Flexible Programming
S+P’s experience in laboratory design includes a major focus on the development of flexible programming. By providing clients with strategic, modular platforms for rapid customization, the facilities are able to adapt to the changing needs of research teams and to the movement of those teams into, out of or within the facility—without the need for a construction crew.
To deliver an optimized value per square foot, the designers programmed W B-24’s nanotech biology floors—previously mapped out and built for a limited, fixed mode of study by pharmaceutical researchers—for maximum flexibility and rapid adaptability. The team retrofitted the existing mechanical, electrical and plumbing infrastructure with plug-and-play “ceiling pods.” The ceiling pods are 2- by 2-foot panels that fit into a standard lay-in ceiling grid, serving as connection points for the plug-and-play utilities that feed the mobile benches. In this case, it was power, telephone and data, though pods like this can also have quick disconnects for plumbing, such as air and gas. Combined with flexible casework, rolling cabinets and other pre-engineered solutions, the renovated lab space provides quick turnaround times and accelerated move-in schedules for new teams. This strategy reduces vacancy rates and construction costs, as well as lets current teams adapt on-the-fly when they decide to shift modes of study.
In addition, the new programming relocated private offices away from the perimeter in favor of research space, conference rooms and break rooms. Combined with replacement of solid walls with glass partitions, the design allows sunlight to penetrate 100 percent of common spaces, bringing the benefits of natural daylighting to a majority of the nanotech lab’s occupants.
Although the electric lighting is not tied into daylight-harvesting sensors, it is connected to occupancy sensors linked to the building’s energy-management system. This allows occupancy of a row of benches to activate lighting for that row. HVAC is also ramped up only when occupancy is detected. LED task lights at benches are also on occupancy sensors.
An Enjoyable Space
Furthermore, S+P undertook this renovation challenge from the perspective of an overarching philosophy toward laboratory design, which views a laboratory as a “home for research.” This model fortifies research science by supporting the scientists. Principal investigators (PIs) and their staff will typically spend extended periods of time in their workplace, so working in a comfortable, healthful research facility that includes space for reflection, cross-disciplinary interaction and collaboration is important. It also has been found to accelerate the process of achieving breakthrough-level advances.
The S+P team exploited every opportunity to transform what had been a modestly effective but industrial-looking and unwelcoming laboratory facility into a place about which PIs could brag. The elements considered for this strategy began with opportunities for exemplary sustainable design.
The glass partitions mentioned earlier became an important part of this strategy because natural daylighting is considered desirable by nearly every stakeholder. Properly managed, daylighting can reduce costs associated with lighting and heating power loads without adding to cooling loads, and studies show natural light improves occupant health, productivity and morale, as well as reduces absenteeism.
In the case of W B-24, some glass elements are fritted in a configuration that suggests biological or molecular patterns. This artful touch, a signature element of S+P’s architectural designs, lends a sense of prestige and permanence to the nanotech lab. The ample daylight passes through spaces furnished with wood finishes and grains in the surfaces, casework and floors. These elements, combined with brightly colored walls and nature-inspired textiles create a comfortable and amiable atmosphere.
The design also carves out glass alcoves and work carrels on the perimeter, formerly the location mainly of private offices. The exterior views of the naturally picturesque grounds enjoyed from the perimeter work and meeting spaces, as well as the daylight that reaches research space and generic support zones deeper within the floor plate, help keep the research staff energized and primed for their investigations. Other amenities, such as ergonomic furnishings and breakout spaces, also contribute to a healthy, happy occupant population.