systems and digital lighting management systems. “These systems are not new, but have struggled to work their way into lab projects because of their significant initial cost,” says Puelo.
Also on the horizon, Denmark looks for an expanded selection and use of ductless filtration systems that allow for a reduction of facility mechanical systems and energy use, without compromising safety.
Lindsay Hock is Managing Editor for R&D Magazine.
tractors when it comes to the drawings and BIM model,” says Frei. The process of resolving these questions is ongoing.
Many AEC firms would like to see better apportionment of collaborative space in future lab design.
off in the past three years, says Puelo.
As researchers spend long periods of time within the lab, one way to increase productivity, comfort and performance is by implementing more environmentally sensitive flooring options. Rubber flooring has a high resiliency and sustainable benefit to labs, “and is often preferred by those who are on their feet in the lab,” says Eiroa. Rubber flooring also offers a functional and sustainable design solution in that it reduces maintenance, helps repel dirt and bacteria, absorbs noise and increases underfoot comfort for lab researchers.
Materials with increasing amounts of recycled content are finding their way into lab settings in lieu of non-recycled equivalents. “This includes sealed concrete floors replacing floor coverings and less epoxy paints and countertops,” says Adam Denmark, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, lab planner, SmithGroupJJR, Phoenix.
Puelo also sees less of a trend in changing materials, but more of a focus on how materials are finished. Wood casework is moving away from the toxic catalyzed vinyl finish and adopting alternative “green” technologies using 100% solids finish systems that have less environmental impact.
Phenolic benchtop and cabinets are now used more commonly for their durability and ease of fabrication. “Phenolic is suitable for uses within chemical and biological labs where chemical resistance and sanitation are important considerations,” says DeGenova.
Not only has the lab design process changed, but BIM use has become more prevalent.