University of Maine, Cooperative Extension Diagnostic and Research Laboratory

Orono, Maine

Firm

WBRC Architects Engineers

Client

University of Maine

Area

28,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$8,400,000

Completion Date

08/2018

Greg Premru

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Design Team: WBRC: Kristian Kowal, AIA; Paul Monyok, PE; Adam Gillespie, PE; Dan Monroe, PE; Stephanie Laplant, PE; Perkins and Will: Jeffrey Zynda; Timothy Sweeney, RA, LEED AP

University of Maine Cooperative Extension Diagnostic and Research Laboratory provides state-of-the-art testing and research in support of Maine agriculture, wildlife, and public health. The lab’s major renovation and expansion was led by WBRC Architects Engineers in collaboration with lab design expert Perkins and Will.

The nature of the laboratory’s work with pests and pathogens means safety was the top design priority. The design embraces the idea of openness and engagement through visual connections between spaces and to the outdoors—something that is uncommon for facilities of its type. Interior windows drive sightlines through one laboratory into another. This provides a sense of connection between labs that must be separated for operational reasons. Interior glazing also offers safe visitor observation of sensitive processes.

For the biocontainment area of the lab, specialized programming includes a secure, restricted entry system with interlocking doors, pass-through cabinets and autoclaves, class II biosafety cabinets, sustained pressure differential directional airflow, and a separately engineered HVAC system. The result is a high-tech, user-friendly, safety-focused resource serving the university and the people of Maine.