Inside the Build: Rutgers University School of Medicine

By Simin Chu

As the new Rutgers School of Medicine takes shape, we are excited to share comparisons of site photos and design renderings to show the behind-the-scenes of how a project of this scale comes together. Spanning four floors within the H-1 Building at HELIX, a mixed-use complex in New Brunswick, New Jersey, the project relocates and consolidates all medical school programs into a unified location. This project is in collaboration with Elkus Manfredi.

The VESSEL

At the heart of the building is the “VESSEL,” the project’s primary architectural feature. Located just steps from the New Brunswick train station, this large curved wood structure immediately draws the eye— day or night. The medical school sits at the center of the building, framed by a transparent glass facade that reveals activity inside. Rising through four levels, the VESSEL visually connects the school's spaces while creating a striking focal point.

At a closer distance, the VESSEL reveals its rich material detail. Natural wood textures and fluted patterns follow the gentle curves of the structure, bringing warmth and visual depth to the space. Glass openings woven into the wood introduce daylight and create a compelling contrast between solid and void.

The Forum

Stepping out of the elevator lobby, visitors arrive at the Forum, a large open gathering space. Warm wooden steps form an inviting place to sit, gather and present — supporting both formal events and informal interaction. Overhead, a metal ceiling with a subtle star-like pattern draws the eye upward and enhances the feeling of openness within the space.

400-Person Classroom

Adjacent to the Forum is a 400-seat classroom that continues the same material palette and design language as the Forum space. A vertical operable partition allows the room to be split into two classrooms for flexibility. The red carpet introduces the school’s signature color into the warm wood interior, creating a vibrant accent while reinforcing the school’s branding.

Medical Training Spaces

The core spaces for hands-on medical training—the Gross Anatomy Lab and Simulation Deck — are located on the building’s “Superfloor.” By placing these environments on the same level, the design supports an integrated learning experience, allowing students to move easily between anatomy study, simulation exercises, and clinical training within the same session. The spaces are designed to reflect real medical environments, with layouts and equipment that prepare students for the settings they will encounter in practice.

We look forward to sharing more updates as the School of Medicine approaches completion! Learn more about the project here.