Biotech Growth Leads to Move-In Ready Spec Spaces

Growth of the biotech industry particularly in the San Diego market has made it quite challenging for companies to find sufficient lab space to meet increasing R&D investment demands. To solve this issue, builders are constructing standardized move-in ready spec suites, enabling companies to begin R&D more promptly versus waiting for a build-to-suit solution, according to Joe Grosshart, president of Good & Roberts LLC.

“An emphasis on time and cost savings also contributes to the number of companies opting to repurpose existing buildings,” says Grosshart. “In Southern California alone, 52 percent of life science clients are choosing to convert existing space rather than build an R&D lab from the ground up. But oftentimes, this is easier said than done. As a contractor, it is our responsibility to consider the limitations of an existing space and work closely with the architect to assess the feasibility of a space conversion.”

For example, medical labs require a larger amount of interstitial space to accommodate electrical and mechanical design. This extra space above the ceiling is vital to make room for ductwork for AC/heating systems, piping for medical gasses and specialty fluids or materials, says Grosshart.