BioMed Realty Celebrates Major Milestone at 585 Kendall with Topping Off Ceremony
BioMed Realty, a leading provider of life science real estate 585 Kendall Development, in partnership with Suffolk Construction, Takeda, and Global Arts Live, celebrated a key moment in the development of 585 Kendall in Cambridge, Massachusetts, marking the completion of the steel topping off. The ceremony, which took place as the final beam was placed at the highest point of the building, highlighted the significant progress of the project, a mixed-use lab, office, and performing arts facility located in Kendall Square’s Canal District. The celebration also honored the hard work and dedication of the construction teams involved in bringing this transformative project closer to completion.
585 Kendall is an ambitious project designed to serve as a nexus for innovation, community engagement, and artistic expression. Strategically located in Cambridge’s vibrant innovation district, the development seamlessly integrates cutting-edge research and development facilities with cultural and community spaces. One of the standout features of the project is its 30,000-square-foot performing arts center, which is set to become a hub for creative and cultural events.
In addition to fostering artistic endeavors, 585 Kendall dedicates approximately 600,000 square feet to laboratory and office spaces, emphasizing its role as a cornerstone of the region’s biotechnology and life sciences ecosystem. A significant portion of this space will be occupied by Takeda, a global leader in biopharmaceuticals, which is establishing its new Global Research and Development (R&D) Center as the building’s anchor tenant. This move reinforces the area’s reputation as a premier destination for scientific innovation and collaboration.
The event marking this milestone brought together prominent stakeholders involved in the project. Key attendees included Sal Zinno, BioMed Realty Senior Vice President of Development, who highlighted the project’s vision and impact; Suffolk Construction Chairman and CEO John Fish, whose company contributed to the project’s realization; Julie Kim, President of Takeda’s U.S. Business Unit and U.S. Country Head, who emphasized the significance of the new R&D center; and state Senator Sal DiDomenico, who underscored the development’s importance to the local community and economy.
Through its blend of science, innovation, and culture, 585 Kendall sets a new benchmark for multi-use developments in Cambridge.
A Vision for Life Sciences and the Arts
The 585 Kendall development will not only address the growing demand for life science and technology spaces but also foster a unique blend of science and the arts in the heart of one of the world’s leading innovation hubs. The building’s performing arts center will feature a 400-seat performance space, flexible multipurpose rooms for meetings and workshops, and an indoor garden. Developed in partnership with Global Arts Live, this space aims to provide a much-needed venue for artists to rehearse, perform, and engage with the community.
Julie Kim, President of Takeda’s U.S. Business Unit, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for the project, noting that it exemplifies Takeda’s commitment to the Kendall Square community. The facility will prioritize environmental sustainability and is designed to meet LEED Gold standards or higher, with plans for additional healthy building certifications. Key features include energy-efficient systems, 100% renewable electricity, and biophilic design principles, which promote well-being and comfort for occupants.
“The innovative design prioritizes environmental sustainability while seamlessly creating a space where both science and art can flourish,” Kim stated.
A Collaborative Effort
Bill Kane, President of East Coast and U.K. markets at BioMed Realty, highlighted the collaborative effort between BioMed Realty, Takeda, Suffolk Construction, and Global Arts Live in realizing the vision for 585 Kendall. “The combination of unifying life sciences and a performing arts center at 585 Kendall has been an exciting development,” he said. “Today’s topping off ceremony is an opportunity to honor the hardworking, talented construction teams supporting this project, and is an exciting step towards completion of a truly one-of-a-kind, community-oriented mixed-use building.”
The project is a major milestone in BioMed Realty’s 585 Kendall Development ongoing mission to provide the infrastructure needed to support the life sciences industry while simultaneously contributing to the local community. As part of this commitment, BioMed Realty has been involved in ongoing community activations in the Canal District Kendall, including farmer and artist markets, outdoor activities such as ice skating and cornhole, and a summer concert series. These initiatives, made possible by BioMed Realty, aim to enhance the neighborhood and provide opportunities for residents and visitors to connect with one another.
Sustainability and Community Impact
BioMed Realty and Takeda’s partnership also extends to sustainability goals in the building’s design and operation. As part of the effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase energy efficiency, the building will incorporate green building techniques that align with the best practices for sustainability in the construction and life sciences sectors.
The performing arts center at 585 Kendall, developed in partnership with Global Arts Live, will offer a dynamic venue for artistic innovation and community engagement. Connie Chin, CEO of Global Arts Live, expressed her excitement about the project, noting that it would elevate the performing arts in 585 Kendall Developmentc Square and provide a vital space for artists to collaborate with audiences. “This state-of-the-art facility represents a transformative investment in Cambridge’s creative ecosystem, offering much-needed space for artistic innovation and community engagement,” she said.
The completion of the steel structure at 585 Kendall brings the project closer to its opening date, which is scheduled for 2026. Once complete, the building will serve as a vibrant, mixed-use space that integrates life sciences, technology, and culture, meeting the needs of both industry professionals and the surrounding community.
About BioMed Realty
BioMed Realty, a Blackstone portfolio company, is a leading provider of real estate solutions to the life science and technology industries. With over 16.3 million square feet of properties in key innovation markets across the U.S. and U.K., BioMed Realty is dedicated to fostering innovation and advancing scientific research through its real estate investments.
About Takeda
Takeda is a global biopharmaceutical company committed to improving the health and well-being of people worldwide. With a focus on gastrointestinal and inflammation, oncology, rare diseases, and neuroscience, Takeda is a leader in advancing the science behind life-changing therapies. Takeda operates in approximately 80 countries and regions, with a commitment to sustainability and patient-centered care.
About Global Arts Live
Global Arts Live is a nonprofit organization that brings exceptional music and dance from across the world to stages in greater Boston. With over 30 years of experience, Global Arts Live aims to connect communities through the arts and enrich the cultural landscape of Boston.
Read more: Major Milestone Reached in Sustainable 585 Kendall Development
