Genzyme Corp. recently marked the grand opening of its new Science Center in Framingham, Mass. The facility serves as a central site for early stage research, where scientists are utilizing advanced technologies to discover novel new treatments for devastating diseases.

The company also announced that the Science Center received a Gold certification under the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System™. 

The Science Center incorporates environmentally responsible and employee-friendly design strategies. Offices and labs surround the 180,000-square-foot building's six-story central atrium and are connected by open meeting spaces to foster collaboration. At capacity, approximately 350 employees will occupy the Science Center.

The building's green features include a sophisticated heating and cooling system, high-efficiency fume hoods for researchers, and low-flow water fixtures. The extensive use of glass reduces electricity needs and contributes to a pleasant working environment by allowing a large amount of natural light inside. It is estimated that the Science Center uses 26 percent less energy and 40 percent less water than a comparable conventional building.

The architect for the project was ARC/Architectural Resources Cambridge Inc., the engineer was Bard, Rao & Athanas Consulting Engineers Inc. and the contractor was The Science Center is one component of an ongoing global expansion of the company's R&D and manufacturing infrastructure.

Source: Genzyme Corporation