Located in the bustling biotech and life sciences hub of Waltham, Massachusetts, 103 CityPoint is a state-of-the-art facility designed to house laboratory, cGMP manufacturing, and office spaces all under one roof. The project succeeds in that regard
while also showcasing the versatility of translucent wall systems and claddings from Kingspan Light + Air.
The project was developed by Boston Properties (BXP) and designed by TRIA. BXP's goal, and TRIA's challenge, was to redefine conventional life sciences facilities by seamlessly integrating diverse functions in a single building. Their vision: a multifunctional,
adaptable space that would foster innovation and support various tenant needs—whether for labs, manufacturing, or offices. Achieving this level of flexibility presented unique challenges; namely balancing functional requirements with modern
design, meeting stringent energy codes, and attaining LEED certification, all while optimizing the indoor environment for occupant well-being. To address these challenges, Kingspan Light + Air’s UniQuad® and PentaClad™ systems
were integral to the building’s design.
The UniQuad® translucent wall system delivers abundant, glare-free daylight to office and lab areas, significantly enhancing indoor lighting quality while reducing dependency on electric lighting. This system contributed to the building’s
energy efficiency and helped secure its LEED Silver certification.
PentaClad™ translucent cladding was selected for its versatility and ability to complement the aesthetic of the UniQuad® system, enhancing the more industrial, non-conditioned sections of the facility and helping bring the two spaces together.
The modern look of the translucent wall systems during daytime hours is accentuated even more by the integration of LED lighting that allows for eye-catching light displays, creating a welcoming and playful exterior that blends the two different
translucent panel sections and sets the stage for the building's innovative interior environment.
“This facility embodies the innovation and collaboration needed in today’s life sciences world," said Dan Szczebak, principal-in-charge, TRIA. "By integrating research, development, and manufacturing into one flexible space, we’ve
created a facility that can evolve with our tenants’ needs. The daylighting systems not only enhanced the building’s sustainability but also helped us create a bright, inviting atmosphere for the cutting-edge work taking place here.”
Handling the installation of the Kingspan Light + Air products was Lymo Construction. The project's general contractor was Commodore Builders.