Our Facilities

Home to scientists, students and administrative employees, Van Andel Institute’s Grand Rapids, Michigan facility has many unique design elements, including:

• Glass roof structures and windows that provide abundant natural light, even to several laboratories
• Open spaces and layout that foster random encounters and the free exchange of ideas among employees working in different areas
• Innovative system of climate control based on integrated design of walls, roofs and lab fixtures
• Custom-designed modular lab benches and work surfaces that are adjustable and easy to reconfigure
• Below-grade (partially underground) levels accommodate research requiring reduced or no light
• Raked floor of the building’s auditorium located below grade to profit from natural acoustic and visual isolation

The building is set into a steep hill at the edge of the town center. The building not only follows the slope of the hill, using its natural properties to its advantage, but also reflects the environment of Grand Rapids; three segmented convex glass roofs cascade down the east side of the building, evoking the rapids of the nearby Grand River. This beacon of hope on the Michigan Street hill is as exciting and impressive as the work within it.

Phase II Expansion

The building was designed with a planned future expansion in mind. This "Phase II" expansion broke ground on April 12, 2007 and will triple the facility’s size. Located downhill from the original building, Phase II will repeat the design strategy of Phase I on a larger scale and with a reversed orientation. (learn more)