Stanford University, RMLC

Richard M. Lucas Center Addition

Stanford, California

This expansion houses the most advanced non-actively shielded 7T full-body MRI, a newly emerging technology. Sixty feet away is an unshielded cyclotron. Having both machines benefits Stanford's research efforts enormously, but in order to provide adequate shielding from magnetic fields and radiation, the facility had to be constructed 32 feet underground. The design challenge was to bring light to below-grade offices and research laboratories.

To the east of the building, a curtain wall spanning both underground levels opens onto a landscaped light court open to the sky. This innovation brings natural light into the underground spaces, provides a backdrop for the cascading stairs and sculptural glass bridge and provides a gathering space for researchers to share their ideas. Added amenities for this facility and an adjacent building include a new landscaped entry courtyard.

The finished facility has paved the way for grants to help fund their work targeting Alzheimers, cancer and other pursuits.