Stowers Institute for Medical Research

Oct. 8, 2001
New Construction Awards 2001 - Honorable Mention

"My dream is to make the Kansas City area, which I call Biomed Valley, the best place for biomedical research within 25 years," says Jim Stowers Jr., chairman of American Century Cos. who, along with his wife Virginia, have bestowed a recent $1.114 billion gift to the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO. The institute conducts basic research into complex genetic systems to unlock the mysteries of disease and find the key to their causes, treatment, and prevention.

The $225 million, world-class biological and medical research facility, totaling more than 640,000 square feet, houses laboratories, research support facilities, an animal resource center, administration, and maintenance. Although scientific teams began occupying the building in late 2000, the institute will eventually house 50 to 60 principal investigators, each directing a team of about 10 researchers.

The Stowers Institute has the beauty and character that directly responds to the Stowers Institute mission statement: "Hope for Life." As a result, the design reflects an interior character of timeless design - permanent in quality and special in detail. Project highlights include:

•"Nature and renewal" is the theme for the materials palette, color selection, wood selections, quality of light, and commission of glass and metal artists and craftsmen.
• Improving human existence is underscored in the interesting nooks and interactive spaces throughout the facility that invite researchers to pause and exchange ideas. Conference rooms, break rooms, shared lab support spaces, and other public spaces are situated along central corridors, and windows are placed in lab doors - all allowing scientists to view what each other is doing.
• The Gallery includes quiet interior niches, indoor gardens, and a pool fountain for gatherings or solitary reflection.

- Linda K. Monroe, Editorial Director

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Buildings, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Building Better Schools

Download this digital resource to better understand the challenges and opportunities in designing and operating educational facilities for safety, sustainability, and performance...

Tips to Keep Facility Management on Track

How do you plan to fill the knowledge gap as seasoned facility managers retire or leave for new opportunities? Learn about the latest strategies including FM tech innovations ...

The Beauty & Benefits of Biophilic Design in the Built Environment

Biophilic design is a hot trend in design, but what is it and how can building professionals incorporate these strategies for the benefits of occupants? This eHandbook offers ...

The Benefits of Migrating from Analog to DMR Two-Way Radios

Are you still using analog two-way radios? Download this white paper and discover the simple and cost-effective migration path to digital DMR radios that deliver improved audio...