For 75 years, Kitchell has been at the forefront of delivering complex, high-performance facilities that push the boundaries of innovation. The Grand Challenges Research Building (GCRB) at the University of Arizona is a testament to this legacy, bringing together world-class researchers in quantum computing, optics, and materials science under one roof.

As the design-builder, Kitchell collaborated with ZGF Architects and BWS Architects to construct a cutting-edge facility that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration. The building’s cast-in-place concrete structure ensures the stability required for highly sensitive experiments, while modular lab spaces provide the flexibility to support evolving research needs. Designed for both function and connectivity, the GCRB features communal areas that enhance teamwork and state-of-the-art mechanical systems that maintain precise environmental conditions, even in Arizona’s extreme climate.

Sustainability is a key focus, with all-electric systems and energy-efficient infrastructure aligning with the university’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. The GCRB is more than just a building—it’s a hub for discovery, a space where breakthroughs happen, and a reflection of Kitchell’s unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence in construction.

Read more about this transformative project: Lab Design News