Michael Degroote Centre for Learning & Discovery (MDCL) – 2nd Floor

This project involved the interior fit-up of approximately 50,000 sq. ft. of new office space, teaching laboratories, and a Bio-Safety Level 2 facility. Work included the installation of specialized equipment such as autoclaves, a cold room, and a Beckman robotic unit.

The scope also encompassed the construction of a new suspended tunnel link, exterior tank enclosure, and penthouse renovations. Existing shelled space on the second floor was transformed into state-of-the-art laboratories, offices, and classrooms for five key occupants: the Centre for Microbial Chemical Biology, Chemical Biology/Biochemistry, the Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, Education Services, and the Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research.

Mechanical, electrical, and building automation systems were fully installed, with infrastructure located in the penthouse and distributed throughout the second floor to support laboratory, institutional, administrative, and teaching functions. The project also included construction of a new second-floor bridge connecting the MDCL Building to the McMaster Health Sciences Centre. Ira McDonald Construction was able to successfully construct the project approximately $2 million under budget and ten weeks ahead of schedule.  The initial phase of construction coincided with the summer break while construction completion coincided with the start of the school year.