Rightsizing Space
Robin Youngelman, LS Planning
Group, Inc.
Rightsizing is a major concept in sustainable design as it applies
to mechanical systems. This presentation will suggest that this
concept can also apply to the allocation of space from the early
strategic planning stages through detailed design phases. The presentation
will look at how planning and design assumptions affect the overall
square footage of a facility. Examples of benchmarking and laboratory
layouts will be examined to see how alternative concepts of organization,
layout, casework and function can influence the overall size and
therefore economy of a facility. The economy of the facility is
directly related to its impact on the environment. The rightsizing
of the facility can reduce the impact significantly. Findings:
It is imperative to include the researchers in the process of rightsizing
a laboratory. Thinking outside the box as it relates to space planning
is only effective if the required functions and processes are adequately
and amply enabled with the users approval prior to construction.
Allocating space within a facility is first tied to the benchmarks
derived for a particular groups function and then to the specific
layouts developed during the design phase. As science and equipment
evolve, so evolves the laboratory design. Efficient equipment layouts
utilizing vertical organization can reduce bench space by as much
as 30%. Finding common functions between groups, overlapping equipment
needs, and applying diversity and load management analysis to bench
space can further affect the quantity of equipment and size of the
lab required. Efficiencies that are gained from this process can
significantly impact the amount of space that ultimately will be
built and its impact on our resources.
Labs21 Connection:
The concepts of adaptability, adjustability, and expandability
are all integral to planning for sustainable laboratory facilities
from a space perspective. The presentation will explore how laboratory
planning and design, from benchmarking to laboratory layouts can
use these concepts to facilitate sustainable spaces adapted to different
types of sciences, allowing for adjustment of function with minimal
disruption, and inclusive of expansion opportunities to allow for
strategic growth and alignment with the academic and business goals.
Operational matrixes between user groups can identify overlaps in
equipment and processes which, with good planning, can reduce facility
needs and lead to greater cooperation and interaction between diverse
groups of scientists.
Biography:
Robin Youngelman joined LS Planning Group in 2001 and has
been working almost exclusively on laboratory projects. She has
more than 18 years of architectural experience. A highly motivated,
organized, and creative registered architect, Robin has solid design,
programming, and technical skills.
Robin's experience planning laboratory projects includes planning
over 100,000 SF of pharmaceutical labs and process spaces. She is
working closely with facility managers and users to develop solutions
for increasing the utilization and efficiency of existing labs and
offices. Her goal is to improve the work environment while providing
our clients with cost effective solutions to their space use concerns.
Robin recently completed a Small Scale Fermentation and Purification
project for Amgen's AC7 LakeCenter facility. She is currently leading
a strategic facility plan and space programming effort for Amgen's
small molecule development. Last year Robin led the design of 12,000
SF of laboratory tenant improvement space for Dharmacon.
Robin's highly developed analytical and problem-solving ability
is evident to the client in the attention to detail and competent
manner in which she performs at each phase of planning, design and
construction.
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