Wichita Biomedical Campus Takes Shape: An Inside Look at the Construction Progress
By Chun Liu
Construction at the Wichita Biomedical Campus continues to progress steadily, with the structure now emerging as a prominent addition to Wichita’s downtown skyline. The project will support health sciences education, research and collaboration across its partner institutions – Wichita State University, WSU Tech and University of Kansas Medical Center. Over the winter months, efforts focused on enclosing the building and advancing interior construction, allowing work to continue efficiently despite seasonal conditions.
The exterior is quickly taking shape, with curtain wall and punch window installation now largely complete. Along the west facade, ultra-high-performance concrete shingles and metal panels have begun to define the building’s character, now covering roughly a third of the elevation. This layered composition introduces a rich texture and a sense of movement, giving the tower a dynamic presence and adding depth and rhythm to its overall design.
Glass installation is actively underway as the roof approaches completion, bringing the building’s upper profile into sharper focus. A metal-framed overhanging “eyebrow” eave defines the roofline, highlighting this distinctive architectural feature and adding a bold, sculptural element to the overall design.
Meanwhile, the terrace connecting Levels 3 and 4 is emerging with its concrete bleacher seating now in place, and exterior stairs poured. The terrace will establish both a functional circulation route and an inviting gathering space that links program areas while opening up views across the campus.
Inside the Wichita Biomedical Campus, the steel structure of the monumental stair and the framing of the terracotta feature wall are beginning to define the pavilion’s signature experience, establishing a strong vertical and visual connection throughout the building. At the same time, most above-ceiling systems are now in place, as the upper levels continue progressing through finishing and rough-in stages.
Levels 3 through 8 continue to make steady progress across multiple phases of construction. Upper floors remain in the framing and rough-in stages, with door frame installation ongoing, while penthouse MEP systems advance. The service elevator is now fully operational, providing vertical circulation from the first floor to the penthouse. Our team is excited to see the project taking shape, as layers of texture and light begin to define the building’s character. The Wichita Biomedical Campus is well on its way to becoming an architectural landmark in downtown Wichita and remains on track to welcome its first students in summer 2027.
