The building has a variety of complimentary materials as well as introducing significant amounts of natural light throughout the building.  Research at the LIRC focuses on health, wellness and fitness, including evaluation of lifestyle modification and its impact on health and aging.  Other studies will be devoted to the effect of ergonomics and work-related health issues to assess cost implications for employers and insurers.  The effectiveness of alternative and complementary therapies and the development of new technologies for assisting and retraining the physically challenged are further examples of the types of research conducted at the center.