2025 Southwest Best Projects
Award of Merit, Higher Education/Research: Mayo Clinic Integrated Education and Research Building
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Mayo Clinic Integrated Education and Research Building
Phoenix
Award of Merit
Submitted by DPR Construction
Owner Mayo Clinic
Lead Design Firm DFDG Architecture
General Contractor DPR Construction
Civil Engineer Kimley-Horn
Structural Engineer Meyer Borgman Johnson
MEP Engineer DHE
This 150,000-sq-ft building exemplifies the Mayo Clinic’s dedication to medical innovation, research and education. Features of the $95-million facility include approximately 20 adaptable wet research laboratories, 11 technology-enhanced classrooms, six simulation examination rooms, an advanced imaging suite and many other amenities.
Facing a regional skilled labor shortage driven by megaprojects in the Phoenix area, the contractor continually worked with trade partners to anticipate workforce needs. The schedule was strategically worker-loaded to smooth out labor fluctuations, minimizing spikes and dips. With spatial constraints complicating installation of fire barriers between sections of vertical ductwork, the team collaborated to develop a unique, project-specific fireproofing detail that met code requirements and ensured a quality installation.
Technology played a key role in advancing the project, with laser scanning used to ensure precise floor penetrations and structural embeds. A robotic field printer marked layout lines directly from the BIM model, cutting wall layout time by 80%. Innovative systems also delivered a more sustainable and efficient building. The use of deionized water in an adiabatic humidification system reduced reliance on steam and eliminated mineral contaminants. The team extended this approach beyond lab use to provide building-wide humidity control, minimizing the need for a steam generator and conserving energy and water.
