Nuffield Laboratories, ZSL, London Zoo

The project involved the complete overhaul of the second-floor laboratory area, which included the removal of old brick walls and lead walls from the former X-ray department. Despite this being a challenging task, we managed to retain ‘live’ services to the occupied areas during the strip-out process.

We then proceeded to create five state-of-the-art laboratories, which were lined with anti-bacterial coatings and laminated walls. The flooring was resin-bonded and bespoke German-manufactured laboratory furniture was installed to provide a comfortable and safe working environment.

To ensure optimum air quality, specialist Swedish air handling units were craned and installed externally on the roof, which provided cooling air units to each individual work unit, inclusive of positive pressure to the RNA and DNA laboratories. In addition, we installed new passive infrared lighting, alarms, and an electronic door control system to provide necessary controls.

We also placed eye wash stations adjacent to each workbench and applied hygienic coatings to all exposed areas to ensure the safety of occupants.

Finally, we refurbished the east stairwell from ground to second floor.

Despite the project being a tightly scheduled 12-week program with unknown structural aspects, Logan Construction completed it in just 11 weeks, much to the client’s delight.