Early Sustainability Planning in Research Laboratory Design

By Noble Lilliestierna

The early phases of the design process, such as programming and planning efforts, are typically exercises to get the entire team on the same page concerning programmatic priorities and budget limitations. Additionally, these early phases should also be approached through a lens of sustainability.

If done correctly, the process will focus on the benefits of program efficiency (avoiding overbuilding), creating functional adjacencies (shared spaces), planning for efficient systems (sustainable and green), and getting the best long-term value as well as setting standards for materials, equipment, and the environment.