"This move reflects our confidence in the future of Genzyme,"CEO Henri A. Termeer said in making the announcement, adding thatthe new headquarters "is an exciting milestone for Genzyme as weapproach our 20th anniversary next year." Designed by the Germanarchitectural firm Behnisch, Behnisch & Partner, the 12-storybuilding is slated for completion in early 2003, with TurnerConstruction Co. selected as general contractor.

Genzyme, which also has a major manufacturing plant across theriver in Boston's Allston neighborhood, has been searching for anew headquarters for nearly a decade. Currently housed at OneKendall Square, the biotech giant finally settled on CambridgeResearch Park, a 1.2 million-sf master-planned complex beingdeveloped by Lyme Properties.

The $400-million park will also feature 250 apartments, a hotel,retail space and 2,000 parking spaces. It is located on a formergas plant operated by Commonwealth Energy.