Healthcare Life Science

SBA Completes Microbiology Lab

01_Baystate MB Lab_SBA

Baystate lab

Holyoke, MASteffian Bradley Architects (SBA) has completed construction for Baystate Medical Center’s microbiology lab in Holyoke. The 11,000sf lab was designed with an aim toward long-term adaptability and flexibility by utilizing adjustable, mobile work benches to allow quick reconfigurations; overhead service panels to distribute power, data, and gases throughout the lab ceilings; and additional building systems capacity to allow future lab equipment to be added.

The design process focused on the study of sample, 02_Baystate MB Lab_SBAmaterial, and staff workflows using Lean principles to reduce staff fatigue and sample test turnaround times. These factors led to an organization consisting of a large open lab surrounded by offices, support spaces, and a small high containment lab.

The energy-efficient lighting design approach utilizes clerestory windows to share light between the core and perimeter spaces and highlight the vibrant accent colors.

SBA’s design team included Kirsten Waltz, AIA, EDAC, LEED AP, project executive; Harvey Kirk, AIA, lab planner, and principal-in-charge; and Luke Thiboutot, AIA, design architect.