University of Washington
Molecular Engineering and Sciences Institute

The University of Washington's new Molecular Engineering and Sciences Institute advances biotechnology and clean-technology research. The building's main corridors feature architecturally integrated, daylight-dimming fluorescent lighting tucked between translucent removable fins, creating a soft glow to the surrounding flexible spaces. Transparent collaboration spaces lit by downlights and wall-washed writable surfaces are spread throughout the building to encourage the cross-pollination of ideas. Laboratories and offices encompass a similar profile of indirect and direct daylight-dimming pendant fixtures with linear lighting integrated along the cable tray, providing discreet separation between offices and laboratories while maintaining visibility between spaces to encourage collaboration.

The linear red-green-blue (RGB) LED accentuates the facility's skylight, helping to avoid night-sky pollution. The RBC-LED lighting fills the skylight with color viewable from above and below. Additional lighting solutions encompass color-coded lights near operable windows, signaling to users when natural ventilation is possible, and integrated fan controls into the lighting control keypad for ease of use. Architecturally integrated and wall-mounted dimming fixtures illuminate the stairwells, providing transitional lighting between the landing and break area.

LOCATION:
Seattle, Washington

SIZE:
90,000 square feet

PROJECT PARTNERS:
Affiliated Engineers, Inc.
ZGF Architects LLP

LEED® STATUS:
LEED Gold

AWARDS:
2012 Best Higher Education/Research Project - ENR

2012 Best Higher Education Project - ENR Northwest

2013 Edwin F. Guth Memorial Award for Interior Lighting Design, National and Local Awards - IES

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