Creating a functional and safe learning or research space is at the heart of designing teaching and research labs. From programming to layout optimization and integrating evolving design trends, every detail plays a role in ensuring these spaces meet the needs of students, researchers, and educators. This blog dives into the essentials of lab design, providing insights into programming labs, prioritizing safety, optimizing layout, and covering current trends.
Programming for Success
Programming is the foundation of any successful lab design. It involves gathering and analyzing information to understand the objectives, needs, and constraints of the space. This process begins with answering essential questions like who will use the lab, how it will function, and what equipment is needed. For example, is the lab supporting chemistry students, or is it designed for a specific researcher using advanced lasers?
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Building the right team during programming is crucial. Stakeholders typically include department heads, lab managers, faculty, and environmental health and safety (EH&S) personnel. For teaching labs, educators provide valuable input on how the space will be utilized. For research labs, the equipment list and workflow requirements must be carefully documented to ensure the space supports the required processes and equipment seamlessly.
Key tip: The earlier all stakeholders are aligned, the smoother the design process becomes, saving time and reducing costly revisions later.
Safety and Effectiveness
The effectiveness of a lab hinges on its ability to facilitate productivity while ensuring safety. Proper consideration for chemicals, exhaust systems, and accessibility is vital. For instance, when handling chemicals, the type and quantity dictate storage requirements. Fume hoods, chemical-resistant surfaces, and waste disposal systems must align with the lab’s specific needs. Similarly, eye wash stations, safety showers, and fire suppression systems should be planned according to potential hazards.
Flexibility can also enhance safety and functionality. Movable casework and modular utilities allow labs to adapt to changing research or teaching needs. Accessible design elements—for example, adjustable-height work surfaces or sinks with adequate clearance—ensure inclusivity and compliance with accessibility standards.
Safety tip: Consider placing safety elements like fire extinguishers, spill kits, and clearly labeled emergency shutoffs in easy-to-reach locations without disrupting workflows.
Layout Optimization
Lab layouts, whether for renovations or new builds, must balance efficiency with flexibility. Renovation projects often require considering the location of existing utilities. For example, placing new fume hoods near existing exhaust chases can save significant costs.
For new spaces, flexibility is key. Research labs can benefit from mobile workbenches, overhead service carriers, and modular shelving, allowing easy reconfiguration as needs evolve. Sinks and fume hoods, however, remain stationary for practical reasons. Teaching labs typically incorporate more fixed casework, as these spaces serve consistent class sizes and activities.
Additionally, thoughtful placement of high-foot-traffic equipment (like freezers) away from sensitive instruments (such as balances and microscopes) can optimize the environment. Separating high heat-producing equipment helps lower cooling requirements. Similarly, allocating space for write-up areas and ensuring proper adjacency to the main lab allows smoother workflows.
Pro tip: Engage lab users for feedback on workflows and storage needs early. Test-fitting equipment layouts ensure that everything functions well within the space constraints.
Current Design Trends
Labs today reflect more than just functionality—they emphasize collaboration, innovation, and environmental consciousness.
Transparency and Collaboration
The trend of “science on display” incorporates large windows between corridors and labs, fostering curiosity and collaboration. People working inside the lab can see and engage with what’s happening outside. This open concept creates opportunities for impromptu collaboration and demystifies scientific research.
Sustainability Matters
Sustainability is no longer optional. Lab buildings are energy-intensive, consuming up to five times more energy and water per square foot than office buildings. To offset this, labs are incorporating features like passive energy harvesting, chilled beams for cooling, and heat wheels for energy recovery. Recycling facilities, water-saving systems, and materials with recycled content also make labs greener.
Technology Integration
Emerging technologies such as augmented reality and advanced A/V systems are redefining how labs operate. Teach labs with large monitors, 3D printers, and write-up stations with integrated data capabilities support high-tech learning environments. Maker spaces, equipped with prototyping tools like CAD-CAM machines, are also growing in popularity to foster innovation.
Biophilic Design and Well-Being
Natural light, access to green spaces, and even water features are becoming standard in lab designs. Research shows these elements improve mental health, reduce stress, and increase productivity—all crucial in high-demand environments like research labs.
Pandemic-Inspired Shifts
The COVID-19 pandemic has also shaped lab design. Increased ventilation, compartmentalized workspaces, and automation allow for safer operations. Outdoor meeting spaces have gained popularity, providing a socially distanced but collaborative alternative to traditional conference rooms.
Labs That Stand the Test of Time
Designing teaching and research labs requires balancing purpose, safety, and flexibility while integrating cutting-edge trends. A meticulously planned lab supports learning and research, fosters collaboration, and adapts seamlessly to future advancements. Whether you’re planning a modest renovation or constructing a new state-of-the-art facility, focusing on user needs, safety, and innovation ensures a lab design that stands the test of time.
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