Usona Institute is a non-profit medical research organization co-founded by the CEO of Promega that focuses on furthering “the scientific understanding and therapeutic application of consciousness-expanding medicines”, specifically in the treatment of challenging mental health conditions.
Located adjacent to the Promega campus, Usona Institute is the first facility of its kind, serving as a hub for research, education, and treatment. The main building includes spaces for researchers, team members, and participants, and the Usona campus also includes on-site guesthouses for visitors.
Administration Wing
The Administration Wing provides residential-style workspaces for on-site team members and a variety of state-of-the-art meeting, training, and education spaces to encourage collaboration and innovation among knowledge leaders and learners. The furniture strategy prioritized ergonomic furniture and biophilic design elements to complement the nature-inspired materials and artwork throughout the building. Atmosphere collaborated with the Usona team and Ramlow/Stein to develop new modular workstations with unique ancillary solutions that promote flexibility within this mixed-use environment.
Therapy Wing
The tranquil spaces within the Therapy Wing support a diverse range of experiences for visitors – from sound, light, and nature therapy to hydrotherapy and group therapy. To support the wellness journey, Atmosphere provided furniture solutions for outdoor wellness spaces, including the sun deck, outdoor patios, lounges, and changing rooms.
“Atmosphere’s collaborative approach really elevated the entire design and execution of the Owner’s vision. Atmosphere brought innovative solutions to the table from new workspace systems to unique ancillary choices. Atmosphere went above and beyond with coordinating trips to manufacturer showrooms and workshopping for product and finish selections. Every request from our design team and the Owner was met with timeliness and thoroughness.”
– Rebecca Rodriguez, Senior Interior Designer, Ramlow/Stein
As a long-term partner of Promega and Ramlow/Stein, Atmosphere has a strong existing relationship with the project stakeholders, but Usona Institute offered an opportunity to bring new, creative furniture solutions for a truly innovative environment. The design process included workshops and work sessions with the Owner, sit-tests for all recommended products, and visits to manufacturers. Much of the project process took place during the pandemic, so product availability, timing, and delivery had to be carefully planned. The result is a beautiful, harmonious campus with facilities that support the Usona Institute mission and those who utilize the spaces.
Photographer: Tricia Shay Photography
Architect: Ramlow/Stein
GC: Kraemer Brothers
