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Client
Northwestern University
Neighborhood
Streeterville
Architect/Designer
Perkins & Will
Size
700,000 sf

The 600,000 sf, 14-story Simpson Querrey Biomedical Research Center provides critical space for investigators working in cancer, heart disease, neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes and other areas of study. The building houses nine floors of laboratory space which are designed to be large, flexible spaces known as neighborhoods, with each accommodating six to nine research teams. With a goal of impacting health for generations to come, the building was designed to accommodate a 14-story vertical expansion. Our project team coordinated the installation of all MEP systems to reflect the owner’s vision for future expansion. This required an intricate selection process of experienced and specialized subcontractors to ensure the proper systems were installed to account for future growth. The research center features a vivarium 50 feet below grade with multiple procedure rooms and holding areas for specimen. This allows researchers the ability to control the noise and vibrations of their studies, eliminating any interference with operations on higher floors. 

Deep Foundation Urban Excavation

  • Coordinated 98,000 cy dirt removal on tight urban site while securing perimeter with sheeting and external soil anchors to protect surrounding structures

  • Replaced former Prentice Hospital caissons—installed 100+ new ones in woven pattern around existing supports, reaching 102' deep with 22' diameter bases

  • Enabled 58-foot basement construction immediately adjacent to two levels of active vivarium research

Complex Below-Grade Construction

  • Proposed unique earth retention solution during bid to protect priceless, years-long vivarium research

  • Installed internal bracing against existing foundation wall—vivariums directly adjacent—solving water table soil anchor issues

  • Executed underground work with zero impacts to Northwestern University critical research