Full scope Life Science delivery

Full scope fit out for leading life sciences firm GlaxoSmithKline including bespoke research and development lab facilities complete with major mechanical and electrical advancements.

Project partners

  • Arcadis
  • Turner & Townsend
  • MG Partnership
  • Architon
You have the best safety record across all the contractors we have worked with, for the number of hours worked.

Gary Huntley, GlaxoSmithKline

Key features

  • Medical and liquid gases
  • Temperature Control
  • Pressure Regimes
  • Air Tightness
  • DOPA
  • Chemical drainage
  • MBSC/FUME cupboards

Project description

GlaxoSmithKline required a fit out that enabled them to consolidate from one space into another and allow for the decommissioning and disposal of their Ware facility.

The initial scope for the project encompassed the full strip out of Building 8 from shell and core to full Cat B fit out. The brief was to deliver a new research and development facility comprising of both laboratory and office space. GSK required a bright and inviting space so we ensured the buildings façade was removed and a new curtain walling system was installed. We delivered new glazed partitions and biophilic design elements into the office spaces, whilst laboratory spaces incorporated full state-of-the-art lab furniture, including new fume cupboards and biosafety cabinets.

Alongside the full fit out of floors one and two, a partial refurbishment was completed to the ground and lower ground floors of Building 8, as well as the lower ground floor of Building 7. The final facility included a new MRI suite, new autoclaves, new necropsy suite, office suites and break out spaces. A strict logistical delivery plan was also required for the completion of the freezer farm relocation. Essential to the success of this relocation was the maintenance of critical temperatures to not disrupt or damage any samples.

Adapt and overcome

A key project challenge was gaining access to the facility during the pre-construction phase to finalise design. The facility had been vacated and we were in possession of the site but the team had to be flexible and adapt quickly to accommodate design change and scope creep.

Throughout the project, we accommodated various scope changes including extensive modifications to building services and enhancements to the roof plant systems. This was a particular project highlight as the project required use of a large crane. Despite the changes, we delivered the project on time and enabled a smooth relocation from GSK's previous space.

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