Takeda has signed a 15-year lease with BioMed Realty for approximately 600,000 square feet of research and development (R&D) and office space to be built at 585 Third Street in Kendall Square. The state-of-the-art facility will allow Takeda, the largest life sciences employer in Massachusetts, to create a purpose-built R&D facility with laboratories of the future featuring modern design elements and upgraded technology to support the company in its efforts to advance innovation for patients.

The new facility will support Takeda’s efforts to redefine the future of work by adopting flexible workspaces to maximize in-person interaction and connection under a flexible and hybrid working model. The company will also expand its existing space in 650 East Kendall to include two additional floors, making Takeda the sole laboratory and office tenant in that building.

The agreement with BioMed Realty further expands Takeda’s presence in Kendall Square, a hub for life sciences, and is part of the company’s long-term strategy to create one Cambridge campus in Kendall Square, unifying Takeda’s Global R&D center in Cambridge and co-locating R&D with businesses and other operations. Takeda will eventually transition teams from Central Square to Kendall Square over time. Takeda will maintain a presence in Lexington as its suburban location.

“Takeda’s purpose to achieve ‘better health for people, a brighter future for the world’ is embedded into all of our decision-making, including real estate. We were intentional in selecting 585 Third Street as this building will offer us close proximity to top life sciences talent while enabling us to further enhance office collaboration and R&D space to support scientific discovery for patients worldwide,” said Julie Kim, president of the U.S. business unit and U.S. country head. “Our goal is to build an enriching and inclusive workspace that will inspire, foster learning and innovation, harness data and digital technologies and emphasize well-being.”

The new building is designed with sustainability in mind and will pursue LEED Gold or higher certification. And, as part of this innovative project, Takeda and BioMed Realty have identified shared goals and commitments around occupant wellness, energy and water efficiency, and reduced waste to landfills. Moving to 585 Third Street and expanding the presence in Kendall Square will help Takeda achieve its ambitious environmental goals including net-zero greenhouse gas emissions for scopes 1 and 2 before 2035, and for its entire value chain, including currently estimated1 scope 3 GHG emissions, before 20402.

Takeda is committed to ensuring its footprint in Massachusetts reflects its ways of working with a focus on fostering sustainability, harnessing innovation and offering the best people experience while also creating cost efficiencies. Over the past several years, the company has been deepening its presence in Kendall Square. Construction of 585 Third Street is scheduled to begin in 2023 and Takeda plans to occupy the building starting in 2026. Takeda will ensure lab continuity and minimal disruption throughout the space planning and construction process.