UMDNJ New Jersey Medical School - University Hospital Cancer Center, Newark, New Jersey, United States

When the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ) commissioned Hillier Architecture to design the new 200,000-square-foot New Jersey Medical School - University Hospital Cancer Center, the architects designed with the idea of collaboration – between researchers from different fields, physicians and patients – in mind. Adaptable laboratory spaces, robust infrastructure and research cores create flexible work spaces and communication centers in the state-of-the-art facility. The nine-storey cancer center, located on one of the highest points in Newark, is a bold visual marker with a futuristic glass façade and L-shaped exterior fin. The key program elements include: research laboratories, vivaria, clinical exam/treatment areas, clinical trial facilities, display and learning centers, patient/family resource center, healing gardens, academic spaces/offices, conference and classroom facilities (formal integration), and a communication spine (informal integration).