When OHSU and the Knight Cancer Institute began planning their new research building, they knew Delta AV could take on the task of executing its cutting-edge audio-visual technology needs.
The Knight Cancer Institute is a world-class cancer treatment and research group that is part of Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) in Portland, Oregon. In 2018, the Institute opened the Knight Cancer Research Building to further the organization’s important work in cancer research and treatment.
The Knight Cancer Institute has established itself as a leader in early cancer detection as well as the development of targeted treatments that are improving care options and survival prognosis. Foremost in design considerations for the new research building was the prioritization of technology to assist scientists and researchers in their pioneering work, which includes robust audio and video conferencing equipment to facilitate multidisciplinary collaboration.
Delta was brought in to refine preliminary designs for critical audio-visual components including conference room communication technology, digital signage throughout the building, and the installation of two large LED screens, including the 52-foot “Discovery Wall” wrapping around the building’s southwest corner. Delta also provided construction coordination, commission of equipment, and AV integration services.
Delta engineers knew that the design needed to incorporate sophisticated equipment with straightforward controls for the end user. We believe that every design should incorporate ease of use.
Tiered Technology
At 320,000 square feet, the Knight Cancer Research Building is an impressive facility. Designed precisely to facilitate cross-disciplinary collaboration, education, and research, the building features numerous conference and meeting rooms, laboratories, and presentation spaces. To maximize usability and underscore the collaborative philosophy, room features were designed to be easily modified depending on the needs of the research team. Working within this design parameter, we had to ensure that audio/visual equipment and connectivity ports were easily accessible but would not hinder the flexibility of each space.
In total, Delta designed audio-visual equipment for more than 40 conference rooms and digital signage at 10 locations throughout the Research Building.
One of the biggest challenges the project presented was the management and implementation of specific needs of the Knight Cancer Institute that deviated from OHSU programming standards. Everything had to fit within the proper network parameters and frameworks to maintain compatibility with the greater OHSU campus, so we worked closely with representatives from both institutions to ensure that all needs were successfully met and abided by applicable bylaws.
Collaborative Success
Through more than 15 years of collaboration, OHSU knew they could rely on Delta to turn schematic plans into buildable construction documents with detailed equipment and technology design. By contributing to the 3D digital model of the building, we were able to work with the architect and other contractors to detect any issues with the locations of audio and visual equipment and ensure that HVAC, electrical, and other infrastructure were not impacted. We also worked closely with the architect to refine the auditorium design, trading a traditional rear-projection screen for a state-of-the-art direct-lit LED wall.
The success of this highly collaborative project underscores one of Delta’s greatest strengths: adapting a conceptual vision into a workable, well-designed deliverable that keeps the client’s needs in mind at all times. This was especially true with the Knight Cancer Institute project, where the Research Building’s researchers and scientists perform critically important and lifesaving work.
Delta’s meticulous effort was buoyed by the passion that the Knight Cancer Research Building staff demonstrated. “Their enthusiastic commitment to the success of this project was invigorating,” says Delta project manager Jeff Overbo.
