Life Science

Life Science

20 years of integrated lab design

Life Science is about more than space planning, logistics and technical design. It's about creating a framework for people. The design process from the small details to the large volumes and the programming of rooms is crucial for both efficiency, workflows and job satisfaction.

For more than 20 years, Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects has worked with Life Science architecture, covering laboratories, Research & Development design and health architecture. We offer insight into and perspectives on how to integrate laboratory functions so that they support a homogeneous organisational whole and contribute to a vibrant social environment and the best framework for a good workplace in a GMP company.

Below you can learn more about our Life Science design approach and explore our projects.

Lasse Herbo Madsen, Partner

Insight: How we turn good GMP design into vibrant workspaces

What is important to consider when developing Life Science Architecture?

It is crucial that as architectural consultants, we have a complete understanding of what it means to design and develop architecture for a GMP company (Good Manufacturing Practice) with very specific requirements for quality, documentation and safety. As architectural consultants, we have a well-defined set of rules for how we navigate the tasks throughout the entire process - from the very first sketches to delivering a finished project to the client. After nearly 20 years of working on Life Science constructions, at Vilhelm Lauritzen Architects, we have gained extensive experience in dealing with GMP as a fundamental aspect of project execution – both in terms of planning and construction techniques. We have an in-depth understanding of the challenges faced by users of Life Science companies or hospitals on a daily basis, and it is central to our guidance to clients that we comprehend the complexity involved in working with it.

What difference does it make to have architects involved in the development of Life Science?

It makes a great difference on several levels, but primarily because Life Science buildings need to be spaces for Human Beings. Workplaces that support both workflows and job satisfaction. As architectural consultants, we can create comprehensive solutions that, on one hand, encompass the smallest advanced technical details and the large production machinery, machines and logistics. On the other hand, it should be an environment where it is pleasant to be as a human. Where there is daylight, good indoor climate, places for relaxation, and a presence of nature. Moreover - prioritizing architectural quality can also help strengthen a company or institution's identity and brand.

 

What is the strongest trend in Life Science right now?

I would say the strongest trend right now is the need to think in terms of comprehensive solutions and the integration of functions. There should be a healthy interaction between different functions, such as offices and laboratories. At the same time, "change" is an essential parameter that we must address as consultants. The buildings and spaces we design are not the primary focus. It's the content within the buildings – the machinery, the logistical layout, equipment, hospital beds, and, of course, the users; the employees, students, patients, and more. Therefore, we need to create architecture that is both robust and flexible, capable of accommodating the constant change and development in the field.

 

What difference can Life Science make in improving human lives?

In the field of hospitals, there is now plenty of evidence that architecture can have a healing impact on people, and we are doing it very well here in Denmark. It's a pleasure to follow the development of the New North Zealand Hospital, which I believe is a good example of when architecture places the individual at the center. And at the Steno Diabetes Center in Herlev, they completely redefine what a healthcare facility is.

For both research and production companies, as well as hospitals, it's about harmonizing the human and the "machine" to create a higher unity. Today, we know that if we forget the human aspect and focus solely on hardcore production and logistics, we miss the opportunity to create added value and make a difference that extends far beyond the walls of the company or institution.

Our R&D design mission

Life Science - more than good laboratories

Life Science architecture encompasses Research & Development Design, such as laboratories and research institutions, as well as hospitals and healthcare centers. Often, it involves a combination of functions, such as in hospitals or in production companies that manufacture equipment for industries like the pharmaceutical industry, which also serve as workplaces with cafeterias, meeting spaces, offices, etc.

We believe Life Science design should be more than functionality – it should be part of an aesthetical whole where state-of-the-art lab design is integrated into a beautiful, aesthetical whole. We are on a mission to ensure that good lab design is part of a bigger architectural vision, where the design becomes an integrated part of an organisation’s identity. Where good GMP design is a small part of a larger architectural framework for innovation and human development.

Life Science Project video

Case: From worn-down Life Science domicile to contemporary innovation campus

Click to see how a 15,000-m2 extension breathed impressive new life into the worn-down, 1980’s domicile of Chr Hansen’s (now Novonesis).

The integration forged a cohesive campus of a total of 38,000-m2 including a dairy, laboratories, a customer-support center, auditorium, offices, and a canteen. Strategic extensions, that showcase how mono-functional buildings can be infused with new relevance and integrated into a 38.000-m2 innovation hub; thus, reducing environmental impact from demolition and construction.

Contact
Do you want us to take a look at your project?
Lasse Herbo Madsen, Partner
+45 5458 1891

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