The Construction Innovation Hub: P-DfMA & the Roadmap to 2030

It afforded us a far greater level of stakeholder engagement and buy-in than we would typically achieve for a one-off design (see below).

The spaces within the estate need to allow for flexibility in the location of people, processes and equipment, with changes, wherever possible, carried out without the need for engineering and construction.Finding the right balance is a critical factor..

Almost universal among participants in the discussion, was a concern about the sheer amount of data now generated in laboratories.This is one of the key drivers for smart systems, as the level of data already outstretches the human capability to examine, analyse, and make-sense of it.. Smart systems can provide a mechanism to inform decision making, but the sheer quantity and flow rate of new data also create practical problems.Due to the data flow rate and a perceived lack of secure systems and protocols, WiFi is not used for laboratory instruments.

The need for wired ethernet and the development of CAT standards is driving larger service voids (bigger, more expensive lab buildings) which in turn restricts flexibility and adaptability..The data issue is another factor impacting the skill sets required in the laboratory..

Although the automation path forward for laboratories is uncertain, it was felt that longer-term plans and strategies were needed.. For example, if automated systems become prevalent, they become increasingly critical to operations and supply chains.

This brings with it a need for increased reliability, redundancy and contingencies..You see other people, their shopfronts.

We like feeling part of the action.It’s a great space to work in.’ Whilst not having an external canalside view like the studios on the opposite side of the building, the central atrium floods the tables in the communal area outside their space with lots of natural light.

‘In the summer, it’s so sunshiney, some people wear shades,’ she says.Understandably, the stunning atrium is Burles’ favourite thing about the building, ‘it gives light, it gives a sense of space.’ She also particularly likes being at their end of it, which is tucked away at the opposite end from the main entrance as ‘it’s got that slightly knocked back, industrial, vintage look.’ Chris agrees, calling the exposed steel beams, ‘Industrial Chic.’ He is also a huge fan of the breakout area’s big, wooden tables, which he sees as an extended part of their studio.