Brainy Building

“Can a building called the Brain Performance Institute make you smarter? Actually… yes it can.” That’s the opening of an article in Modern Steel Construction Magazine written by Datum Gojer Engineers Thomas Taylor and Rodolfo D’Arlach. They explain how they handled the engineering challenges of constructing an elliptical building designed to resemble the human frontal lobe.

The Center for BrainHealth’s Brain Performance Institute is the first in the world to focus on leveraging scientifically validated programs and assessments in order to maximize and extend brain performance, increase brain resilience and improve brain regeneration for people of all ages and conditions. The 62,000-square-foot facility was designed to stimulate, train, and enhance the brains of each participant that visits the space. The building’s layout was informed by the brain itself.

Through “cerebral” solutions developed in project team discussions, the design vision was constructed within budget. Efficient plate columns, modular panels and optimized integration of roof joists and exterior columns helped realize the vision of the “showcase element”, the elliptical lobby. This dynamic entry to the facility houses a grand stair, brain-inspired art installations, and a bowed wooden ceiling feature. Enveloping the ellipse, the remaining façade features a rhythmic pattern of solid and void panels inspired by an EEG strip.

In addition to Page and Datum Gojer Engineers, project team members included general contractor Turner Construction Company and steel fabricator / detailer Schuff Steel – Gulf Coast.

To view the article in Modern Steel Magazine, click here.

To learn more about the Brain Performance Institute, click here.