The CRISPR Therapeutics Boston office is a 263,000-square-foot, multi-story office and laboratory fit-out, whose space reinforces the mission of the gene editing company. The design team explored select removal of materials, emphasizing absence as a way to referencing the company’s research. Lighting designers enhanced the architect’s design, incorporating illuminated genome sequencing-inspired moments in unexpected ways. A custom DNA helices chandelier flows throughout the entire seven-story staircase creating a powerful visual connection between floors. The custom LED fixture, designed by lighting designers and executed by a custom manufacturer, required extensive spatial studies. In the amenity space, artistic grid-mounted LED lighting echoes the acronym, A, C, G, T, for the four types of bases found in a DNA molecule. The large-scale feature ties the space together while balancing the abundant daylight.

The short transitions between public-facing areas and research laboratories created ‘odd’ moments, challenging the lighting designers to create connections between distinctly different spaces. Clear and consistent lighting language used throughout created visual consistency and a sleek aesthetic aligned with the innovative nature of the company’s work.