Description
Systematic scientific research examines the feasibility and verifiability of theoretical propositions and confirms the findings by means of reproduction. The respective workplace requirements are as varied as the possible tasks and processes. Workplaces have to provide the best possible working conditions for individual tasks as well as extensive serial processes. As is the case in most architectural projects the design of laboratories also has to mediate between individual aspirations and a viable general scheme. Ideally, laboratory interiors should be based on a flexible, modular FF&E schedule that enables a great variety of uses and fit-outs.
Today, the fixtures and equipment particularly of chemical/biological/medical laboratories are limited to a small number of components that provide maximum flexibility for a large range of use. These systems are essentially based on the following standardised or prefabricated modules:
The arrangement of these modules has to follow considerations related to scientific use, technical service supply and cost effectiveness.
Commonly, modules are arranged in rows; wet and dry units alternate and are either fitted or freestanding. Other solutions involve free open plan arrangements of the components or the provision of basic service units or racks without further fixtures or equipment.
The semi-mobile equipment of the workplace is often supplemented by the grouping of standard labs with adjacent secondary spaces, possibly as niches or ante-zones. Here, noise-emitting equipment (centrifuges etc.) or equipment with extreme thermal output (-80° Celsius refrigerators), incubators, cold storage, isotope laboratories, studies etc. are located. The close proximity of laboratories and these secondary spaces creates economical and efficient modular work units with non-pyramidal flat hierarchies for flexible and targeted work.
It is generally desirable to provide additional informal meeting places close to the laboratories that encourage social interaction. These areas sometimes can be integrated into circulation areas.
Easy access to technical building service systems and convenient installation of supplementary services is crucial for an efficient laboratory environment. Maintenance and upgrading must be possible without causing major disruption to laboratory operations. This also extends to facilities and service systems that form part of the safety supply system of the building. Generally, electrical supply shafts and horizontal utility lines should be oversized to allow the installation of supplementary service systems if this should be required.
Access for maintenance work, installation of supplementary service systems and local revisions should largely be provided from outside the laboratories. Shafts for air supply should be arranged close to lab spaces. If the design fails to comply with this requirement horizontal air ducts might, for instance, cross circulation areas. In this case, more complicated fire regulations apply.
The separation of air-conditioning and ventilation and gas/water/sewage shafts is generally accepted as good practice since they have different sizes. The space requirements for electrical and IT service systems are often underrated. However, these service systems need particular attention – particularly their junctions with other service ducts. Service systems that are frequently required in all areas throughout the building (such as water, pressurized air, gases etc.) should be concentrated in central shafts. Service systems for use in certain parts of a building or infrequent use (such as vacuum, special gases etc.) are to be accommodated in individual shafts.
Architects should be aware that well-meaning and painstakingly worked out laboratory arrangements do not automatically pass the test of reality. Building structures and spatial layouts often radically differ from expectations and working methods of creative and absorbed scientists. Hence, all participants have to join forces to define a common language so the building does not end up as an expression of incomprehensible – and therefore impractical – ideas.
Scientists are often ”creatures of habit” – that is, they develop certain working styles and habits based on previous workplaces. Architects have to identify the actual need by means of an intensive and persistent dialogue with the users. Even after thorough co-ordination of every single aspect architects should look into building a mock-up laboratory when planning a large facility to finalise all design and service details.
Increasingly, computerised and automated processes join more classical work patterns in the laboratories. Ever more sophisticated experimental processes entail ”encapsulated” apparatuses; similar processes used to be carried out openly. This development called for deeper and often larger worktops, storage and shelving, which are now standard. These processes are supervised in detached studies or computer rooms.
The development of more sophisticated equipment and working methods has also brought about exacerbated requirements with regard to the purity and cleanliness of the used chemical substances and the working environment. Here, research requirements and health and safety regulations meet. Increased hygienic standards have found an architectural expression in changing rooms, security gates, air filters, fume cupboards, security zones for genetic research/isotope/hygiene etc. Finishes and all FF&E items must be smooth and without joints so they can be cleaned/disinfected easily. In this context, particular attention should be extended to junctions and joints of different building components. Wall claddings are generally not desirable as concealed cavities increase the risk of microbiological contamination and toxicity. Exposed service lines provide excellent accessibility for cleaning and maintenance and remind users of this necessity as ”…what is out of sight is out of mind!”. Further potential requirements such as heat resistance, solvent resistance, non-porous solid surface etc. have to be established before planning commences.
In any event, all requirements of the brief should be carefully listed and questioned because either inappropriate expectations of the client or insufficient initial provisions by the planners may entail considerable additional costs.
Originally published in: Hardo Braun, Dieter Grömling, Research and Technology Buildings: A Design Manual, Birkhäuser, 2005.