BDP designs cell-inspired pharmaceutical research campus in Shanghai
Interconnected buildings mimic cell division for flexible lab spaces and staff wellbeing
1Cell-inspired architectural concept
BDP's design for CTTQ Pharmaceutical's Shanghai campus draws direct inspiration from cell biology, with two pairs of interconnected buildings resembling dividing cells. Glass-covered bridges visually and physically connect these structures, creating a cohesive 186,000 sqm research complex. The biomorphic design extends to functional layouts, with building cores positioned at either end to create flexible laboratory floorplates that can adapt to changing research needs. This approach merges scientific symbolism with practical workspace design.
2Strategic building configuration
The campus features four distinct but interconnected structures: two primary research buildings, a staff accommodation block, and a taller administrative tower serving as the visual focal point. A conference center attaches to the administrative building, while a first-floor sky bridge system links all facilities. This arrangement strategically separates different functions while maintaining physical connectivity. The design intentionally varies building heights and purposes to create a dynamic campus environment that balances research needs with human-scale spaces.
3Public integration philosophy
Breaking from traditional isolated research compounds, BDP's design integrates public spaces throughout the campus. A central park surrounded by the buildings remains open to the public, while ground-level amenities including cafes and a gym promote interaction. Director Tianyi Gu emphasized creating a research environment that engages with the city rather than turning inward. This approach reflects contemporary trends in scientific workplace design that value community connection and urban context.
4Human-centric workspace design
The campus prioritizes staff wellbeing through carefully planned circulation and amenities. The curved sky bridge connects buildings while creating indoor and outdoor meeting spaces. Daylight access, natural ventilation, and areas for dining and exercise were all carefully considered. BDP focused on elements that impact daily work experience, moving beyond pure functionality to create spaces that support collaboration, breaks from lab work, and work-life balance - crucial for research staff working long hours.
5Sustainable performance features
Passive design strategies significantly reduce the campus' environmental impact. Customized facade designs respond to different solar orientations, with solar shading and Low-E glass improving energy efficiency. A large photovoltaic array on the roofs generates renewable energy while creating a distinctive visual pattern. These sustainable elements combine with the biomorphic architecture to create a strong visual identity for the campus while meeting practical performance requirements.
6Contextual Shanghai connection
Beyond biological inspiration, the design establishes a deliberate connection to Shanghai's urban context. The administrative tower's prominence creates a visual landmark, while the overall layout references the city's density and connectivity. Gu emphasized creating a strong local identity for the campus rather than a generic research facility. This approach mirrors other recent Shanghai projects like RSHP's laneway-inspired skyscraper, showing how global firms are responding to Shanghai's unique urban character.
7Pharmaceutical industry implications
CTTQ's investment in this innovative campus reflects the pharmaceutical sector's evolving workplace needs. The design accommodates changing laboratory requirements through flexible floorplates while addressing talent retention challenges through wellbeing-focused amenities. As Chinese pharma companies compete globally for research talent, such facilities serve both practical and symbolic purposes - demonstrating scientific ambition while creating attractive work environments that may help recruit and retain top researchers.
8Future-forward research environment
BDP's design anticipates the future of pharmaceutical research workspaces, blending scientific functionality with human-centered design. The campus balances controlled laboratory environments with social and collaborative spaces, recognizing that breakthrough research requires both. Its sustainable features and adaptability position CTTQ for long-term use, while the distinctive architectural identity supports corporate branding in China's competitive healthcare sector. The project sets a benchmark for integrating research facilities into urban contexts without sacrificing functionality or security.