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The National Space Biomedical Research Institute and Center for Space Medicine is a consortium of 12 institutions leading a national effort to conduct the integrated, critical path, biomedical research necessary to support long-term human presence, development, and exploration of space and enhance life on Earth by applying the resulting advances in human knowledge and technology.
Kirksey designed 16,500 sf of interior space in Rice’s Biomedical Research Collaborative (BRC) building prominently located in the Texas Medical Center to serve as NSBRI/CSM’s office and laboratory space. Located on the 9th floor, the design centers around bringing the public, academia, and neighboring or visiting institutions into their space to witness and understand their mission. “Look-in ledges” are provided in the public corridors and serve a gathering point to encourage collaboration and observe working spaces. The entire build-out includes three flexible demonstration laboratories, one support lab, reception, board room, offices, meeting spaces, and a collaboration lounge. All areas were designed to promote interaction with space-themed aesthetics, graphics, and information available at every opportunity.