Transforming Abandoned Stores into Life Science Facilities
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The life science industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by advances in biological sciences and the demand for innovative drugs and therapies. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for new and expanded life science facilities has surged, with as much as $90 billion in capital pouring into the sector in North America in 2021 alone. In response to this demand, an innovative solution has emerged: adaptive reuse.
From Toys R Us to a research production facility
Adaptive Reuse: Giving New Life to Old Spaces
Adaptive reuse involves repurposing or renovating existing buildings instead of constructing new ones. This strategy has proven effective in meeting the spatial demands of the rapidly evolving life science industry. Strang, for instance, transformed an abandoned, former Toys ‘R’ Us into a fully functional laboratory during the peak of the pandemic. This approach, especially beneficial for speed-to-market companies, offers a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to traditional construction.
The Rising Demand for Life Science Facilities
Finding cost-effective and sustainable space solutions for life science facilities is an ever-growing challenge. It’s now time we think outside of the box—or rather, the big box store. The demand for life science facilities has skyrocketed due to breakthroughs in biological sciences, increased drug innovation, and the global response to health crises. Immediate needs often drive laboratory projects, intensifying the demand for real estate in the life science sector.
Simultaneously, big box retail stores are becoming obsolete, thanks to the rise of Amazon and online shopping. Abandoned and vacant, these large storefronts present an opportunity for adaptive reuse, aligning perfectly with the growing requirements of the life science industry.
Advantages of Adaptive Reuse
- Cost & Speed: Speed to market is the driving force behind life science clients. Adaptive reuse offers significant cost and speed advantages. Existing structures are usually in serviceable condition, requiring minimal demolition and repair work, and often offer attractive lease rates. This results in quicker operational readiness and potential cost savings, embodying the concept of “speed to market.”
- Sustainability: “The greenest building is the one that is already built.” Repurposing existing buildings is a sustainable practice, reducing material waste, transportation costs, and energy consumption. This aligns with the goal of environmental responsibility.
- Site & Structure: Big box stores provide ample space, parking, and amenities, making them suitable for life science facilities. These buildings are large, rectangular-shaped spaces with a long spanning structure. There are fewer columns inside which makes it flexible to create large spaces such as laboratories.
Essential Elements for Successful Adaptive Reuse
Before embarking on adaptive reuse, careful consideration of factors such as building height, structural integrity, zoning laws, and local incentives are crucial. Collaboration with design professionals ensures a thorough analysis of existing conditions and optimizes the floorplate for its new layout. It is always in your best interest to hire a design professional to provide architectural and engineering analysis and evaluate the existing condition of the building.
Thinking Outside the Big Box Store
As the life science industry continues to advance, creative and out-of-the-box thinking is essential to meet growing market demands. The potential to repurpose not only big box stores but also empty industrial and office buildings for life science laboratories should be considered. The advantages of adaptive reuse, including cost-effectiveness, quick turnaround, sustainability, and site suitability, make it an appealing option. Developers and architects must adapt their tactics to seize current opportunities while contributing to a more sustainable future.
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Interested in this topic? This article is just a glimpse into the world of adaptive reuse and the advantages of transforming big box stores into cutting-edge life science facilities. We invite you to check out our comprehensive whitepaper on this topic to learn more and stay ahead in the dynamic landscape of life science facility development.
