In its elegant, welcoming design, the world’s largest freestanding comprehensive breast center recognizes that cancer is a personal and often private disease. Working closely with MSK clinicians, this healing community set a new standard for the design of cancer care centers.

The massing of the building’s exterior takes cues from the experiences at the interior and respond to New York City zoning requirements. The resultant form highlights the stacked program—clinical floors, academic offices, and administration—while the building entrance is shifted to create a welcoming garden with a through-block driveway, providing privacy, security, and comfort.

Meticulous interior programming allows for the most up-to-date breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and outpatient treatment and support all under one roof—recognizing breast cancer as a treatable and often curable disease while prioritizing patient privacy and convenience. Abundant daylight, amenities for patients and families, areas of respite, and serene interiors featuring a soothing palette, natural design elements, and curated art program featuring more than 450 artworks, create an atmosphere that seeks to reduce stress and anxiety associated with repetitive treatments.

In addition to the Evelyn H. Lauder Breast Center, the building houses the MSKCC Imaging Center, which includes two floors of the most advanced diagnostic imaging and treatment planning services for breast and a range of other cancers.