

3 all clinic spaces, providing a helpful outside reference at all times as well as a calming connection to nature. Subtle architectural conveniences, such as a flush to the floor weight station, are integrated throughout the clinic area to assist in overcoming particular patient issues. An imaging suite within the facility provides the ability for immediate feedback about interventional impacts and aids in monitoring physical changes in patients. Because of Alzheimer s familial impacts, family members needs are addressed with spaces such as intimate dining retreats, a park-like patio and educational counseling spaces. Site Considerations The building was designed in an L shape to wrap around an existing tree grouping, saving many trees on the site as well as providing a visual and environmental enhancement to the completed facility. The vertical nature of the design not only reduces the footprint of the building, it magnifies the prominence of the structure, thus achieving one of the institute s goals: to have a significant and symbolic presence in the community and the state. Because of the high portion of research labs in the facility, energy conservation was an important issue, addressed by utilizing contemporary efficiency approaches, while retaining necessary reliability and long-term flexibility. The large, open and adaptable labs provide flexibility and reduce the need for major construction modifications if future changes are desired.

4 Facts & Figures Building Area: 108,050 square feet Cost per square foot: $266 Construction Cost: $28,708,678 Date of Substantial Completion: September 2007 Project Team Architect 5426 Bay Center Dr. Suite 400 Tampa, FL Interior Designer Elements General Contractor Turner Construction Co. MEP Engineer Civil Engineer HDR Engineering, Inc. Structural Engineer Landscape Architecture HDR Engineering, Inc. Security & Telecom HDR Security Operations, Inc. Specifications ArchiSpec, Inc. Specialty Lighting Grenald Waldron Associates Geotechnical Engineering Nodarse & Associates, Inc. Surveyor Northwest Engineering, Inc. Subsurface Survey George F. Young, Inc. Vibration Consulting Colin Gordon & Associates Cost Consultant Trimar Construction Threshold Inspector ACS Geosciences Permitting Agency Contacts Southwest Florida Water Mgmt. District

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