University of Chicago | Park Labs
4,950sf | CHICAGO IL
Nano fabrication lab including a gas technology lab, laser lab and conversion of lower level storage space into office space in both the Searle Chemical Laboratory and the Jones Laboratory. This was a joint IME/PSD project as well. This project included four (4) very different space types over two (2) buildings and two (2) different floors.
Tasked with transforming the space into a chemistry lab for nanotechnology as well as offices for Dr. Park’s student researchers, there was quite a bit of pressure to not only make the space functional but also inviting. We used glass partitions throughout to help the space feel larger than it actually was and took great care to ensure the labs looked as cool as the research being conducted inside them.
The pendulum has swung from the large labs to smaller-scaled “neighborhood” labs, promoting more collegiality. We created laboratory spaces that stimulate collaboration and interconnectedness.
Planning for flexibility in the built environment goes beyond the flexible services infrastructure. Flexibility is driven by adapting the building to the evolving needs of the lab users. These are laboratories, which can be easily adapted with in-house facilities staff, to accommodate changes in personnel or science research.
