1165 - Anna-Marie and Stephen Kellen Building for Research

In a city filled with unforgettable art sculptures and installations, one of the largest works of art is in fact a building, and a very special one at that. The Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Building for Research embodies a bold vision for the future of biomedical research, a vision that matches its striking exterior. 178,000 square feet fill the eleven-story building, which also includes subway connectors tying it to other Mayo Clinic facilities.

Inspired by the dynamic nature of scientific discovery, the undulating façade features a metal panel scrim that creates a distinct landmark in the city of Rochester. If you look closely at the metal scrimwork, you will even notice the iconic three shield brand of Mayo Clinic, aligned to share their mission of research, clinical practice, and education. The glass exterior consists of nearly 1,000 panels covering 60,000 square feet of one-inch insulated glass. With each panel weighing over 600 pounds, this was no small engineering feat! Inside, open, light-filled spaces encourage collaboration and innovation. The building was designed and constructed to use thirty percent less energy than comparable buildings and used risk-based zoning techniques to enhance safety.

A major financial gift from the Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Foundation coupled with other generous benefactors ensured the construction of this marvelous medical facility. Originally, the building was slated to have only 4-stories, but the global pandemic of 2020 demonstrated an undeniable need for medical advancements and scientific research spaces, so the building height was nearly tripled. Work began in the summer of 2021 and was completed two years later. It’s home to research facilities that address serious and complex conditions, with a focus on discoveries in cancer research and neurosciences. Beyond advancing research, this unique and unforgettable building symbolizes hope and progress, reflecting a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and transformative outcomes.