Addressing the university's critical need for modern laboratory space, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation–David Rockefeller River Campus incorporates 135,600 square feet of open-plan labs on two levels, while simultaneously extending the university's footprint by two acres and bringing the campus to the edge of the East River. Designed by Rafael Viñoly Architects, the structure's green rooftop connects to the existing campus landscaping.
Ground was broken on the SNF-DR River Campus project on December 11, 2015. Over the summer of 2016, a barge-mounted crane installed the building’s 19 prefabricated steel-and-concreate “modules,” some weighing more than 1.5 million pounds, above the FDR in a series of dramatic overnight lifts. The unique construction method allowed Turner to build above a busy highway with minimal disruption to traffic. The project features a landscaped roof and 160,000 square feet of space for laboratories, offices, and common areas.
The campus was formally opened at a dedication event in May 2019.
