Free Digital Event: Practical Ways to Improve Existing Labs
Improving laboratory performance does not always require a major renovation, a significant capital investment, or extended downtime. Sometimes, targeted changes to space utilization, workflows, equipment placement, and building systems can make a meaningful difference in how a laboratory functions.
On Wednesday, October 14, Lab Design will host the Laboratory Optimization Digital Conference, a free virtual event exploring practical strategies for improving existing laboratory environments. Beginning at 11:00 am ET, the conference will bring together industry experts to discuss how laboratory teams can identify opportunities for improvement, prioritize upgrades, and make informed decisions about their facilities without automatically resorting to large-scale projects.
Designed for architects, engineers, facility planners, laboratory managers, researchers, and other stakeholders involved in laboratory design and improvement, the event will offer actionable insights for teams working within existing space, infrastructure, and budget constraints.
Register now to watch the sessions on October 14, or afterward on demand.
Three sessions focused on real-world challenges
The conference will open at 11:00 am ET with Optimizing the Lab Without a Major Renovation, presented by Adam Harper, AIA, NCARB, LEED GA, and Anna Evangelista of Ci Design, Inc., alongside Steve Lahti, PE, LEED AP BD+C, of Vanderweil Engineers. Drawing on activity-based laboratory planning and lessons from cGMP manufacturing environments, the session will explore ways to improve space utilization, workflow efficiency, flexibility, and user experience. Attendees will also learn how to optimize existing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems to improve environmental conditions, energy performance, and occupant health and safety without replacing entire systems.
At 12:30 pm ET, From Lab Vision to Science Ready will examine how early planning and coordinated project management can help laboratories transition from a design concept to an operational research environment. Tim Kiernan of Agilent Technologies will discuss how true-to-scale 3D modeling can help teams evaluate equipment placement, optimize workflows, and identify utility and safety concerns before work begins. The presentation will also address laboratory relocations, equipment handling, qualification, and strategies for controlling costs and minimizing downtime.
The final session, Optimize Your Lab Renovation: Planning for Code and Infrastructure Upgrades, begins at 1:30 pm ET. Melody Wang, PE, LEED AP, WELL AP, of EXP, and Tzveta Panayotova, AIA, LEED AP, of HDR, will explore common code and infrastructure requirements that can affect laboratory renovation projects. Topics will include ventilation, fire protection, emergency power, safety equipment, and building systems. Attendees will learn how to identify potential compliance issues early, prioritize necessary upgrades, and incorporate them into project budgets and schedules to reduce unexpected costs and disruptions.
Practical strategies for better lab performance
Across the three sessions, attendees will gain approaches for evaluating existing conditions, identifying high-impact improvements, and balancing cost, safety, compliance, and operational needs. These strategies can help teams make better use of current facilities, extend the value of existing infrastructure, and prepare laboratories to accommodate changing research requirements.
The event also offers an opportunity to hear directly from industry experts and explore approaches that may be applicable to attendees’ own projects. Earn AIA continuing education credit by completing selected sessions.
The Laboratory Optimization Digital Conference is part of Lab Design’s ongoing coverage of laboratory planning, design, renovation, and performance, looking ahead to the 2027 Lab Design Conference in Dallas. Attendees can participate in the October 14 event live or access sessions on demand.
Register for free to explore practical ways to optimize existing laboratory environments and make informed decisions about future improvements.
