Design and Construction Report staff writer
The University of Chicago is planning to build an engineering and science building at 5600 S. Ellis Ave. to replace the existing Accelerator Building and High Energy Physics (HEP) Building, which will be demolished to make way for the new development.
Designed by HDR Architecture and Allison Grace Williams, the project will advance research and education in molecular engineering and quantum science.
Mortenson Construction Company will oversee the project, with site preparation set to begin in Summer 2025. The first steps will involve demolishing the old buildings, followed by excavation and foundation work. The target completion date is Fall 2028.
Construction will include:
- Demolishing the existing Accelerator and HEP Buildings
- Excavating and preparing the site for new construction
- Pouring reinforced concrete foundations
- Installing advanced electrical systems to support high-tech labs
- Setting up specialized heating, cooling, and air filtration systems
- Constructing a steel framework for the building’s structure
- Engineering a cantilevered section with reinforced support
- Installing a high-performance glass and metal exterior
- Implementing vibration-resistant flooring in laboratory areas
- Wiring dedicated power infrastructure for scientific research
- Incorporating energy-efficient and weather-resistant materials
- Outfitting laboratory spaces with specialized research equipment
- Completing interior work, including classrooms, offices, and research spaces
- Ensuring adherence to safety regulations and engineering standards
The eight-story building will feature a sleek, modern aesthetic with a glass and metal exterior. The primary structure will run along S. Ellis Ave, while an upper section along E. 56th St will boast a unique, faceted glass design. A standout architectural feature will be the cantilevered upper floors, which will extend outward over a recessed level below, requiring precision in structural engineering.
The labs and research spaces will require specialized conditions, including high performance air filtration for controlled lab environments, vibration-dampening floors for sensitive experiments, advanced electrical systems tailored for research instrumentation, secure and stable power infrastructure for quantum technology, precision temperature and humidity controls to maintain research integrity.
