Repurposing space for new discoveries

Seeking to enhance its biomedical research capabilities, this top research university repurposed an existing laboratory and office facility to expand wet lab space for the school of medicine. Reconfiguration of the two-story, 67,000-square-foot program focuses on creating intentional connections among all functions to enable successful research outcomes while applying space standards used across the university's school of medicine facilities.

With an absence of any wet laboratories in the original first floor plan, the program was configured around adding this function while creating direct adjacencies to open and closed office workspaces. Natural light and transparency define the space and provide a strong visual link within the environment, reinforcing the culture with a sense of presence, purpose, and unity in the research mission.

Zones for group collaboration form connective elements outside the labs in the renovated atrium and lobby; opportunities for individually focused work are provided away from these public areas. Additionally, thoughtful incorporation of employee amenities, including a yoga studio and gym, further support employee wellness during the workday.