NYU School of Medicine, Surgical Education Training Center, Dissection Lab & Cryo-EM at the Smilow Research Center

New York, New York

Firm

Jack L. Gordon Architects

Client

NYU School of Medicine

Area

30,000 sq.ft.

Completion Date

06/2018

Rene Perez

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Jack L. Gordon Architects (JLGA) designed the transformation of the heavily flood-damaged cellar and mezzanine levels of the Smilow Research Center into a first-of-its-kind Surgical Training Center where practicing surgeons can learn face transplantation from those who pioneered the technique.

JLGA re-imagined a dark and closed former vivarium space as a bright, welcoming, and interactive plastic surgery learning suite featuring a reconfigurable, 44-seat lecture hall and 1,500-square-foot cadaveric dissection laboratory. A viewing window visually connects the spaces and, facilitated by advanced A/V systems, enables surgeons-in-training to observe demonstrations in real time.

The center includes a 1,800-square-foot laboratory research core, dedicated lobby/reception, lounge, pantry, and a Cryo-Electron Microscopy Suite.
JLGA employed extra-bright lights to counter the lack of natural light, and a warm color palette to create a welcoming sense of comfort in public spaces. Contrasting cool blue tones and metallic finishes define the research/learning areas. The design opened up the space and countered low ceiling heights by removing a stair, columns, and walls.

New mechanical systems replaced the systems damaged by Super Storm Sandy, and flood mitigation measures were put into place.