Health Emotions Research Institute

Project summary:

The University of Wisconsin-Madison's HealthEmotions Research Institute Building, a health care/research facility, located in the University Research Park, consisted of a 42,740 square foot building addition.

Adjacent to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Psychiatry Department and Sleep Center, the location allows for the rapid translation of research findings related to Psychiatry and behavioral neurosciences.

The interdisciplinary institute focuses on the study of emotions and how they affect physical and mental health. The facility includes a vivarium, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suite, laboratories, exploratory classroom, subject test rooms, sleep study rooms, interview, observation, exam and conference rooms, along with support spaces and offices.

One of the objectives of the building's design was a contemporary and comfortable atmosphere, without feeling too much like a health care or academic building. The combination of the expansive glass windows in the atrium and the vertical, transparent stair gives the entrance and lobby an airy feel.

The distinctive roof design gives visitors a clear indication of where the building entrance is located.

Upon entering the two-story, light-filled atrium features maple paneling, doors and casework. The maple detailing continues downstairs to the lower level reception desk. The maple is accented by frosted glass along the reception desk. Natural daylight and pendant lights over the reception desk provide ample lighting throughout the day.

The conference room features large windows, neutral carpet tiles and maple finishes. A soffit hides video project equipment and artwork provides a finishing touch to the welcoming and comfortable area.

In contrast to the typical white and sterile healthcare and research facility, the interior features a warm color palette, enhanced by an abundance of natural light.

The laboratory space also features warm colors, a contrast to the typical white laboratory aesthetics. The flexible lab spaces feature exposed mechanical systems, which makes it easier to reconfigure the research space when necessary.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is a world leader in emotions research. The new building provides state-of-the-art research space for studying the biology of emotions and how they affect physical and mental health.

Once of the most important assets of the facility is the state-of-the-art research magnetic resonating imaging (MRI) machine on site. It gives researchers the ability to image people's brains, enabling scientists to understand how different parts of the brain react under different circumstances. The tool allows them to understand how the brain operates in different emotional states.

Most importantly, the research conducted at the new facility will enable researchers to understand how brain function relates to the body's physiology. Technologies will be used to understand brain function in normal individuals and in those suffering from major mental illnesses. The ultimate goal of this research will be to enable health care professionals to better understand and help people with mental illnesses.