Vivo Architecture is proud to lead the design to build CFS’s global headquarters and manufacturing facility in the ‘Devens Biotech Campus’, Devens, MA (also designed by VIVO). The combined office/manufacturing facility reinforces the seamless integration of research and development work with applied technologies of manufacturing and industrial production.  Here, the complex state-of-the-art equipment that will be incorporated in the future commercial power stations will be produced, such as the large-scale industrial magnets essential for the operation of the fusion engine.

“It’s a one-of-a-kind project with unique challenges posed mainly by the specialized equipment used. For example, a colossal overhead crane system is required to move the oversized magnets through the production line,” shares VIVO partner in-charge Mathew O’Brien, RA. “Creating an appropriate layout has been a multifaceted task because of the complex nature of their operation and the size of the magnets to be produced, with diameters ranging from 14.5 feet to 20 feet”, adds Senior Project Architect Peter Stefanini, RA, an expert in designing multifarious production facilities across the US, and internationally.

Working closely with CFS’ team of scientists, technical specialists, and senior management, the VIVO team has applied their expertise and creativity to bring alive their client’s visions about an environment that embodies the vitality and inventive nature of their work culture and talks lucidly about CFS’ scientific objectives. The building comprises an area of approximately 164,000 SF with 108,000 SF allocated for high-bay industrial use, and 56,000 SF slated for corporate office use. The building is arranged in a sideways ‘L’ configuration, with the 2-story office block running east-to-west, and the manufacturing block, oriented north-south. Both functions share a wall that allows views from the office floors directly into the manufacturing floor. The office block is an elongated rectangle, that allows natural light to travel deep into the space and is anchored at one end by the reception and board room-executive suite and by a large break room and commercial kitchen facility at the other. In between, the open office area is kept with minimum interruptions to enhance the collaborative nature of the company. Internal windows into the manufacturing floor allow the CFS team to show investors and guests the company operations directly from the office area. The manufacturing facility was developed using a structural module that would allow the large equipment and machinery to operate efficiently and ramp up production when needed.

“Most importantly, it has been an honor to be a part of their project and receive important insights into their scientific mission,” concludes O’Brien. The project, currently under construction, will be ready for occupancy and operation by September 2022.