Concept Life Sciences New Research Facility

Innova Design Group partnered with Concept Life Sciences (CLS), a multi-disciplinary contract research organisation, to transform their existing laboratory spaces.

CLS provides market-leading scientific services worldwide, including analytical and synthetic chemistry, molecular biology, biophysics, neuroscience, toxicology, and more. With over 200 staff operating across four UK sites totalling 8,500 m² of research space, CLS is dedicated to the development of life-changing therapies and products. Over the past eight years, Innova has collaborated with CLS to upgrade laboratory spaces into modern, collaborative research environments.

This project specifically focused on upgrading seven key laboratories, including ADME, large-scale contract manufacturing, and organic chemistry research facilities, with the goal of optimising workflow, upgrading equipment, and encouraging collaboration between scientists.

The Brief
Concept Life Sciences’ existing laboratory spaces had become outdated and inefficient. Scientists struggled with limited workspace, old equipment, and a layout that hindered collaboration. Some laboratories were too small to handle increasing demand, whilst others operated in isolation, limiting the exchange of ideas and productivity amongst scientists. The large-scale contract manufacturing laboratories were also required to meet strict GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards in order to secure larger contracts.

Innova was tasked with:

•    Redesigning the laboratories for increased efficiency and optimised workflow.
•    Merging specific laboratory spaces to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and communication.
•    Upgrading laboratory equipment and infrastructure to meet modern research demands.
•    Delivering a high-quality, full-turnkey solution on schedule and within budget.

The Solution
To deliver a seamless transformation, Innova provided a structured, end-to-end approach covering every aspect of the project. We worked closely with key stakeholders, including CLS’s Associate Director for R&D and Chief Operating Officer, to understand their operational requirements and long-term objectives. These insights informed a tailored design strategy that focused on space optimisation, regulatory compliance, and future-proofing the different laboratories.

The project was delivered in phases, covering design, manufacture, installation, project management and after-sales support. Innova handled every step, from planning permission and building control to structural consultation, quantity surveying, and space planning. Our expertise extended to M&E works, air handling, fume cupboard installation, extraction system design, IT and communications, and fire suppression systems, ensuring a fully integrated solution.

To deliver a state-of-the-art research environment, Innova carried out the following upgrades:

• Planning Permission: Ensured compliance with Local Planning Authority regulations to secure the necessary approvals for the installation of specialist laboratory equipment and infrastructure. Planning permission submitted by Innova on behalf of the client.

• Building Control: Conducted site inspections throughout the project to confirm compliance with Approved Documents, Building Regulations 2010 and any laboratory specific safety requirements. All regulatory standards were met, ensuring the accessibility, general safety and fire safety of the building.

• Structural Consultation: Assessed the load-bearing capacity for all new installations including laboratory furniture, fume cupboards and any mechanical systems. Verification of structural modifications needed for new ventilation ducting and service routes.

• Quantity Surveying: Provided full specification of the upcoming refurbishment, including a cost estimate, budget control and procurement. Ensured the project was completed on time and within budget, whilst maintaining quality and compliance with the project specifications.

• Laboratory Infrastructure: Complete strip-out and refurbishment, including new flooring, partitions, and storage solutions.

• Electrical & Mechanical Systems: Rewiring and installation of advanced lighting, single-phase and three-phase feeds for specialised equipment, and new emergency stop systems.

• Plumbing & Drainage: New water supply installations for fume cupboards and handwash stations, including advanced filtration and drainage systems.

• Air Handling & Safety Systems: Upgraded A/C and ventilation systems, integrated Firetrace suppression systems, and balanced extraction systems for improved air quality.

• Fume Cupboards & Argon Supply: Installation of six new VAV (Variable Air Volume) fume cupboards with argon gas supply to enhance research capabilities.

• Furniture & Equipment: Manufacture and installation of custom-built laboratory benches, specialised storage and sink units, and enhanced workspace areas for scientists.

• Site Testing and Commissioning: Comprehensive electrical and water system testing was conducted, along with full site testing and commissioning of all fume cupboards, ensuring compliance with BS7258 (1994) and EN14175 standards. The extraction system was balanced with the addition of new filter trays and filters to increase performance, and full pressure testing of the space was carried out.

Final Outcomes & Impact
The project was delivered on time and within budget, resulting in a significantly enhanced research environment. The newly merged laboratory spaces have improved collaboration among scientists, promoting better communication and teamwork. Upgraded workflow solutions, including improved storage and larger write-up areas, have streamlined operations and increased overall efficiency within the workplace.

ADME laboratories now benefit from faster sampling times, increasing their output, while the large-scale contract manufacturing laboratories have expanded and successfully met GMP standards, positioning them to secure larger contracts. Beyond these tangible benefits, the project demonstrated Innova’s ability to handle every aspect of the laboratory transformation, from initial concept to final installation. By expertly managing every step, Innova provided CLS with a fully integrated, cost-effective solution that will support long-term scientific innovation and success.

By entrusting Innova Design Group with the transformation of their laboratory spaces, CLS has gained a state-of-the-art research environment tailored to their exact needs. The new laboratories not only enhance operational efficiency but also provide scientists with the tools and infrastructure necessary for groundbreaking research.

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