HENN, a renowned architecture firm, has designed the Life Science Advanced Research Center (LS ARC) at Merck’s global headquarters in Darmstadt. This state-of-the-art research facility focuses on cutting-edge technologies within the Life Science sector. The LS ARC is positioned as a cornerstone of the research and development campus, anchoring the Innovation Mile that extends from the Innovation Center at Emanuel-Merck-Platz.
Functionally, the LS ARC represents a new approach to laboratory design, seamlessly integrating laboratories, offices, and communal spaces. It features a modular layout that allows for flexible subdivision, promoting collaboration and adaptability among researchers. The building’s compact cubic form includes two atria that bring in natural daylight and serve as green spaces with indigenous plant species from the Odenwald region.
Externally, a louver structure veils the glazed facade of the LS ARC, offering glimpses into the vibrant interiors. The ground floor houses a demonstration lab, while the upper levels feature an open-plan layout that blends laboratories and offices. Glazed walls strategically positioned throughout the building create visual connectivity, enhancing cohesion within the building and across the campus.
The LS ARC prioritizes sustainability, with rooftop photovoltaic systems generating electricity and greenery helping to mitigate carbon emissions. These eco-conscious features highlight Merck’s commitment to environmental responsibility and are a key aspect of HENN’s architectural design for the research facility. With its focus on vital technologies within Life Science sector and its innovative approach to laboratory design,
