University of Utah Huntsman Mental Health Institute
As mental health research and treatment becomes increasingly interdisciplinary, science buildings must do more to foster innovation. Instead of an isolated, vertically-stacked layout that is typical in lab buildings, the design of the Translational Research Building at the University of Utah Huntsman Mental Health Institute allows colleagues to connect up, down and across the building thanks to the project’s sinuous curves, airy atrium and expansive floor plates.
These instantly-connected “neighborhoods” stitch together wet and dry research labs with clinical programs and workspaces. The material selection, which includes light-colored wood tones and bright whites, combined with an extensive facade, weaves the institute seamlessly into its location overlooking the Wasatch Mountain foothills that surround Salt Lake City.
Features
The project uses Target Value Design (TVD) to optimize costs. Digital tools such as computational modeling and VR allowed the project team to understand and adjust design features, such as standardizing façade panel shapes, in response to the client’s budget. In addition, approximately 52,000 SF of flexible shell space creates adaptability for future research needs, with the option to create additional bespoke plans.
Project Details
Client Name
University of Utah
Square Footage
185,000 SF
Program
Laboratories, offices, common space, art gallery, conference center, vivarium, public lobby, imaging suite, café
Services
Architecture, interior design, landscape design, lighting, laboratory planning, programming
Phase
Construction
Sustainability
Targeting zero energy ready, net positive energy, zero carbon and passive house certifications
Client Name
University of Utah
Square Footage
185,000 SF
Program
Laboratories, offices, common space, art gallery, conference center, vivarium, public lobby, imaging suite, café
Services
Architecture, interior design, landscape design, lighting, laboratory planning, programming
Phase
Construction
Sustainability
Targeting zero energy ready, net positive energy, zero carbon and passive house certifications
