The Wistar Institute is partnering with University Place Associates to construct a 240,000-sf life science discovery hub in the University City district of Philadelphia. Designed to accelerate innovation by providing shared resources and critical infrastructure, the collaborative project will provide leasable laboratories and offices for biotech firms, research companies, and academic institutions. The sustainably designed structure is pre-certified LEED Platinum and will feature a digital skin with smart glass, SEMCO chilled beams, and a sophisticated HVAC system providing nearly 100 percent fresh air filtered by MERV-13 technology. The building is expected to be up to 30 percent more energy efficient and 40 percent more water efficient than a conventional structure, with a green roof enabling collected rainwater to be reused in the building's cooling system. The facility will include retail amenities on the lower floors to foster a dynamic live/work/play ecosystem. Ground will be broken on the project in late 2019 and occupancy is expected in early 2021.
