The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology: A New Unique Home for an International Research Center of Inflammatory Sciences

An international center for research into the inflammatory sciences called the Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology relocated from London to Oxford to affiliate with the University of Oxford. Due to the relocation, the institute was in need of new building, thus, the University of Oxford appointed Make Architects for that purpose.

The new KIR’s building houses a laboratory, teaching hub, and training facility. Considered such case, the firm intended to develop a building which is distinctive in its own way while keeping it synced with other buildings within the campus vicinity, including the Make-designed Old Road Campus Research Building [ORCRB].

The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology

In order to make the Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology stand out, the firm in charge opted for placing a corner setback that allows the front elevation an asymmetric twist. This design further emphasized by the symmetry of the upper-level facades as well as the ground-level social space. The firm also designed a well-defined sequence of entrance spaces to complement the wider campus layout.

Vertical cladding was used in the design to fit its surrounding neighbors. The glass panels were incorporated into the design to create alternating reflective and matte strips that reflect the view of the ORCRB’s green cladding.

In the end, the firm presented a singular structure with a familial connection to the KIR’s neighbors, a proud center for the institute and a facility for accommodating its important research.

Impressive Atrium

The institute showcases several distinctive features. One of them is the impressive atrium intact with its glass and steel staircase. The full-height glazed atrium features the staircase at the heart of the building, acting as the circulation hub that rises up from the ground floor.

Focused on the staircase, it comes with an elegant white zig-zag design and thin stringers that support the risers and treads. This design combo helps deliver a sense of crisp scientific precision.

Bright Spaces

On the ground floor, there is a cafe that has a light and bright design. It is a nice place to take some break while chatting with the peers.

Another distinctive feature of the building is this generous roof terrace. The roof terrace is quite spacious and offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding campus woodland.

Via Make Architects