Developing a life science facility isn’t just another construction project; it’s a coordinated, multi-stage process that combines infrastructure, compliance, and long-term value creation.
If you’re an investor or developer exploring this field, understanding each step is key.
Every stage builds on the last, ensuring you deliver a functional, compliant, and revenue-producing lab space.
Here’s your guide from start to finish — from choosing the right site to managing a stabilized, income-generating asset.
Evaluating The Site For Life Science Development
Every successful lab project starts with the right location. It’s not just about finding available space, it’s about finding the right context and capacity.
When evaluating a potential site, look at:
- Proximity to universities, hospitals, and innovation hubs
- Zoning allowances and local support for lab use
- Utility availability, including redundant power supply
- Structural readiness: ceiling height, floor load, ventilation feasibility
A feasibility study at this stage helps you answer two big questions:
- Can this site physically support lab development?
- Do the numbers make sense?
That means evaluating infrastructure costs, project timelines, and expected returns early, before you commit.
Early Planning and Design for Life Science Facilities
Once your site checks out, it’s time to plan. This phase is where your project vision takes shape and your specialized design team gets to work.
Building Your Lab Development Team
You’ll need experts who understand the unique standards of lab environments:
- Architects experienced with wet and dry lab design standards
- Engineers who know how to design MEP systems for complex lab infrastructure
- Code consultants to anticipate permitting and compliance requirements
Creating a Flexible Lab Design
Decisions made here influence usability and costs for years to come. Smart planning focuses on:
- Modular layouts that allow reconfiguration and growth
- Equipment zones with proper exhaust and isolation
- Support spaces like cold rooms, storage, and clean zones
This stage shapes both the lab’s function and its future adaptability.
Permitting and Pre-Construction Requirements
Once your design is underway, your project moves into technical review. This is where you’ll engage with local permitting agencies, finalize drawings, and prepare bid packages.
Navigating Permitting and Compliance for Lab Buildings
Expect to manage:
- Submissions to city or county permitting offices
- Coordination with general contractors
- Planning for long-lead items like switchgear or specialized HVAC
Timing is everything.
Delays in permits or equipment can derail your schedule, so it helps to meet with local officials early to smooth the path for approvals.
Lab Construction Stages and System Integration
Now, boots hit the ground. This is where design becomes reality. Beyond the structure, what defines a life science facility is its systems, the heartbeat of the building.
Core Lab Construction Activities
- Building the structural core and utility backbone
- Installing fume hoods, clean benches, and vacuum systems
- Wiring redundant power and automation controls
- Testing air pressure, filtration, and safety systems
Laboratory Commissioning and System Integration
Commissioning ensures everything works safely and efficiently. It’s not just a checklist; it’s proof your systems meet compliance and performance standards.
This process verifies that:
- Every component operates as intended
- Environmental and safety requirements are met
- Documentation is ready for final handoff
Preparing for Tenant Build-Out in Research Facilities
Once the physical build is complete, it’s time to prepare for occupancy. Some labs are pre-leased; others are delivered as flexible shells.
This phase focuses on tailoring the space for the specific scientific and operational needs of your tenants.
Common Tenant Build-Out Elements
- Specialized casework, lab furniture, and storage
- Backup power systems for sensitive experiments
- Secure data infrastructure for R&D workflows
Collaboration between your project team, tenant reps, and facilities managers ensures move-in is smooth and compliant.
Stabilization and Operations of Life Science Labs
Once occupancy begins, your project enters the stabilization phase; transitioning from construction to daily operations.
Key Steps During Stabilization
- Completing punch-list items
- Onboarding maintenance and service teams
- Implementing energy tracking and diagnostics
- Prioritizing preventive maintenance to minimize downtime
A well-operated lab doesn’t just run smoothly — it retains tenants longer, reduces costs, and delivers steady returns.
How Building Operations Support the Full Development Process
At this stage, your focus shifts to long-term performance.
The right operational support ensures your asset remains safe, efficient, and profitable for years.
We support you through every phase:
- Pre-development: site selection, budgeting, early planning
- Project management: from permitting to construction
- Infrastructure advisory: safety and systems expertise
- Post-occupancy: assisting with property management handoff
Building a lab is a long-term investment, and with the right partners, you can avoid costly missteps and deliver assets that last.
Planning a Life Science Development? Let’s Connect
Developing a life science lab is both a challenge and an opportunity. Each step requires specialized knowledge, from utilities and compliance to tenant coordination.
If you’re planning your next project, we’re here to help you do it right; efficiently, confidently, and with long-term performance in mind. CONTACT US