Identifying Innovation Catalysts and Transformative Life Sciences Trends in Laboratory Design

The US life science sector has undergone significant transformations over the past five years, as revealed by HLW and its workplace strategy division, Ark. A comprehensive study conducted by HLW/Ark highlights three pivotal trends driving innovation in lab spaces. Firstly, the shift from clinical to communal emphasizes the development of environments that foster collaboration and cross-functional thinking, transforming workplaces into vibrant community hubs. Secondly, the move from scattered to synergized integrates office and laboratory spaces, streamlining workflows through technological and AI advancements. Lastly, the transition from isolated to interactive spaces utilizes AI and machine learning to optimize research environments, accommodating both focused and collaborative work. These trends underscore a 50 percent expansion in US life science facilities since 2019, setting a benchmark for global markets and showcasing the sector's robust growth and dynamic evolution. 

Lab Design spoke with Robert Thomas, AIA, LEED, AP, NCARB, principal, director of life sciences at HLW; and Melissa Strickland, principal and managing director at HLW’s New Jersey office, about these trends. 

Robert Thomas, AIA, LEED, AP, NCARB

Q: What are some laboratory design features that encourage community and collaboration among researchers, especially those in different fields who might not otherwise connect? 

Robert Thomas (RT): Food brings people together, and having cafes or areas outside the lab where scientists can gather encourages impromptu interactions and collaboration. Creating designated spaces where scientists from different fields can meet and interact is crucial. The concept of 'moments in time'—dedicated collaboration spaces outside the lab—promotes interdisciplinary exchanges that might not happen otherwise. Even something as simple as a glass marker board outside the labs can serve as a focal point for communication and idea-sharing among researchers.

Melissa Strickland (MS): One of the key design features that encourage collaboration among researchers, especially those from different fields, is the co-location of labs and corporate functions in the same or adjacent buildings. This close proximity allows lab workers to interact more frequently with corporate staff, promoting better collaboration across the firm. Additionally, providing amenity-rich spaces like pantries, game rooms, and breakout areas with community tables and whiteboards is crucial in encouraging researchers to leave their labs, engage with colleagues, and facilitate informal meetings to brainstorm. 

Q: How does thoughtful laboratory design improve staff recruitment and retention rates? 

RT: Opening a lab up can make the space feel more inviting. Introducing glass into the labs has a twofold advantage. First, it's good for recruiting, because people can see into the labs without actually entering them, helping bring prospective staff into the space and showcasing specific equipment. For example, we're working with one client that brings groups through for tours, and another that uses a glass wall to allow glimpses into their proprietary tech suite, promoting community involvement by letting people see what's happening without needing to enter. Second, amenities within the building bring people together and keep them wanting to come to work. The lab environment can be demanding, so offering nice break spaces, such as ping pong tables and areas to discuss ideas, helps with staff retention.

Melissa Strickland

MS: A thoughtful laboratory design that is highly functional and tailored to the tasks at hand significantly improves staff recruitment and retention rates and enhances employees' work lives by making their daily tasks easier and more efficient. Designing labs to reflect the community, brand, and culture of the company helps employees feel connected to the core mission of the organization. For instance, in life science companies, showcasing the work being done within the facility allows staff to see the impact of their efforts, reinforcing their sense of purpose and commitment. Additionally, practical considerations like well-lit pathways and robust security measures ensure a safe and comfortable environment, contributing to employee satisfaction and loyalty. 

Q: What big changes are you seeing in modern lab/office spaces vs 10 years ago? How about 20-30 years ago? 

RT: One of the big changes in modern lab/office spaces compared to 10 years ago, and especially 20-30 years ago, is that casework is no longer fixed but is now movable, adaptable, and flexible. There's significantly more equipment in today's labs, with much of the traditional wet bench-top lab work now being done with new, advanced equipment. Computational science has become much more prevalent, replacing many functions of the wet labs that were heavily relied upon in the past. Additionally, equipment has become more energy-efficient, which reduces the heat generated in labs and helps with cooling. In the past, labs often faced issues with overheating due to excessive equipment. 

MS: In the last 10 to 20 years, we've seen significant changes in modern lab and office spaces. Both types of spaces have become more open and equitable, with a focus on ensuring everyone has access to natural light. This shift not only enhances the work environment but also promotes well-being and productivity among staff. Contemporary lab and office design emphasizes functionality and flexibility to accommodate future needs, ensuring that the spaces remain relevant and useful as technology and work practices evolve. 

Q: How are labs designed to accommodate future, unknown technology? What about advances in AI? 

RT: To accommodate future, unknown technology, labs are designed with common shafts and cores, making everything expandable since the future can’t be predicted. Robust servers are included that can be expanded as needed. Labs are designed as plug-and-play, with equipment zones featuring multiple power, data, and alarm points.  

Modern labs also leverage technology, with many systems controllable via smartphone, reducing the need for constant on-site monitoring. Advances in AI are integrated into computational labs, where AI is used for dark discovery and modeling. These simulations play a significant role in processes like drug discovery, which were traditionally done on wet benches. 

Q: What are some advantages to a smaller footprint for lab facilities? How does design play a role in decreasing a lab's footprint?  

RT: One advantage of a smaller footprint for lab facilities is the increased flexibility offered by open labs, which can be utilized as shared resources. This approach reduces the need to duplicate equipment, thereby minimizing the overall carbon footprint. Open labs can be used by general staff, while specific tasks can be accommodated in closed, shared labs. 

Efficient layout and design are also crucial in decreasing a lab's carbon footprint. Modular, movable casework is now standard in modern labs, with only fixed elements being those with attached plumbing. This adaptability not only saves costs but also contributes to a reduced environmental impact by minimizing waste and resource use. 

MS: Many companies are considering a smaller footprint for their lab facilities due to the rise of hybrid work environments—which can be advantageous as it can lead to reduced operational costs and more efficient use of space. Design plays a crucial role in this transition by ensuring that people can move effectively throughout the space. Incorporating flexible spaces is key, allowing companies to adapt and utilize areas as needed.