Portfolio Category: Science & Technology

Originally constructed in the early 1990s, the Biomedical Polymers Research Building (BPRB) at the University of Utah had grown outdated and no longer met the evolving needs of modern research. Tasked with revitalizing the facility, TSA was initially engaged to develop a comprehensive master plan, followed by the design and execution of major renovations on the building’s first and second floors.

Guided by Principal Investigators Dr. Wes Sundquist and Dr. Monica Vetter, the project—home to the Biochemistry and Neurobiology Departments—sought to enhance research capabilities through flexible, adaptable workspaces; expanded lab bench capacity; and environments that promote collaboration and interdisciplinary interaction.

TSA responded with the design of a large, open, and highly flexible lab environment featuring movable and height-adjustable benches. By removing physical barriers and introducing thoughtful spatial planning, the renovated labs now benefit from increased natural daylight and visual connectivity to the outdoors, dramatically improving the overall user experience.

The redesigned space supports both bench-based and computational research and includes vital support areas such as microscopy rooms, tissue culture facilities, constant temperature rooms, fume hoods, conference rooms, and private offices. A modern palette of finishes and materials brings a fresh, contemporary aesthetic that aligns with the University’s forward-looking research mission.

This transformation not only meets the functional demands of cutting-edge research but also contributes to the University’s ability to attract and retain top-tier scientific talent.

Prime Insurance, a specialty insurer located in Sandy, Utah, was in need of a 27,000 square foot addition and remodel. Thirty years of success and growth necessitated an update to their headquarters, additional space for their ever-growing staff and a new look to promote their forward-thinking brand. This high-tech office transformation includes a new two-story wing that houses private offices, an executive conference suite, open production areas and new workout/locker facilities. The remodeled space also includes a flexible conference center and additional open work areas. Key objectives of this project included delivering architecture reflective of a contemporary corporate culture, modern amenities, and supporting interdepartmental connectivity through design.

The Biology Department requested TSA specifically to commission the Master Planning of the second floor of the U of U South Biology Building. TSA coordinated entirely new mechanical, electrical, and lab gas systems for this higher education lab design. Charged with reinventing a major portion of this building, we developed a multi-phase master plan and designed exciting contemporary lab spaces that allow researchers to complete their work with confidence and ease. During the 4 phase process, we completed Labs 201, 205, 209 and 212. 

TSA Architects was selected to provide architectural services in a complete renovation of the plaza for the purpose of making it more engaging, functional, and inviting. The project includes replacement and upgrading the plaza landscape, creating a campus shuttle stop to serve hospital patients and other building staff and visitors, and creating various shaded gathering and multi-function outdoor spaces for the 500 building occupants, including natural and artificial shade, convenience power, a gas grill, and a myriad of seating and gathering configurations. The landscaping at the perimeter of the plaza will replace the existing sod with new xeriscape plantings, and all new landscaping will be drought tolerant, and upgrade the scheme to Salt Lake City and University standards.

Located at the Shoreline Ridge apartments, this solar pavilion provides students with an environmentally friendly gathering space. The Plaza includes solar panel canopies with built-in tables and chairs, gas barbecues and a fire pit. The project utilized materials such as Cor-ten steele and native Utah sandstone that evoke the Wasatch Mountains and Red Butte Gardens. TSA and our key consultants provided A/E services on a pro-bono basis, demonstrating our commitment to sustainable design at the University.

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