As lab designers, our main goal is to create spaces that meet the needs of scientists, who are our primary users. To achieve this, we constantly strive to understand their requirements and expectations. At SMMA, we have been taking a two-pronged approach to achieve this: by gaining insights into the scientific research conducted in the labs we design and by participating in educational programs.
Our educational programs are organized in partnership with esteemed scientific organizations such as I2SL, My Green Lab, NEBSA, Lab Design Conference, Lab Manager, and Harvard School of Public Health. Through these programs, we bring together multiple stakeholders to share their expertise on various topics related to lab design and planning.
Learning about the science conducted in labs gives us a competitive edge as lab designers. It helps us bridge the communication gap between architects and scientists, which is crucial in modern lab design projects that involve numerous variables and priorities. By understanding the daily challenges faced by scientists in the lab, we can create spaces that are more functional, user-friendly, and safer for them to work in.
Incorporating scientific knowledge into our lab design practice also allows us to explore fresh perspectives and innovative design approaches. This enhanced understanding enables us to find alternative sustainable design solutions that align with the end goal of achieving net zero energy and carbon neutrality in our projects. We are committed to working towards this goal through initiatives like My Green Lab’s Ambassador Program.
If you want to learn more about how SMMA incorporates scientific knowledge into its lab design practice or if you have any questions about our educational programs or initiatives, please feel free to contact Adrian Walters, our Science & Technology Studio Leader at [insert email address].
