620 Memorial Drive was originally expanded in the 1980’s and was occupied in its entirety by Pfizer as research life science facilities. Pfizer sold the building and lot to MITIMCo, who became our client in 2013.

Phase 1: Vivo was asked to prepare a Master Plan Analysis of the existing building to evaluate the pros and cons associated with converting a single owner-occupied life science use to either a multi-tenant life science occupancy, or multi-tenant office occupancy. Building layout and efficiencies, MEP systems, structural integrity, façade and roof integrity, zoning and permitted uses, existing tenant build-out conditions and lab layouts were evaluated against market trends, costs to renovate and reposition property in the market. Findings were presented in detailed report format and the development team reviewed and elected to pursue the multi-tenant life science approach.

Phase 2 Comprehensive Services: Full A&E Services to prepare Core & Shell renovations for multi-tenant Life Science occupancy, together with two (2) Spec Labs on the first floor for market-ready incubator tenants. These Spec Labs were 7,344 RSF & 6,412 RSF with combined labs and office space.

The Core & Shell design upgraded and updated the building to the current standards and expectations of the life sciences market. New, common tenant amenities include:  re-designed lobby, schedulable conference room, a multi-purpose cafeteria, new shower facilities, common waste storage, in addition to complete renovation of all existing restrooms. New common areas finishes, lighting, furnishings and artwork were carefully selected and edited to create a bright and energetic environment reflective of the cutting-edge science work to be performed within. The color scheme consists of a series of neutral and bright whites, enlivened by two saturated complementary colors that are repeated within all the public areas. Two large paintings were commissioned specifically for the lobby, further tying together all the visual elements of the project.

The Core & Shell design cleared all non-lab space off each floor, opening views from the core to daylight. The first floor created two (2) new half floor spec. labs utilizing as much of the existing build out as possible. The 2nd, 3rd and 4thfloor harvested as many existing labs as possible and removed all other build out so that prospective tenants could visualize the spaces. The 5th floor was a total gut. Vivo also provided Marketing Plans to support the needs of the brokers.

Wind and water testing was done to evaluate infiltration. Selected aluminum windows were replaced. Extensive re-gasketing, re-caulking and re-glazing was performed. There were repairs to the roof and masonry, as well as cleaning of the limestone. A new landscape plan will be implemented, new bike rack storage, building signage and monument signage for building identity.

The MEP/FP systems received significant maintenance and repair. Ventilation, airflow and exhaust were evaluated. The building was originally designed for ½ lab use and ½ office use, necessitating the evaluation of each tenant’s use.

It is anticipated that the Core and Shell renovation will receive LEED Silver or better.