As research and technology evolves, so does lab design. Laboratories built today are being designed for the technology advancements and research breakthroughs of the future. From innovative healthcare facilities to advanced aerospace companies reaching for the stars, lab design is evolving to accommodate these ever-changing industries.
According to Arup Foresight’s 2018 Future of Labs report, the main factors motivating lab design trends include a rise in privately-funded research, technology advances across all industries, and automation. As technology develops at such a rapid pace, labs need to be outfitted with adaptable. In addition, the nature of work has changed, with companies focusing on employee satisfaction and wellbeing.
At LCS, we are at the forefront of designing laboratorys for the future. Learn about the latest innovations in lab spaces—from flexible layouts to sustainable building practices—and discover the four main design trends impacting lab construction today.
Flexible Working Spaces
Companies are increasingly looking for flexible lab spaces that allow for cooperation between employees. Gone are the days of closed off and isolated lab spaces; Now, open concept lab areas, movable benches and equipment, and cloud access for remote work provide flexible working environments that encourage collaboration.
Corporate offices have embraced the spirit of collaboration with open concept floors and flexible meeting rooms that foster informal discussions and cooperative meetings between departments.
The trend toward flexible spaces mirrors the emphasis on designing spaces to accommodate growing needs for the company, like new technology upgrades, growing teams, and specialized research. Research facilities can future-proof their spaces by constructing areas with lots of electrical and plumbing hookups that can be easily converted in in the future.
Employee Wellbeing
The nature of working and living are changing, which is seen best in the emphasis on employee wellbeing. Research facilities, laboratories, and corporate offices place employee wellbeing at the forefront of their designs. From aesthetic elements like open windows and lots of greenery to additional amenities like wellness areas, on-site gyms, and childcare support, employee satisfaction is becoming increasingly more popular, bridging the gap between work and life. The focus on wellbeing is found even down to the smallest details, like ergonomic furniture and comfortable meeting spaces.
Emerging Technology
In the coming decades, the rapid evolution of technology will require laboratories to integrate a growing number of complex technical systems in the coming decades. Spaces will be constructed with technology in mind, from dedicated temperature-controlled server rooms and electrical outlets to cloud connectivity. Effective management of these complex systems will be critical to the success of future labs.
One of the greatest advantages of emerging technology is maintaining the safety of lab workers and personnel. Labs of the future will utilize robotics and automation to speed up the manufacturing process and protect the health and safety of workers.
Emphasis on Sustainability
Eco-friendly building practices start from sustainable building materials to the integrated technical systems. A combination of these elements help reduce waste, conserve water, limit energy use, and save money.
For example, many companies are turning toward certifications to ensure their work spaces are sustainable. LEED Certifications are awarded to buildings that achieve certain standards of decarbonization, quality of life, and ecological conversation.
Technology and sustainability go hand in hand with intelligent building systems. These include sensors places all over a space that recognize energy usage patterns. These systems can cut down on the cost of running high-energy manufacturing and processes.
Whatever the future holds, LCS is prepared to set your lab up for success. You need a partner that is well-versed in constructing complex technical systems. If you are ready to future-proof your laboratory, reach out to LCS to see how we can help update your space.