New research and development centre for the biotechnology

RMJM Hillier has been selected as the design architect and laboratory planner for the new research and development centre for the biotechnology company Genzyme Corp... The centre will be based in Beijing's Zhongguancun Life Science Park.

Inspiration for the design came from Genzyme and RMJM Hillier’s mutual commitment to environmental responsibility and collaboration. The research and administrative portions of the building are connected via a sizable light-filled atrium in which a series of horizontal bridges and staircases of varying heights and dimensions promote both a productive and playful movement of people, light and air. The natural and built environments are interwoven through a series of plazas and green spaces that respond to both the interior environment and the exterior landscape.

Innovative green features aim to create a healthy and comfortable workplace for employees, and reduce its environmental impact. They include: a narrow foot print and 4-story atrium to maximize natural ventilation; living roof to reduce pollution caused by storm water runoff; a solar thermal system that will provide a significant portion of the building's hot water and reduce its energy consumption; low-flow fixtures to limit water usage; a high-performance exterior glass system that will provide employees with significant natural light, contributing to a pleasant working environment, and reducing the facility's dependence on electricity; and a sensored motorized blind system to control light and heat gain. The new facility will be used for research and development activities for orphopedics, transplant and immune disease, oncology, endocrinology and cardiovascular disease.
It is hoped the building will be complete and functioning by the end of 2010.