Henrietta Lacks Building
Project Description
The Henrietta Lacks Building will honor the legacy of Henrietta Lacks, a Baltimore County woman whose cells, known as “HeLa” cells have advanced medicine around the world.
The new 33,600 square foot building will provide a new flexible space to support the multidisciplinary Berman Institute of Bioethics and complementary programs within the School of Medicine. It will feature seminar-style classrooms, meeting spaces, office and support spaces, as well as a flexible lecture hall capable of hosting events for up to 80 people.
The building’s design is being led by Vines Architecture along with Design Collective Inc, and construction is being led by local Baltimore construction firm Mahogany, in conjunction with Turner Construction Company. Together, they will continue to manage the project through to its completion.
Project Schedule
| Design Begins | Fall 2021 |
| Construction Begins | Fall 2024 |
| Construction Ends | Fall 2026 |
| Building Occupancy | Fall 2026 |
Projects Highlights
Projects Highlights
A Legacy Honored in Design: Inspired by the strength and spirit of Henrietta Lacks, the building’s design celebrates her profound influence on the history and future of East Baltimore
A Hub for Multidisciplinary Collaboration: This space will support innovative programs for the Berman Institute of Bioethics, School of Medicine, and other Johns Hopkins divisions
Empowering Community-driven Research: Designed to strengthen community partnerships, the building will host programs focused on inclusive research that directly benefits the community
Flexible spaces for Learning and Connection: With adaptable classrooms and public meeting spaces, the building will support diverse educational and research activities while also welcoming community engagement
Project Related Links
- The Legacy of Henrietta Lacks webpage (Johns Hopkins Medicine)
- Hub Articles
- Johns Hopkins to name research building in honor of Henrietta Lacks
- Architect selected for planning phase of campus building honoring Henrietta Lacks
- Johns Hopkins names design, construction firms for Henrietta Lacks Building
- Johns Hopkins presents initial design of building named in honor of Henrietta Lacks
- Johns Hopkins breaks ground on building named in honor of Henrietta Lacks