High=Profile: May 2026 | Page 32

32 May 2026

By Cori DiDonato

www

. high-profile. com

The Boston and Cambridge region remains one of the most competitive life sciences real estate markets globally. While demand is recovering, vacancy rates remain elevated compared to the 2019 – 2021 peak. According to CBRE’ s Q4 2025 data, vacancy reached 28 %, even as leasing activity increased to 2.4 million sq. ft. In this environment, laboratory performance— not just location— has become a key differentiator.

A high-performance laboratory is an integrated environment where building systems, laboratory furniture, safety infrastructure, and workflow planning align to maximize scientific productivity, operational efficiency, flexibility, and long-term building performance. Unlike traditional commercial spaces, laboratories are equipment-driven environments. Elements such as fume hoods, casework, benches, and specialized equipment directly influence mechanical systems, spatial planning, and long-term adaptability. As a result, these components must be

Send an email to us at info @ high-profile. com with the words“ add to fastfacts” in the subject line. www. high-profile. com

Adjustable, movable lab workstations with plumbing and electrical services pre-installed integrated early in the design process.

The Role of Laboratory Furniture Systems in High Performance Lab Design

While HVAC and ventilation systems often dominate design discussions, laboratory casework and furniture systems form the operational backbone of the lab environment. These systems directly impact workflow, ergonomics, and adaptability. High-performance laboratories treat furniture as critical infrastructure. Properly designed casework and bench systems improve efficiency, reduce disruption during reconfiguration, and maximize long-term operational flexibility of the space.

Industry standards developed by the Scientific Equipment and Furniture Association( SEFA)— including SEFA 8( casework), SEFA 3( work surfaces), SEFA 10( adaptable systems), and SEFA 9( fume hoods)— establish performance benchmarks for durability, chemical resistance, and structural integrity. SEFA 2 standards guide installation and installation sequencing. Compliance ensures laboratory environments can withstand the demands of life sciences research.

Flexibility Through Modular Design

Modular casework allows repositioning and reconfiguration without significant demolition or waste. Adjustable laboratory benches and mobile workstations also integrate utility distribution systems for power, data, and specialty gases. This allows service connections to move with the furniture rather than requiring modifications to building infrastructure. Work surface materials such as epoxy resin, phenolic resin, and stainless steel— when tested to SEFA standards— provide long-term durability and resistance to a wider range of harsh chemical environments.

In today’ s market, high-performance laboratories are not simply technical achievements, they are strategic real estate assets. Facilities designed for adaptability, durability, and operational efficiency will continue to outperform as the life sciences market evolves.

High-Performance Labs as Real Estate Strategy

For developers and landlords, laboratory design decisions directly impact asset performance. High-performance labs support faster leasing, reduced tenant improvement costs, and greater long-term flexibility. Buildings designed with modular, SEFA-compliant furniture systems and efficient infrastructure can accommodate a broader range of tenants while minimizing future capital expenditures. At the same time, sustainable systems and efficient layouts reduce operating costs— an increasingly important factor in tenant decision-making.

In today’ s market, high-performance laboratories are not simply technical achievements, they are strategic real estate assets. Facilities designed for adaptability, durability, and operational efficiency will continue to outperform as the life sciences market evolves.

Cori DiDonato is chief operating officer at LabFitOut LLC.