Designed to support Mayo Clinic’s future expansion plans, a key challenge was integrating the new high-profile facility with an existing building. The structural system is partial post-tensioned cast-in-place concrete with a wide module forming system. A highly complex cantilevered slab edge accommodates recessed heating, curtain wall and scrim attachment and post-tensioning anchors. A repetitive forming layout assures reliable reuse of materials combined with column alignment permits the use of a flying formwork system supporting an aggressive cycle time per floor. The lateral system incorporates unbraced frames at each grid for wind and unbalanced earth pressures. The foundations are high-capacity drilled piers extending to competent bedrock. MBJ utilized a special foundation approach incorporating permanent prestressed tie backs in order to accommodate a 30’ grade change to the adjacent existing building. The structural design also took into consideration safe containment of hazardous research materials.

The distinctive exterior cladding of the facility features metal panel, glazing, and perforated metal panel scrim while a two-story entry level lobby showcases exposed concrete finishes. Performance features include variable floor loading, underground pedestrian and utility distribution tunnels, and matched floor elevations to the adjacent existing laboratory building.