SMBH Does That: Research Edition

As self-proclaimed building enthusiasts (nerds), our appreciation of research and lab facilities runs deep. The unique challenges they pose fuel our excitement and drive to bring the structure to life. We like getting into the weeds with equipment requirements, like loading and vibration criteria. We want to talk at length about isolated areas and their HVAC systems with more stringent air change requirements. We're fascinated with making flexible spaces to accommodate future changes as a lab evolves over time with new processes and technologies.

With a rich history of designing well over a hundred laboratories and research facilities, SMBH has proven its expertise in the field. Our portfolio is a testament to our versatility, including new buildings, additions, renovations, and investigations for a diverse range of clients, from private entities to higher education institutions and state departments. We have worked on facilities of all kinds, including medical, research, biomedical, engineering, botanic, zoologic, commercial, and scientific.

One such project was Ohio State University's Biomedical and Materials Engineering Complex + Fontana Lab. The building has been open since 2022, but we are thrilled to share these beautiful new photos of the facility. How could we not? They're so pretty!

The project was a total renovation of the old Koffolt Laboratory and Fontana Laboratory, formerly two adjoining buildings that were physically attached to an additional supporting building that shares MEP systems, and replacing the existing high bay space with a new addition. They house the departments of Materials Science and Engineering and Biomedical Engineering. The scope included site utilities, hazardous materials abatement, selective demolition, and new construction typically associated with an extensive renovation of laboratory buildings over 50 years old. The renovated spaces include classrooms, teaching labs, research labs, offices, conference spaces, and support spaces.

We hope you enjoy this eye candy as much as we have! Now, excuse us while we go order prints.