Flexible Laboratory Space Using Innovative Modular Design—The University of Colorado Boulder Systems Biotechnology Building—A Case Study
Stephen Black, LEED AP®, JE Dunn Construction
Chris Ertl, LEED AP, HDR, Inc.
This presentation will showcase a unique module-based flexible laboratory approach used in a laboratory design that overcomes challenges inherent in fixed laboratory concepts. The 336,000-square-foot Systems Biotechnology Building (SBB) has a project cost of $163 million and is the newest state-of-the-art laboratory at the University of Colorado Boulder. When completed in February 2012, this interdisciplinary facility will provide a sustainable and engaging environment that will encourage and promote cutting-edge, inter-disciplinary research. The project is targeting LEED® Gold or higher.
A four-story, four-wing building combines large, open, multi-module laboratory spaces with dedicated core areas for vivarium, nuclear magnetic resonance, electron paramagnetic resonance, and mass spectroscopy functions. Chemistry, biochemistry, bioengineering, and Colorado Initiative in Molecular Biotechnology studies and research will occupy the neighborhoods in this building. Laboratory groups will be situated in adjacent spaces and share common areas and utilities for increased sustainability and to foster collaboration.
The case study will present a design that incorporates large open laboratory spaces having multiple modules that also share common low-flow fume hoods. The flexible design at SBB allows a research project to adjust the number of modules to the changing level of study. Large laboratory suites, depending on area, consist of common layouts of two to nine modules per laboratory. Layouts accommodate different types and styles of fume hoods for special research needs. The suite shares a common HVAC zone.
Laboratory casework module features to be presented include: independently moveable laboratory furniture and under-counter mobile storage units; flex-hose, quick connects from overhead ceiling services; flexible electrical and tele-data connection; and Americans with Disabilities Act adjustable and removable service carriers with integral shelving. The design allows a researcher, when necessary, to quickly reconfigure his or her laboratory space to better accommodate changing research needs at minimal cost.
This presentation reflects the following aspects of the Labs21 Approach: more energy-efficient design and reduced costs by using low-flow fume hoods; reduced air flow in unoccupied laboratory spaces; water-saving features for large laboratory equipment and fixtures; use of Forest Stewardship Council-certified fixed and moveable wood casework; and incorporating reusable and recyclable materials. Flexibility in reconfiguring laboratory spaces will save future environmental costs typically associated with laboratory renovations.
Biographies:
Stephen Black is an engineering services manager for the Science and Technology Division of JE Dunn Construction in Denver, Colorado. Mr. Black holds a Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering from the University of Tulsa, a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and is a LEED AP. Mr. Black's focus is on design, planning, cost estimating, construction, and commissioning of hospital, life science, laboratory, pharmaceutical, chemical, and environmental facilities. Areas of specialty include healthcare, university and research laboratories, vivaria, biotech and pharmaceutical equipment, biosafety level (BSL) 2, BSL 3, classified clean suites, environmental rooms, high purity systems, current good manufacturing practices manufacturing, HVAC, and central utility systems. Mr. Black is a member of the International Society of Pharmaceutical Engineers, the Project Management Institute, and the Parenteral Drug Association, a Colorado Bioscience participant, and a past member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers.
Chris Ertl has 15 years of professional experience conducting a broad range of laboratory, programming, design, and project management services for complex biomedical, bioscience, university, governmental, physical science, and animal facility projects. Mr. Ertl has a detailed understanding of state-of-the-art laboratory design concepts and their resulting impact on building systems. Mr. Ertl develops laboratory facilities that respond to user needs, have longevity, and are conducive to world-class research within a client's budget. Mr. Ertl works with scientists to understand how they perform their highly complex work and translates that into a viable, dynamic work environment. Mr. Ertl applies sound planning principles to create productive, safe, reliable, and adaptive facilities that enhance quality of life within the laboratory and promote collaboration. Mr. Ertl advocates a multidisciplinary design process that utilizes building information modeling (BIM) to assure the integration of complex building systems.