-By Stacy Straczynski

The new Brehm Tower at the W.K. Kellogg Eye Center Complex, University of Michigan Health System opened its doors earlier this week, allowing its eye care patients their first views of the $132 million facility.

The eight-story, 230,000-sq.-ft. tower, designed by Mass.-based KlingStubbins lies adjacent to the existing Kellogg Eye Center research tower and features seven eye care clinics equipped with suites for refractive and cosmetic surgery, laboratories for vision scientists, and the Brehm Center for Diabetes Research.

Inside, the tower boasts a modern, open design that takes its vision-impaired occupants into account. Large windows create plenty of natural light and generate a welcoming atmosphere to visitors. Additionally, a full wall of glass panels help to illuminate the space and provide optimal vision in the clinics and common spaces.

The design also lends itself to the building’s inherent educational and research goals. The clinics aim to teach patients, as well as “heal,” by incorporating areas for patient education, while the research laboratories, which are centrally located, encompass an open layout to foster collaboration and the sharing of ideas, data, and equipment.

“As designers for this exceptional opportunity, KlingStubbins was faced with numerous challenges. We had to integrate the significantly large expansion with the existing facility and make it feel unified. We had very diverse uses that required common organization for patients and researchers...We wanted to see [the Brehms'] vision realized to its full potential. We are extremely pleased with the way it has come together and for such a significant mission," says Roy Pedersen, principal and project director for KlingStubbins Cambridge office.

Facility leaders hope that the expansion will position UMHS to make headway in both ophthalmology and diabetes research. “This project has significantly expanded the Eye Center, allowing us to serve a rapidly growing and aging patient population and expand the critical mass of scientists needed to advance research aimed at preserving vision,” says Paul R. Lichter, M.D., chair of ophthalmology and visual sciences and director of the Kellogg Eye Center. “We often say that we can help patients one at a time in the clinic, but we can help the world in our labs. That’s what we will do in this new building.”

UMHS will host a “Dedicated to Discovery” ceremony on April 23, which will feature building tours, musical celebrations, researcher conferences, and an official dedication event.