Lab Design Conference Speaker Profile: Isabel Mandujano
Isabel Mandujano, RA, LEED AP BD+C, director of laboratory planning at LPA, Inc., will be speaking at the 2025 Lab Design Conference in Denver, CO. She and her colleagues Harshda Prasad, SE, LEED AP of LPA, Inc. and Mark Seidl of DPR Construction will present, “Busting the Myth of Adaptive Reuse: Structural Challenges for Diverse Building Types,” on May 13 at 10:30am.
This presentation will explore the structural challenges of adapting existing buildings for laboratory use, addressing key factors such as vibration control, mechanical system integration, and spatial constraints. It will compare common building types and debunk misconceptions about retrofitting strategies, providing a practical framework for setting effective design criteria. Additionally, innovative solutions will be discussed to optimize functionality, safety, and sustainability in adaptive reuse projects.
Lab Design News recently spoke with Isabel—a member of the publication’s editorial advisory board—about “soft skills” for lab design experts, top tips for optimizing a lab space without a lot of cost or downtime, and what you can expect from her Lab Design Conference presentation. Secure your spot at the conference so you don’t miss this session!
Q: How is your Lab Design Conference talk particularly relevant to today’s laboratory design landscape?
A: Today’s laboratory design has seen unprecedented expansion into new and emerging markets, where move-in ready laboratory real estate is not readily available as in the major biotech hubs.
Q: What are some key takeaways that attendees can expect from your session, and how can they apply these lessons to their own lab projects?
A: Adaptive reuse of facilities for research has been the solution to accommodate growth in these locations, but it comes with unique complexities. Our presentation will focus on challenges and opportunities of structural upgrades in different building typologies.
Q: What are your top tips for lab users to optimize their current lab space, without undergoing a new build or a major renovation?
A: Programming (or pre-design) studies are a helpful tool to identify goals and priorities, improve workflow, space utilization and promote highest and best use of available resources. Frequently we find that restack or reuse of underutilized space, change in furnishings and incorporating high density storage can be an effective way to achieve the project goals.
Q: What is one important “soft skill” that all lab design experts should have?
A: As every lab space is unique, I have found active listening is the most important skill for lab design. It is important to work collaboratively with end users to understand the process and issues we are trying to solve before putting pen to paper.
Q: What is your favorite aspect of the Lab Design Conference?
A: I look forward to reconnecting with peers, learning from others’ experiences and being inspired by solutions that I can readily apply to my next project.
Register today to secure your ticket!
