McCarthy, in partnership with Flad Architects, has completed the construction of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute's (MBARI) new robotic technology lab in California, US.
Located adjacent to MBARI’s existing research buildings in Moss Landing, the 30,000ft² two-storey Instrumentation Integration and Testing Facility is designed to bolster MBARI's marine science and engineering programmes.
The new building is designed to stand up to the challenges of its coastal location.
During the construction period, the team developed a reverse forming system to keep the sand in place while laying the foundation.
This was further reinforced to support a 10t overhead crane to move the 20,000lb panels used to create the building's board-form concrete walls.
McCarthy operations vice-president Ephraim Bahiru said: "Through our work with MBARI, McCarthy has built a facility that not only achieves MBARI's goals but also respects the surrounding coastal environment.
"The substantial laboratory space enhances research capabilities, while our mindful approach - minimising disruption, protecting environmental spaces, and maintaining community access - reflects our dedication to balancing innovative construction practices with environmentally-considerate solutions."
The facility is expected to expand MBARI's capacity for developing advanced technology to study the ocean.
It comprises a research and engineering high bay and a sub-assembly area, along with a range of specialised laboratories for instrumentation, engineering, and science, all aimed at supporting research.
Additionally, the facility houses a multimedia room, a freezer farm for sample storage, and a computer room, as well as other support spaces.
Key features of the Monterey Bay Aquarium robotic lab include the use of resilient, sustainable materials to combat salt corrosion, a stormwater management system to reduce runoff, a bird deterrent system to protect the roof from seagulls, and coastal construction “innovations” for building on a site with high water tables and sandy soils.
Flad Architects associate principal and project manager Susan Seastone said: “This project embodies the intersection of sustainable innovation and advanced construction practices.
“Together, we have created a facility that supports MBARI's mission and will withstand the coastal elements by integrating leading-edge stormwater management, environmentally friendly bird deterrent systems, and corrosion-resistant materials.”
Design subconsultants and trade partners in the project include exp Engineers, Collins Electrical, Granite Rock, Rutherford + Chekene, Westco, Axiom Engineers, FM Booth, BKF, and Rana Creek.
