University of Virginia Constructs Manning Institute for Biotechnology

The University of Virginia is constructing the $350 million Paul and Diane Manning Institute for Biotechnology in Charlottesville to catalyze breakthroughs in the fields of cellular therapy, gene therapy, nanotechnology, and drug delivery. Designed by Elkus Manfredi Architects, the flexible building will provide 355,809 sf of space for leading-edge laboratories, core facilities, advanced manufacturing suites, and clinical environments. The five-story structure will also feature areas for collaborative R&D with industry partners to accelerate the translation of medical discoveries into life-saving treatments, including a focus on autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis.

Located in the Fontaine Research Park, this biomedical innovation hub will provide support settings and offices arranged around a central landscaped courtyard, as well as a conference center and café that will be accessible to the wider development. A transparent façade will transmit abundant natural illumination to the interior to elevate occupant wellbeing. Energy performance will be enhanced by demand-controlled ventilation, reflective materials, a photovoltaic-ready roof, and sophisticated lighting, plumbing, and waste disposal technologies. The modular facility will be heated and cooled by the all-electric Fontaine Central Energy Plant, which will incorporate a geoexchange system, heat recovery chillers, and thermal storage tanks. 

Skanska USA and Faulconer Construction broke ground on the Manning Institute in December of 2023 and occupancy is slated for the final quarter of 2027. The project team also included BR+A Consulting Engineers, Hope Furrer Associates, Nitsch Engineering, Atelier Ten, Acentech, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, Heintges Consulting Architects & Engineers, CBRE, Vermeulens, Mikyoung Kim, Heller & Metzger, Allegion, and VDA. Affiliated Engineers, Inc. (AEI) designed the Fontaine Central Energy Plant in association with Ayers Saint Gross.