Architectural design is underway for the new, state-of-the-art biotech business incubator and research facility to be located at 1441 Canal Street. Ideally situated between the downtown medical district, the proposed LSU/VA hospitals, the CBD and the famed French Quarter, this 65,000 square foot facility is scheduled to open in late 2009. Located along bus, streetcar, interstate, and surface street corridors, this cornerstone of the New Orleans recovery will be easily accessible for tenants and visitors alike.

The mission of the BioInnovation Center is to provide support and guidance to emerging biotechnology companies commercializing technologies primarily derived from New Orleans-based Universities. Funded by the Louisiana Department of Economic Development, with additional support from the Economic Development Administration, the Center will provide tenants with wet lab and office space, as well as meeting and conferencing spaces. The Center will cater to a wide scope of companies, ranging from pre-startups and start-ups to maturing and expanding businesses. Some of the Center’s many benefits will include innovative programming, world-class facilities and networking opportunities with local, regional, and national firms.

Designed by Eskew+Dumez+Ripple of New Orleans, in collaboration with NBBJ of Seattle, WA, The architects have worked to develop a facility that will seamlessly connect the history of Canal Street with the emerging technology of the biosciences while respecting both the scale and fabric of its unique urban context. A 3,000 square foot interior courtyard will be visible from the Canal Street side through the Center’s transparent glass façade. The building’s glazing will be protected by operable sunscreens to limit energy costs, create more comfortable lighting for its occupants, and provide storm protection. Interior public amenities include a flexible 100-person conferencing center with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment; a 2,000 square foot retail/food service area open to Canal Street; and an interior atrium facing the courtyard, with public break areas at each level. Upper floor amenities include protected exterior balconies facing Canal Street, to provide occupants and visitors opportunities for interaction with the outdoors. The facility will also utilize sustainable “green” building technologies.