How to Design Research Environments in Academic Settings?
Arena Consultants
Functions, Aethestics, Sustainable ! Laboratory design architects and planners.
If you ask any science enthusiast, their inclination for science, technology, and innovation truly increases in laboratory settings. Do you know why?
Because it is the place for experimentation- an environment that gives wings to their creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. Hence, labs should feel encouraging, supportive, and comfortable to spark curiosity in young minds.
However, lab design in colleges and universities is usually an afterthought, leading to safety hazards. Further, dull and unplanned laboratories also impact students psychologically. They restrict the development of new ideas and inquisitiveness. Thus, it is crucial to design college labs with a future-forward approach, backed with resilience and a thorough understanding of user needs.
How are College or University Labs Different from Industry Labs?
Academic labs for undergraduate and postgraduate students differ from industry labs in their purpose, design, and operation. So, here’s a closer look at how both these lab categories are different.
7 Considerations for Designing College Laboratories
Curating a laboratory for students needs a precise balance of meeting functional requirements, ensuring safety, and fostering an engaging learning environment. Let’s have a look at the top considerations for designing academic labs.
1. Lab Type and Functionality
Understanding the specific purpose of the laboratory is the foundation of its design. Science labs (chemistry, physics, or biology) have unique requirements compared to computer or robotics labs. You’ll have to customise the layout, equipment, and utilities to meet the intended activities and curriculum objectives.
2. Safety First
Designing for safety in college laboratories ensures a secure environment for students, educators, and researchers. Institutions should think of it as an investment in the next generation of scientists and industrialists. By depicting safety through design, colleges can establish the importance of safety regulations in a lab setting from a younger age.
Therefore, such labs must be planned to inherently promote safety through effective design and planning. For instance, features like non-slip flooring, chemical-resistant work surfaces, and strategically placed emergency exits foster a safer environment.
Additionally, the layout should allow for clear circulation paths and reduce the risk of accidental spills or collisions. Further, incorporating visual cues, such as colour-coded zones for hazardous materials or emergency equipment, can educate users about safety protocols organically.
3. Ergonomics and Accessibility
Designing for comfort and inclusivity ensures that all students can participate equally. Using adjustable workstations, ample lighting, and appropriate seating arrangements enhances usability. You can also incorporate accessibility features like ramps, wider aisles, and wheelchair-friendly workstations for specially-abled students.
4. Optimising Space Utilization
A well-organised layout facilitates smooth movement and efficient workflows. Institutions must provide ample counter space for experiments, storage cabinets for materials, and designated zones for specific activities. They can even group similar functions to reduce cross-traffic and maintain a clutter-free space. The width of an aisle (area between two counters) should be broad enough to allow ease of movement and avoid any collisions.
5. Durable and Easy-to-Clean Materials
Academic labs endure heavy wear and tear due to the continued footfall of students. So, choosing durable and low-maintenance materials is essential. Also, chemical-resistant countertops, easy-to-clean flooring, and corrosion-resistant fixtures can ensure longevity and ease of upkeep.
6. Technology Integration
Modern laboratories should accommodate technological advancements. Colleges can install data ports, Wi-Fi connectivity, and audiovisual equipment to support interactive learning and digital experiments. Additionally, they can ensure the integration of smart systems for lighting, temperature control, and equipment monitoring.
7. Lighting and Ventilation
Sufficient lighting and ventilation are critical for comfort and safety. Institutes can use a combination of natural and artificial lighting to ensure adequate illumination that syncs with the circadian rhythm. Installing mechanical ventilation systems can remove toxic fumes and maintain air quality, especially in chemistry labs.
In Conclusion
It is best to hire a designer for building laboratories. They bring their professional expertise in creating layouts that streamline workflows, prioritise user safety, and comply with regulatory standards. Additionally, designers focus on aesthetics and emotional well-being, ensuring that the laboratory is an inspiring and comfortable space for prolonged use.