Salk Institute

The Salk Institute for Biological Studies in La Jolla (USA) was founded in 1960 by Jonas Salk, the developer of the polio vaccine. Here, diverse researchers from all over the world were to meet in an inspiring environment to conduct research for the benefit of mankind. Louis Kahn translated this task in 1962 into a strictly symmetrical two-winged complex around a central courtyard that opens towards the Pacific Ocean. Upon entering the building ensemble, one is immediately struck by the almost monastic concentration. The courtyard serves as a large open-air meeting space for researchers. The watercourse points the view to the large pool, which forms the natural transition to the expanse of the Pacific Ocean.