The life sciences sector in the UK is growing and with this growth comes demand for modern, innovative buildings. Derek Lloyd, Director Development Management UK, at Prologis UK, discusses technology used in modern, sustainable life science buildings in the UK including automation, enhanced air change technology and buildings being engineered for high vibration performance, so that sensitive analytical or imaging equipment can be positioned anywhere across the floor without compromising accuracy or data quality.
Often the home of groundbreaking medical research, modern life sciences facilities are fast becoming an area of design innovation that is rapidly evolving. Innovative design and fit-out specs, such as collaborative workspaces, modular flexibility and integrated advanced medical, are reshaping how work in life sciences is done and enhancing base infrastructure for faster diagnostic outcomes, better workspace efficiency and more investable campuses.
It goes without saying that the quality of the space is becoming increasingly critical to the success of the work being undertaken inside, but how will innovation redefine the future of life sciences facilities, and what can we expect modern workspaces to look like?
With pioneering innovations taking place across the MedTech sector, modern life sciences facilities must be designed to keep up with the technologies supporting them. Research and diagnostic capabilities are advancing at a rapid pace, so buildings must now integrate clinical equipment within the design to allow laboratories to operate efficiently whilst maintaining safety. For example, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s histopathology lab houses a UK-first formalin distribution system that was developed and installed directly into the base build, setting new standards for the safe delivery of formalin. Histopathology laboratories process approximately 400 litres of formalin per week, traditionally requiring significant manual handling of this hazardous chemical before disposal. To mitigate these risks, the facility was designed with a dedicated external storage tank that feeds formalin directly to laboratory workbenches through a controlled distribution network. This system removes the need for manual handling, provides controlled noxious-fluid management for operators and significantly reduces respiratory exposure risks while also minimising chemical waste.
Advances in engineering design also enable further optimisation of life sciences facilities. Enhanced air change technologies, for instance, provide laboratory environments with the equipment to maintain stringent air quality standards. By incorporating a dedicated advanced air handling and extraction system into a building design, hazardous vapours can be safely managed without the need for additional specialist containment equipment. Medical spaces can also be constructed with high vibration performance, so that sensitive analytical or imaging equipment to be positioned anywhere across the floorplate without compromising measurement accuracy or data quality. Incorporating this as part of the base build offers occupiers complete flexibility in how the space is used.
Integration of digital technologies into designs can further transform how facilities are managed and optimised on a day-to-day basis. Using technology such as IoT-enabled sensors allows building operators to monitor laboratory occupancy and equipment usage in real-time, so that spaces can be utilised more effectively and safely. When combined with digital twin models and AI-driven building management systems, these technologies allow teams to continuously analyse building performance and optimise aspects such as HVAC systems, lighting and equipment schedules to suit the needs of the space.
Laboratories are known to be one the most energy intensive spaces, typically consuming around three to 10 times more energy per square metre than standard office areas. Not only can digital technologies support sustainability targets but they also go a long way in reducing operational costs and overall energy consumption of the building.
Alongside the building design itself, fitouts that offer adaptability are a vital part of supporting innovative lab design. Interior layouts, and therefore workflow efficiency, can be optimised using modular workbenches set out to create a logical workflow that avoids cross-contamination or staff bottlenecks. Modular benching is adaptable, so also allows for rapid reconfiguration as science and technology advances, enabling the space to continuously adapt without requiring structural alteration. Maximising the use of modular fitouts also creates the opportunity to optimise footprint, as furniture can be added or removed to make space for offices or collaborative research zones as the needs of the occupiers change over time.
With the medical and healthcare sector struggling to recruit, staff wellbeing should also be central design consideration in life sciences facilities. High spec buildings are desirable to work in and go a long way in attracting and retaining the best employees. Ensuring that there is access to dedicated education and training areas and purpose-built catering facilities supports both professional development and day-to-day comfort for those working within the building. Outdoor spaces must also be considered. Thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces provide relaxing breakout areas for staff and also bridge the urban and natural landscape that is beneficial for both the local community and wildlife.
Looking ahead, it will come as no surprise that the most forward-thinking life science facility design will no longer be defined by one single element, but instead a blend of seamlessly integrated technology and design innovation for both the interior and exterior of a build. For future facilities to provide a highly effective research or clinical space, the design must focus on blending adaptable, collaborative spaces with high quality fitouts and embedded digital technology. Those that invest in high-performing lab spaces will support cutting-edge research whilst creating life science environments capable of evolving alongside advancing scientific discovery.
