Key Considerations for Selecting the Right Architect for Lab Design Projects

Credit: OpenAI (2024)

When embarking on a laboratory design or renovation project, choosing the right architect is one of the most pivotal decisions you will make. In this article, experts Eddie Hall and Tammy Ng discuss some of the key points from their AIA-approved OnDemand webinar “Choosing the Right Architect.”

The architect's role goes beyond just drawing up plans—they help shape the success of your project by ensuring that the design meets your operational needs, adheres to budgetary constraints, and is completed on time. To help guide you through this critical choice, here are the key considerations you should keep in mind when selecting an architect for your lab design project.

Effective Lab Design Starts with Selecting the Right Architect

1. Effective Communication

Communication is the cornerstone of a successful partnership between a client and an architect. As discussed in the recent webinar on lab design, communication begins at the very first interaction, often through the Request for Proposal (RFP) process. The clarity and responsiveness of an architect in addressing the RFP can set the tone for the entire project. A lack of clear communication at this stage can be a red flag.

As Eddie Hall, a senior project architect, emphasized, “If you got a generic proposal…that’s a sign of poor communication already.” The architect must demonstrate a clear understanding of your project’s needs and articulate how they plan to meet those needs through the design process.

2. Qualifications and Experience

An architect's qualifications and experience in lab design are critical factors to consider. Not all architects are equipped to handle the unique challenges that come with designing laboratory spaces, which often require specialized knowledge in areas such as bio-safety, ventilation, and laboratory workflows.

Tammy Ng, a project manager with extensive experience in lab projects, notes that “every project is going to be unique and different…there are opportunities for innovative design because of those unique conditions.” Therefore, it’s essential to evaluate whether the architect has a strong portfolio of similar projects and a proven track record in delivering successful lab designs.

3. Budget Considerations

Budget management is a crucial aspect of any lab design project. It's important to align expectations with financial realities early in the process. Eddie Hall discussed the importance of setting clear budget expectations with stakeholders upfront to avoid ambiguities later on. He advised that “architects or third-party consultants, and even at times, bringing in a general contractor as an advisor can help understand what the current market conditions are.”

Moreover, it's not just about the initial costs but also about considering the life cycle costs of the lab. Architects should be able to provide insights into cost-saving opportunities through value engineering without compromising the quality and functionality of the lab.

4. Deliverables and Project Management

Understanding the architect’s approach to deliverables and project management is essential. This includes how they plan to handle the various phases of the project, from design to construction. The architect’s ability to produce detailed, biddable documents and maintain a transparent process throughout the project’s life cycle is critical.

As Tammy Ng mentioned, “You want a firm that prides itself on preparing clear, complete, and biddable documents and using the quality control techniques early and often throughout the design process.” This ensures that the project runs smoothly and is completed to the highest standards.

5. Post-Project Support and Quality Assurance

The relationship with your architect doesn’t end once the lab is built. Quality assurance and post-project evaluations are vital to ensuring that the lab functions as intended and that any issues are promptly addressed. Eddie Hall highlighted the importance of architects who offer post-occupancy evaluations, stating, “We hold those walks with the contractor, the engineers, and the end users so that we understand from multiple perspectives what worked and what we could improve for the next project.”

Conclusion

Selecting the right architect for your lab design project involves more than just reviewing portfolios and comparing fees. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of their communication skills, qualifications, experience with lab projects, ability to manage budgets effectively, and commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes. By considering these key factors, you can ensure that your lab design project is in capable hands, leading to a successful and well-executed facility that meets all your operational needs.

Want to Learn More About Choosing the Right Architect for Your Lab?

For a more in-depth discussion on this topic, watch the on-demand webinar "Choosing the Right Architect" presented by Eddie Hall and Tammy Ng. The AIA-approved continuing education webinar offers valuable insights and practical advice on navigating the architect selection process for lab projects. Click here to view the webinar.