Wichita Biomedical Campus

Wichita State University, the University of Kansas Medical Center, and WSU Tech are coming together to create the region’s most innovative and interdisciplinary health education center in downtown Wichita. The Wichita Biomedical Campus is the first phase of the joint health sciences project, a catalyst not only for the redevelopment of downtown but for medical education and innovation in the broader region. Helix Architecture + Design and CO Architects have partnered once again to bring together multiple institutions and strengthen outreach to the community by sharing space with various programs and services.

Location: Wichita, KS
Size: 350,000 SF
Status: Under construction

Inspired by a unique sense of place, the design team took cues from the surrounding landscape of the Flint Hills. The stair-step landscape was formed through a geological process called differential erosion. Within the stair-stepping of the WBC, there are hidden gems like the flint deposits found within the local landscape — lounges, areas of community, and exterior patios providing breathtaking views of the city.

Rooted in the idea of finding solace and belonging, WSU and KUMC believes that the journey towards knowledge and discovery is as significant as reaching one’s destination. With this ethos in mind, this multidisciplinary building serves as a sanctuary for students across various disciplines, offering them the space and resources to carve out their unique pathways home. Whether it’s through innovative research, collaborative projects, or transformative learning experiences, the WBC is dedicated to fostering a sense of familiarity, community, and purpose for all who enter its doors.

The site selection ensured that the WBC is not just a destination for learning, but a vibrant hub at the heart of downtown Wichita. The project has already sparked other opportunities for local community groups and private development.