The MIT/Caltech joint venture Laser Interferometer Observatory required a new office, laboratory, and lecture building to relocate functions that were causing interference within the interferometer’s corner station.

 

The project was designed around three distinct programs, each expressing its own identity through specific materials while converging to form a central lobby and pre-function space. These material choices reflect the sensitive nature of the interferometer equipment while adhering to a strict budget.

 

The project was highly successful from a fiscal standpoint. With a budget of $2,500,000, the project received a winning bid of $2,465,000—representing a narrow 1% bid spread among four bidders. Furthermore, construction was completed with no change orders.