Space planning for life science environments such as laboratories, research facilities or clinical settings requires careful consideration of scientific requirements, safety, and the well-being of end users. But how can we go about this in an engaging, effective and importantly data-driven way? And how can we ensure that these spaces are flexible and future proofed?

Drawing upon expertise developed within commercial workplaces, we are now able to apply these learnings to the Life Science market. To help investors, developers and universities create thriving research spaces that not only retain and attract the best talent but also help keep the UK at the forefront of this industry. 

Key considerations

1.    Understanding the function of each space and how individuals and teams use these spaces. From research and clinical labs, collaboration zones and break out areas to offices and storage. 

2.    Zoning and Workflow. Ensuring the creation of clear zones for different functions whether this is clean rooms, sample preparation, office spaces.  With people and material flows that minimise cross-contamination risk. Looking at receiving areas, work areas and support areas.  And optimising the proximity between related workstations.  
 
3.    Safety and Compliance. Design with safety in mind, especially in environments that handle hazardous materials or biological agents. Making sure spaces meet regulations for containment and safety standards (ventilation, fire safety, etc.). Include emergency exits, eyewash stations, safety showers, and fire suppression systems.

4.    Flexibility and Growth. As an industry that is experiencing rapid technological and research advancements, ensuring that spaces are flexibly designed to accommodate these changing needs is important.  Together with providing facilities can accommodate new equipment and additional teams as needed. 

5.    Ergonomics and Comfort. Workstations should be designed with ergonomics in mind to reduce strain and increase productivity. Adjustable work surfaces, comfortable seating, and appropriate lighting are important.
Consider noise control in lab areas, particularly for equipment-intensive environments, and ensure quiet spaces for focused work.

6.    HVAC and Environmental Control. In terms of ventilation, Labs require specialised HVAC systems for air quality control, to remove fumes, and ensure constant air pressure (especially in clean rooms). Humidity and temperature in research spaces and sample storage areas need to be controlled to avoid compromising experiments or biological samples. Whilst 
for labs dealing with hazardous materials or biohazardous agents, proper containment through negative pressure environments needs to be ensured.

7.     Collaboration vs. Privacy. Ensuring there’s a balance between collaboration and privacy; some areas may need to be quiet and private while others should promote collaboration. Knowing how individuals and teams work so this right balance can be achieved is critical to creating effective environments that allow for different types of interactions and different group sizes.

8.     Technology Integration. Spaces need to allow for integration of the latest technology, with easy access to power and data ports. 

9.     Sustainability. Incorporating sustainable materials and practices into the design, such as energy-efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and water-saving technologies. Consider environmentally friendly materials that meet laboratory standards but have minimal impact on the environment.

10.     Aesthetics and User Experience. Creating a space that promotes mental well-being. This might include natural light, views of nature, or calming interior designs. Lab environments are typically utilitarian, but adding visual elements can enhance creativity and a positive atmosphere for long hours of work.

So how can you effectively achieve each of these key considerations? Gather the data you need to create a robust foundation for informed decision-making with the Lab-life Workstyle Profiler App. 

The Process 
The Lab-life Workstyle Profiler App is a tool we've developed to assist companies optimise their working practices and spatial requirements, particularly tailored to the needs of life sciences and laboratory-based organisations.

 
Key Features:

1. Workstyle Analysis:
   The app evaluates how employees and teams work, including collaborative patterns, individual work habits, and task-specific requirements.
2. Space Utilisation Insights:
   It provides detailed insights into current space utilisation, identifying underused or overcrowded areas and suggesting ways to improve efficiency.
3. Customised Recommendations:
   Based on the analysis, the app generates tailored recommendations for workplace layouts, including lab space configurations, office zones, and shared facilities.
4. Scenario Planning:
   Users can model different scenarios (e.g. growth projections, hybrid working models, or the integration of new lab equipment) to see how changes might affect space needs.
5. Data-Driven Decision Making:
   By leveraging data collected from employee surveys, spatial tracking, and workflow analysis, the app provides a robust foundation for informed decision-making.
    
   Benefits:
    
   •    Enhanced Productivity: Ensures that the workplace environment aligns with employees' needs, promoting focus and collaboration.
   •    Cost Efficiency: Optimises the use of existing resources, potentially reducing unnecessary spending on additional space or facilities.
   •    Future-Proofing: Helps companies adapt to evolving work practices, ensuring their spaces remain relevant and effective over time.

The app is a valuable tool for organisations aiming to create high-performing, user-centred work environments that align with the unique demands of the life sciences sector.

Find out more about how the LAB-life Profiler App works here.  Or contact LAB-life@scottbrownrigg.com

If you could like a taster of the Profiler click here.