A new model for a scientific research campus to open in Virginia

A new Research Campus for the Howard Hughes Medical Institute designed by Rafael Vinoly Architects of NewYork, is set to open on 5 October 2006. Called Janelia Farm, the 740,411 square foot campus, which is situated 281-acres of heavily wooded land along the Potomac River in Asburn, Virginia, is, according to its architect, “a first-of-its-kind complex”. Vinoly said in a press release that the “complex transforms accepted patterns of scientific research and typical designs for lab buildings. “All aspects of the research center- the programs, the people, the design of the buildings and infrastructure- will stimulate the multi-disciplinary, team-driven research needed to advance medical science.” The Janelia Farm Complex includes a laboratory building, conference guest rooms and apartments for visiting scientists. The project’s centerpiece is a 1,000- foot–long, terraced and flexible laboratory building with an undulating façade that appears as three sinuous ribbons on the landscape.