Construction Continues on UCLA Research Park

The University of California, Los Angeles is constructing the UCLA Research Park to create an engine of innovation and economic growth for Southern California and beyond. The visionary project is transforming the former Westside Pavilion shopping mall into a dynamic destination where basic scientists join with industry experts to advance discovery and commercialization. Acquired by UCLA in December of 2023, the property encompasses more than 1.3 million gsf on 9.2 acres, with two main buildings spanning a total of 700,000 sf connected by an enclosed pedestrian bridge.

The first phase, Research Park East, will accommodate the California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy and facilities for the David Geffen School of Medicine, including the Goodman-Luskin Microbiome Center. The Quantum Innovation Hub will occupy 40,000 sf of specialized lab space on the basement level to address the requirements of sensitive instrumentation, with plans for future expansion. The multidisciplinary structure will also provide collaboration zones, incubator venues for startup companies, a maker space, offices, outdoor terraces, and gathering areas. Completion is expected in late 2027. In a subsequent phase, a 12-screen cinema will be reimagined as Research Park West, which will possibly house additional laboratories, auditoria, and settings for performances, seminars, or small conferences.

Flad Architects is the executive architect and master planner for the complex, which is located less than two miles from the university's Westwood campus. The sustainable development is targeting LEED Gold certification and will integrate leading-edge technologies to optimize energy performancee. The project is part of a strategic initiative to expand UCLA’s footprint through adaptive reuse, repurposing existing buildings while avoiding the need for major new construction.