Columbus Center of Marine Biotechnology

Awe-inspiring spaces under canvas and glass.

The Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology (IMET) is a research institute jointly operated by the University System of Maryland. Formerly the University of Maryland Baltimore’s Columbus Center of Marine Biotechnology, IMET leverages the research, training, and technology transfer capabilities of its partner institutes to further its mission, building upon the resources and expertise of the former Center of Marine Biotechnology.

Situated in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, between Piers 5 and 6, IMET features exhibits that offer visitors insights into the wide array of research activities taking place within its premises. Designed as the “Smithsonian of the Seas”, the building houses marine biology laboratories, research facilities for aquaculture and marine archaeology, as well as spaces dedicated to marine environmental study, microbial and extremophile biotechnologies, functional genomics, and a multi-level exhibition center.

PRIME AE assumed full responsibility for developing comprehensive construction specifications for the project. This involved integrating all science laboratory furniture and casework, fume hoods, cold rooms, dark rooms, prep rooms, and mission critical equipment controls. They also conducted thorough analysis and documentation to adhere to compliance with building codes, ADA accessibility regulations, and life safety codes.

Client / Owner

Zeidler Roberts Partnership

Key Features

Key Feature

Research Laboratories

Administrative Offices

Auditorium

Multiple Exhibition Spaces

Structured Underground Parking for 400 Passenger Cars

Architecture Services ProvidedArchitecture Design Building Envelope Interior Design

Project Achievements

Every project we undertake serves as a wellspring of knowledge and experience, feeding our collective growth and paving the way to optimize outcomes, leverage efficiencies, foster collaboration, and advance innovation. Throughout the journey of this project, these accomplishments have been instrumental in its overall success and have fortified our collective expertise.

Canvas fabric was pretensioned to effectively resist forces
Though this project was a single, large, institutional project, the facility required in-depth knowledge of the ADA, code, and fire safety requirements.