About

Highline recently partnered with a leading pharmaceutical company to deliver a full remodelling and refurbishment of an R&D laboratory under an NEC contract. Starting from the client’s user brief, we managed the design journey from RIBA Stage 2 concepts through to construction and handover. The 17-week construction programme began with the safe removal of contaminated equipment and redundant services, followed by critical HVAC modifications to ensure compliant extract for LEV containment units, maintain air change rates, and achieve precise negative pressure cascades across laboratory entrances. Additional works included BMS and Vesda upgrades, supplementary cooling, and adjustments to power, data, and drainage systems. Architectural enhancements featured bespoke service bulkheads, smart ceiling pods, new glazed partitions, and custom laboratory furniture, complemented by specialist finishes and signage. A new office space was also created adjacent to the lab. The project was delivered on time, within budget, and to exceptional quality standards earning strong client praise and enabling seamless transition to R&D operations.

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Challenges & Solutions

Key challenges included coordinating client-procured equipment installations, relocating over 250 items from other labs, and managing phased HVAC commissioning and handovers all while accommodating evolving user requirements. Rigorous protocols ensured compliance with specialist systems throughout installation and close-out.