The MCA Foundation had the vision to create “a look into the future”, a statement that announced the arrival of the Medical Center of the Americas throughout the biotechnology industry. More importantly, they sought to revitalize the economically distressed community surrounding the Technology Park.
To achieve this level of stature the foundation required an iconic structure. The Cardwell Collaborative’s distinctively modern design provides a sense of transparency, aesthetically expressing the research being done within. To articulate this feature, the transparent glazing and stair towers offer the occupants’ views of the local landscape, while acting as a visual experience to those passing by. This transparent exterior creates a dynamic visual element through the use of continually changing LED lighting. The canted and bent façade, a subtle nod to the region’s mountain range and its cantilevered brow becomes a lit beacon at night. Establishing a design standard for all future architectural language used on campus, and raises the bar for future design within the city.
The building is unmistakable whether traveling East or West throughout the City. Designed to support growth for the region’s existing biomedical cluster, the new research facility provides office suites, laboratories, incubator, and other flexible work spaces suitable for start-up companies. To ensure the facility’s design was ideal for researchers, vibration and acoustical studies were conducted for the surrounding thoroughfares.
The building itself is designed to meet LEED Silver certification, with unique sustainable technology showcased throughout. Materials are locally sourced and manufactured, with native drought resistant landscaping and vegetation, with plum studies to reduce extensive exhaust pollution. Due to the sites existing conditions, the landscape was reclaimed and revitalized to withstand harsh weather conditions as the season's change.
This facility serves as a modern-day landmark, symbolizing innovation and growth within the Paseo del Norte region and bio-medical field of study.