The University of Arizona’s Applied Research Building (ARB) in Tucson, AZ, designed by Smithgroup and built by McCarthy, is a one-of-a-kind facility advancing the future of discovery.

Bringing together eight university departments, the four-story, 89,000-square-foot building houses cutting-edge laboratories and advanced technologies supporting research in space exploration, advanced manufacturing, and imaging science. ARB positions the University as a leader in testing satellites, probes, and spacecraft technologies across both lower and upper atmospheric conditions.

Inspired by space science and the Sonoran Desert climate, the building’s design makes a bold statement. Its crinkled metal façade draws on the International Space Station's solar arrays, featuring textured vertical fins, a breathable rain screen, and integrated frit to reduce solar heat gain while responding thoughtfully to its environment.

© Wade Griffith Photography 2026

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