Design Lead, Programming and
Laboratory Planning:
The Freelon Group
Architect of Record:
O'Brien/Atkins Assoc.

The Biomanufacturing Research Institute & Technology Enterprise is a part of a statewide initiative to make North Carolina a premiere provider of skilled workers for the biotechnology industry. The BRITE Facility supports academic degree programs in biomanufacturing and biotechnology at the baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral degree levels.

The building's site plan consists of a 35,000GSF research laboratory addition to the Mary M. Townes Science Building. Though literally connected to the Science Center for functional purposes, BRITE’s intent is to establish its own image within the complex.  This led to a concept which respects the architectural character of the existing science complex by using similar materials, yet stands apart in scale and form.

Visibility for BRITE is a driving factor for the planning of the project.  The north end of the building, conceived as a gateway for the campus and a highly visible entrance for BRITE, is designed with a 45 foot high modern archway.  This archway will be highly visible from the east and west. Adjacent to the archway is the building entrance which includes a 2 story space and monumental public stair.  The elevation of the building intentionally projects beyond the Mary M. Townes Science Center allowing BRITE to have a significant presence along Lawson Street from both the east and west. 

The entire BRITE facility is dedicated to laboratories for faculty to conduct basic/applied research in areas related to biomanufacturing. The facility also houses common equipment rooms, core laboratories, and modules for "hands on" training of program participants. The common equipment rooms and core laboratories are typical of those found in biotechnology companies. The modules will initially support training in eight areas of specialization - microbiology, QC/QA, Analytical Chemistry, Cell Culture, microbial physiology, purification, virology, and bench scale process development and recovery.

Photography:
JWestProductions