The new B.Labs fit-out of three floors in the Cira Centre is repurposed from previous office space to accommodate life science and research laboratory users. The success of the conversion relied on extensive infrastructure improvements including a fan exhaust/make-up air for lab tenants, new air handler units, addition of an emergency generator, a centralized lab neutralization tank, and enabling work for future lab expansion on five adjacent floors.
The incubator space consists of twenty fully outfitted labs that include fume hoods, bio-safety cabinets, refrigeration, lab benches, RODI water, and a centralized lab vacuum system. Other lab amenities include a centralized cold box, glass wash, autoclave, centrifuge, tissue culture, microscopy, and bio-analytical rooms. At the core, new office and conference spaces were introduced to support the work that happens around the perimeter in the laboratories. A new intercommunicating metal and glass stair stitches the three floors together, with custom millwork accenting the open Hubs and reception area. A green wall brings some welcome nature into the space, and audio/visual components help communicate information to visitors and staff.