DESIGN
TJU Caroline Kimmel
Biomedical Research Building
Firm: Payette Associates, Inc.
Role: Architect, Designer for Colloquium, Conference Center, Loading Dock & Back-of-House
Overview: The Caroline Kimmel Biomedical Research Building, at approximately 360,000 GSF of new high-rise construction, serves as a gateway to Jefferson's Research Corridor in Center City Philadelphia. The new tower expands the existing capabilities of Jefferson's cancer and neurological research, and fosters inter- and intra-departmental collaboration. The design includes a conference center with flexible seating and partitions, which dynamically connect the grand atrium space and rooftop garden on separate levels. This multi-level atrium becomes the building's "centerpiece" between the existing Bluemle Research Building and new tower, creating an exciting research hub that overlooks South Philadelphia.
CONFERENCE CENTER DESIGN STUDIES
Colloquium as Planes
Surfaces of the colloquium extend through the atrium's aperture to define architectural elements at level and into the research floors above. The planes visually guide views towards the lightwell at the top of the atrium and communicating stairwells, to serve as wayfinding elements.
Colloquium as Object
The colloquium visually and tectonically preserves itself as its own entity and does not reach into adjoining atrium spaces. The exterior faces of the colloquium provide glimpses into the beauty inside.
Colloquium as Penetrable Object
The boundary between the colloquium and adjoining atrium space is blurred, so that there is no clear distinguishment between the two. The perimeter of the colloquium tectonically mimics the guardrails and lightwell surface treatment above.
PLANES
OBJECTS
Continuous Atrium Floor
See image gallery for diagrams.
Sunken Atrium Floor
See image gallery for diagrams.
PUBLIC CONNECTION TO ROOFTOP GARDEN
Section A
Through the multi-story colloquium and flexible conference center spaces, the atrium connects to the occupiable rooftop garden. The rooftop garden serves as an architectural transition between the high-rises of Philadelphia and neighboring residential areas.