UW I-LABS

The Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences (I-LABS) at the University of Washington's Seattle campus is the nexus of 21st century research on the science of early learning. Its research focuses on brain development during the first five years of life, the only facility of its kind in the world.

SHKS was hired to design a “Brain Studio” within a former auditorium to showcase the Institute's innovative research.

Adding a mezzanine transformed the auditorium volume into a workplace with offices, conference facilities, and informal gathering space, allowing spectators to participate in presentations below.

A “Brain Theater” is at the center of activity where researchers co-register brain data on large-scale video monitors.

A Science Overlook on the mezzanine provides a place for visitors to view this exciting, ongoing research.

A digitally enabled conference space is acoustically separate from the "Brain Theater".

Openings in the shell are lined with wood to warm the light within the space as well as provide daylight and frame views of the sky, landscaped yard, and the building's forecourt.