
Join us for
the 25th annual Lab Design Conference in 2026!
We’ll see you in Orlando on May 11-14 at the leading business conference
for lab design professionals to learn about sustainable design, industry trends, and more
Featured
Laboratory renovation offers sustainability and cost advantages over new construction but poses complex challenges—including structural limits, MEP upgrades, safety compliance, and stakeholder coordination—that require careful planning and collaboration to create flexible, high-performing research spaces
Fire safety in laboratories requires holistic, intentional design that integrates code compliance, hazard mitigation, resilient infrastructure, and support for staff preparedness to prevent, contain, and respond to incidents while protecting people, research, and operations
The 2026 Lab Design Conference offers a choice between three small-group, hands-on workshop options as an add-on to your registration—space is limited, so secure your spot early!
Latest
Two decades after Hurricane Katrina exposed the vulnerabilities of critical scientific infrastructure, laboratory designers and builders are embracing a holistic, performance-based approach—leveraging digital tools, modular construction, and community-integrated planning—to ensure labs not only survive disasters but sustain research, protect communities, and accelerate recovery
The Lab Design Digital Conference on October 21 is a free virtual event featuring expert webinars on shared lab design, automation, and research-driven strategies, with AIA credit, live Q&A, and on-demand access for all registrants
Welch’s has undertaken a major lab relocation to a modern, purpose-built facility in Waltham, MA—a move that reflects a strategic effort to foster collaboration, improve lab efficiency, and align its physical space with long-term research, operational, and sustainability goals
Upcoming Events
As we prepare for the 2026 Lab Design Conference, join Lab Design for this digital event which will present a deep dive into the essential aspects of laboratory design, construction, renovation, and furnishing
Join Lab Design for the HVAC Design for a Sustainable Lab Digital Conference, and discover how to effectively integrate HVAC systems into lab design and construction and plan for their future operation and maintenance
Join Lab Design for the Academic Lab Design Digital Conference, where our expert speakers will explore how to create flexible lab spaces that can adapt to evolving research needs and promote interdisciplinary collaboration
On-Demand Events
Register for this free webinar from Lab Design to discover how industry experts are guiding teams through the full lifecycle of adaptable labs—covering flexibility, AI, robotics, modular systems, and practical strategies to ensure facilities evolve with changing science
Join Lab Design for the Casework and Furniture Digital Conference, which will provide valuable insights into creating lab spaces that meet the diverse needs of scientists and researchers while maintaining aesthetic appeal
Project Profiles
The Applied Research Center (ARC) at Florida Polytechnic University is a 95,000-sf hub for innovation and collaboration, featuring flexible research spaces, teaching labs, and sustainability-focused design that supports the university's growth while fostering industry partnerships and connectivity across campus
Lab Design News spoke to Jay Deshmukh, OAA MRAIC, an associate principal at Arcadis who was the project manager and design lead on the project, and Tiina Hubel, OAA, MRAIC, a senior associate at Arcadis who worked as a project architect
Gensler recently completed a renovation of the Medical Education Building at University of California Irvine which spanned multiple project types including an anatomy lab, Active Learning Center, student lounge, classrooms, and offices
Professional Profiles
Lab Design News spoke to Hadiza Djibring, lab planner with HDR in New York, about the latest trends in design-build, her favorite piece of architecture, and helpful advice for new lab planners
Lab Design News spoke to Cody Ferguson, laboratory planner with HERA Laboratory Planners, about the importance of active listening, his expansive home library, and how crucial the use of color is in a lab space
Lab Design News spoke to Matt Malone, science and technology practice leader at Perkins&Will, about how his multidisciplinary experience—from architect to developer—shapes his holistic approach to lab planning, fuels his commitment to end-user collaboration
Op-Ed
To support the vital work of recovering, identifying, and honoring the remains of missing servicemembers through advanced DNA analysis, forensic laboratories must be purpose-built to enable the precise, contamination-free processing of ancient and mitochondrial DNA—making thoughtful lab design an essential foundation for reuniting families with those lost to war
Dr. Shamika Kelley is transforming New Orleans' forensic lab not only through empathetic leadership and wellness-focused culture, but by directly influencing the physical lab space—expanding staff capacity, bringing DNA analysis in-house with advanced equipment, and ensuring the layout supports both operational excellence and human-centered design
Effective job site meetings—though often disliked—are essential for coordinating complex construction projects, helping all subcontractors anticipate delays, voice concerns, and avoid costly consequences through early, candid communication
This webinar will explore how to incorporate the rapid advancements in lab automation and AI into the physical and operational requirements of research facilities—highlighting core design principles, infrastructure needs, sustainability strategies, and lessons learned to help create flexible, future-ready labs