Vanderbilt University Medical Center prioritizes the quality and future flexibility of its nationally-ranked facilities. Completed in two main phases, the newly-renovated biochemistry laboratory in Light Hall is a modernized facility that represents best practices in the field.

The recruitment of a new department chair motivated an evaluation of the existing biochemistry laboratory space. Organizing several work sessions with the new chair and key stakeholders, B+MD reviewed the scientific, departmental, and institutional goals. The exercise raised several questions about the optimal configuration and adaptability of laboratories for the evolution of basic science research. In response, B+MD developed an adaptable plan for existing researchers and future recruitment, which was based on current NIH funding, as well as contemporary and projected laboratory trends.

The new facility includes extensive laboratory spaces. The completed project (all phases) saw an addition of a total of 80 new benches (50/50 mix of 5’-0” and 6’-0” – with some even smaller to work with the building’s columns). Not all benches are used as workspaces, though, and about 25% end up being reserved for benchtop equipment locations, offices, shared workspace, breakout areas, and conference rooms. Enclosed in floor-to-ceiling glass, the laboratory benches are generously-lit and easily monitored. A mix of dry and wet research spaces were organized to allow visibility across the floor, and promote collaboration among scientists within several meeting and break areas. With an anticipated 6 kneeholes per principal investigator, the floor and building support areas were determined using metrics for office and ancillary support spaces with numerous flexible alcoves capable of conversion.