Reimagining a Legacy of Lifesaving Research: Renovation Complete at UK’s Sanders-Brown Center on Aging
Omni Architects is honored to celebrate the grand reopening of the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging (SBCoA) at the University of Kentucky, following the completion of a transformative renovation that breathes new life into one of the university’s most respected and impactful research institutions.
As the SBCoA marks its 40th anniversary, the newly renovated facility reaffirms its role as a national leader in brain health and aging research. The building is home to the UK Alzheimer’s Disease Center (UK-ADC)—one of the most well-funded and prestigious centers on campus—and plays a vital role in advancing research, education, outreach, and clinical programs that serve the Commonwealth and beyond.
Omni Architects has been proud to support that mission through the comprehensive renovation and exterior envelope replacement of the building. Originally constructed in two distinct phases—an initial structure in 1979 and a later addition in 1998—the facility lacked visual cohesion and fell short of reflecting the excellence of the research happening within. Omni’s design unifies the building’s appearance through a complete exterior transformation, replacing outdated materials with a contemporary skin that not only enhances aesthetics but also improves energy performance and interior daylighting.
The journey to this milestone began in 2021 with a detailed feasibility study, commissioned to evaluate and plan a renovation of the original 1976 building’s first, second, and third floors. Working closely with UK and Sanders-Brown leadership, Omni conducted a thorough programming process that defined not just spatial requirements, but also the intangible goals of the renovation: to create a facility that embodies the innovation, compassion, and impact at the heart of SBCoA’s work.
Our team documented existing conditions, identified functional gaps, and developed a masterplan to bring the building into alignment with the center’s evolving needs. We worked hand-in-hand with researchers and administrators to understand the obstacles they faced—whether due to inefficient layouts, outdated infrastructure, or inadequate environmental conditions—and developed design strategies to overcome them.
The results are striking. Inside, once-dark and compartmentalized floors are now filled with natural light, thanks to new windows and interior glazing that promote occupant well-being. Outside, the cohesive new exterior offers a modern identity for the building—one that communicates the world-class research and care taking place within.
As Omni Architects celebrates our own 50th anniversary this year, we are deeply proud to contribute to the next chapter of the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging’s legacy. It has been a privilege to partner with the University of Kentucky on a project that not only enhances a vital facility, but also honors the life-changing work being done to improve the future of aging for all Kentuckians.