The transformation of the University of Connecticut Health Center’s Cell and Genome Sciences Building in Farmington from a nondescript, late-1970s industrial research building into a state-of-the-art university research facility demonstrates how older buildings can find new life. Goody Clancy Architects designed extensive lab and support spaces, and a major data center for analysis of enormous data streams.

Acentech’s audiovisual system design features full digital video switching technology that not only supports events within the building which can stream to other spaces within the health center, but also allows for interaction with remote users in various locations for distance learning. The AV systems serve small conference rooms, break out spaces, and a centrally located lecture auditorium. We designed a dual video projection system for the auditorium, which features 4 cameras that enable video capture recording and simultaneous streaming to remote users. The AV system for the demonstration lab also supports presentations to be shared with an local audience or remotely via videoconferencing.

Acousticians at Acentech consulted on noise control in public areas, acoustical treatments for good hearing conditions in presentation spaces, and mechanical system noise control.

This project was named 2011 Laboratory of the Year (Renovation) by R&D Magazine.