Laboratory design for today's technologies and marketplace

Abstract

Many laboratories must be redesigned to adapt to rapid changes in equipment technology and in the business of health care. The information needed to select design goals can be gathered by following a three-step discovery process. Architectural and engineering plans may then be developed. The proposed design must address building and safety codes, the incorporation and anticipation of new technologies, productivity concerns, and marketing strategies. After existing conditions are defined and a design is developed, a detailed cost analysis can be performed. A phasing plan that spreads construction and costs over several years may be considered. Due to the complexity of a major laboratory redesign, an architectural and engineering firm with extensive laboratory design experience should be a key member of the project design team from the start.