What to Prioritise When Choosing a New Research Laboratory

Flexibility for Future Growth

Scientific work rarely stands still, and neither should your laboratory. As technologies and research priorities evolve, your space needs to keep pace. Flexible laboratory design allows for equipment upgrades, process changes, and team expansion — all without major disruption.

Look for layouts that support modular benching, adaptable mechanical and electrical services, and reconfigurable zones. Planning for flexibility from the outset helps safeguard your investment and ensures your lab continues to meet your needs as they develop.

Compliance and Safety

Every laboratory must meet exacting safety and regulatory standards, whether for chemical storage, air handling, cleanroom classification, or biological containment. But good design means these requirements are seamlessly integrated — not added as an afterthought.

From fume extraction systems to specialist storage and fire safety measures, prioritise spaces where compliance and safety are embedded into the fabric of the environment, supporting both your people and your processes.

Efficient Workflow Design

The internal flow of a laboratory shapes how well your teams can work, collaborate, and innovate. A considered layout helps reduce contamination risks, streamline processes, and make daily tasks easier.

When planning your space, think about:

• Logical work zones – Keep sample preparation areas, write-up stations, and equipment within easy reach of one another.
  
  
• Clear process separation – Design routes that limit the risk of cross-contamination, especially where sensitive materials are involved.
  
  
• Accessible storage – Position storage so that essential tools and consumables are always at hand, keeping the workspace organised and efficient.

• Space for collaboration – Make room for ideas to be shared, without compromising critical lab functions.
  
  

Thoughtful workflow design creates an environment where teams can focus on what matters most: advancing their work.

Specialist Services and Technical Infrastructure

Modern laboratories depend on reliable technical infrastructure. From specialist gases and high-purity water to precision temperature control and robust ventilation, these services are the foundation of safe, efficient operations.

When selecting a site, assess whether the building can support these requirements or can be upgraded cost-effectively. Planning for technical services early on helps avoid costly modifications later.



Location and Accessibility

Location can have a significant impact on your day-to-day operations. In areas like Reading, Oxford, London, or other science hubs, consider proximity to transport links, suppliers, academic and commercial partners, and the wider science and technology ecosystem.

Ease of access for deliveries, waste removal, and emergency services is equally important, as is creating a location that attracts and retains top talent.



Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

Today’s laboratories need to balance high performance with environmental responsibility. Prioritise spaces that can accommodate energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and smart building controls. These choices not only reduce your carbon footprint and running costs — they can also help you meet client, investor, and regulatory expectations for sustainability.

The right laboratory space supports innovation, safeguards your team, and helps future-proof your organisation. By focusing on flexibility, compliance, efficiency, and sustainability, you can create an environment that enables progress for years to come.

Talk to the Specialists

Choosing the right laboratory space and working with trusted laboratory fit out companies can make all the difference in achieving a safe, efficient, and future-proof research environment. At Glenside, we provide tailored solutions for clients across science, technology, healthcare, and many other industries with innovation at their core. Why not arrange an initial chat to see how we can support your project from concept to completion?

Get in touch today to chat about your project, or explore how we can support your journey to a better, smarter, more inspiring office.