It is likely you are familiar with Moore’s Law from 1965 which predicted that computer processing power would double every 18-24 months. Seemingly, for the past five decades this has held true, brought about by a wave of scientific and technological advances. Similar trends of innovation and improvement have been consistent throughout the scientific community. This however, has yet to be translated into similar progress in the design of research and development (R&D) facilities from which these innovations emerge. In fact, few have changed significantly since Gordon Moore made his famous observation. This has left a legacy of inflexible facilities with a focus on a single technology field.
Some recent developments, such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s LabCentral, have shown that facilities for technology start-ups can be greatly improved by low cost access to fully fitted laboratory spaces with extensive shared resources and flexible break-out spaces to provide support, and encourage collaboration. Although effective, this type of development remains primarily focused on one sector, in this case biotech.
There is a concept emerging which aims to create a universal science building, a new type of adaptable R&D facility, capable of accommodating multiple sectors. To understand the value of such a facility we will look at how a leading example, Menai Science Park, has been designed to tackle four key issues typical of incumbent building types:
1 Adaptive workspace
Too often in existing buildings, facilities are configured around a specific scientific activity, with the layout of a traditional wet lab one of the most prescriptive. For buildings to become more sustainable and effective over time it’s important that they adapt more easily to multiple technologies or industries.
With a simple but carefully designed grid arrangement it is possible to deliver a building framework which can support a much wider range of space formats; from laboratories, to workshops, through to offices. An offset central corridor solution also allows the flexibility to incorporate both shallow and deeper plan spaces.
By keeping initial building servicing (ventilation, data and power) to an effective base level across the building and providing modest quantities of unallocated plant space, it is possible to incorporate a series of flexible risers into the external façade which independently feed services to key spaces. This allows for service provision to be individually upgraded, without disturbing adjacent activities.
2 Appropriate space for automation, simulation and computational science
Automated processes and computational simulation are becoming increasingly prevalent in many scientific disciplines, including the biotech industry. R&D facilities need to be capable of supporting bench-based science and rapidly increasing levels of automated analysis, as well as responding to the demands of storing, moving and working with massive quantities of data.
Using large span spaces with open ceilings better accommodates larger automated equipment. It provides a highly flexible and accessible way of distributing IT services without the need for expensive (and in wet labs, inappropriate) raised floors. These spaces also offer better penetration of natural light into workspaces helping to improve the quality of the working environment.
3 Optimising the benefits of interdisciplinary working
In the science and technology sectors, working in a clusterof related businesses has long been seen as an important catalyst for growth amongst start-ups. Increasingly, cross-fertilisation of ideas and knowledge between those working in different industrial sectors has been encouraged to help stimulate innovation.
Creating a vibrant open innovation space, where workers from various businesses can meet socially, hold events or undergo training, is no longer seen as a luxury but as an essential component of any successful incubator development. The addition of a small café ensures these spaces become the centre-point for the community.
4 Low-cost access to enhanced resources
Many fledgling hi-tech businesses have been priced out of traditional R&D facilities and instead are turning to innovation centres for a solution. These centres provide low cost accommodation and access to essential resources and services which are shared between the building tenants, spreading the cost. Typically, shared services might include; highly specialist equipment, services such as centralised glass-washing facilities, and access to consultancy services such as patent lawyers or accountants. Adaptability of the workspace is imperative to accommodate the various technical, servicing and work styles that these shared resources demand.
It is unlikely that the pace of change in building design will ever come close to that of the science and technology fields. Despite this, we should surely seek to ensure our science and technology facilities are far more responsive and effective over time, as this is fundamental to making them more sustainable. By addressing these four key issues, we’re beginning to see the emergence of flexible and adaptive facilities, raising the prospect that for new science buildings, one size really can fit all.
