Univ. of Miami (Fla.), Marine Technology and Life Sciences Seawater Research Building.
Budget: $39 million.
Size: 75,000 ft2.
Project team: Cambridge Seven Associates, Cambridge, Mass. (architect); X-nth Inc., Maitland, Fla. (lab consultant); Moses and Associates, Gainesville, Fla. (MEP and fire protection engineer); McNamara/Salvia Inc., Miami (structural engineer); Milian, Swain and Associates Inc., Miami (civil engineer); Geomantic Designs Inc., Miami (landscape architect); RWDI, Miramar, Fla. (wind tunnel consultant); contractor TBA.
Completion date: 4Q2011.
Description: Facility for the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science will serve as a new campus gateway and cornerstone for the master plan. Building will house two distinct but connected components: the Marine Life Science Center and the Surge Structure Atmosphere Interaction (SUSTAIN) research facility. The goal is to achieve a better understanding of the relationship between oceans and human health. Research in the Marine Life Science Center will involve aquatic animal models of toxicology and human disease; origins and effects of marine toxins from harmful algae blooms; coral biology/ecology; aquaculture technology; and related topics. The SUSTAIN facility will study the physics and dynamics of land-falling hurricanes and severe wind-driven and wave-induced storm surges. Labs are organized to protect the building from storm damage, with all building aspects (structural, glazing, surfaces, mechanical systems) intended to resist hurricane forces. Program features include wave and wind tanks. LEED Gold certification is being targeted.
Contact: Patricia Intrieri, AIA, Cambridge Seven Associates, pintrieri@c7a.com
