In June 2009, the University of Chicago opened a new facility on campus, designed to help inspire and facilitate the interplay of ideas between scientists and researchers, brought together to try to tackle some of the world’s deadliest diseases.

The soaring new $244 million Gwen and Jules Knapp Center for Biomedical Discovery was designed by Zimmer Gunsul Frasca (ZGF) Architects of Los Angeles and has been likened to a greenhouse – open, spacious and full of light. Vast, flexible laboratory and office spaces promote interaction and collaboration among scientific investigators.

Forms +Surfaces® was brought into the project in 2006, due to ZGF’s appreciation of our two light contrasting materials: Mist™ and Linen™, and our Stainless Steel wall panels (LEVELe™ Float). These non-directional, low-reflectivity surfaces complement the stone and glass of the facility in a simple, high-tech way.

After spending several months specifying products, sending samples, establishing budgets and finalizing details, the project scope was set: ten floors of elevator panels and frames, 900 sq ft of large wall panels in the auditorium, and four elevator interiors.

When the project moved into construction, it was divided into multiple phases, bids and awards. We ended up coordinating with two custom elevator contractors, as well as a drywall and acoustical panel company on the auditorium panels. We were able to collaborate with a number of different contractors to help bring a clean, modern look to the new biomedical facility, just as we hope their scientists are able to work together in this inspirational space to prevent and cure disease.