Large Lakes Observatory

The University of Minnesota Duluth is seeking design services for the Large Lakes Observatory (LLO) project, which includes constructing a new research lab facility on campus and a waterfront operations facility to support field research vessels. The project aims to provide a permanent home for field research vessels at Lake Superior and support research activities in a portside building with high bay spaces. The selected designer will be responsible for providing all services and deliverables necessary to complete the project, including predesign, schematic design, design development, construction documents, bidding, and construction administration. The project will be delivered via a Construction Manager at Risk (CM@R) method, and the designer will be required to follow the Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines (B3) and the Sustainable Building 2030 program. Key aspects of the project include: • Constructing a new ~60,000 GSF research lab facility on the UMD core campus • Creating a ~12,000 GSF waterfront operations facility to support the R/V Blue Heron • Providing contemporary analytical laboratory space on campus for integration with other College faculty and graduate students • Supporting public interest and education in freshwater and Lake Superior-related events • Ensuring compliance with the B3 and SB 2030 guidelines and requirements • Meeting the 10% Targeted Group/Economically Disadvantaged/Veteran-Owned subcontracting goal