Diagnostic laboratories demand an uncompromising standard of accuracy. These are environments where the timely identification of pathogens, conditions, or anomalies can directly influence clinical decisions and public health outcomes. At Area Laboratories, we apply our expertise to design and engineer diagnostic lab spaces that are meticulously planned and optimised for optimal performance.
From specimen reception to automated analysis and results reporting, every zone is designed to streamline workflows, minimise cross-contamination risks, and support the integrity of each test. Our approach ensures that critical diagnostic equipment, such as centrifuges, incubators, and PCR systems, is placed with both ergonomics and efficiency in mind.
Diagnostic laboratories must meet regulatory standards due to the associated risks of handling biological materials and ensure the safety of all staff and personnel. Therefore, the modern design of a diagnostic lab needs to incorporate unique safety features while remaining functional.
We incorporate critical safety infrastructure, ranging from HVAC systems to waste management systems, to reduce airborne risks and ensure the safe disposal of biological materials. Our experienced team will work with our clients to create a truly transparent and compliant laboratory space, allowing them to prioritise research and innovation.
Diagnostics is forever an evolving field, and a modern laboratory must be designed intelligently to navigate these changes and challenges. At Area Laboratories, we integrate forward-looking technologies to help futureproof diagnostic spaces whilst aligning with your long-term business goals.
Our labs are designed with the infrastructure necessary to support technologies, including digital pathology, automation, and emerging AI-assisted diagnostic technologies. Our teams blend their eye for innovation with their deep understanding of the industry to develop diagnostic labs that meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s potential.
We create diagnostic laboratories for clients throughout the UK and across mainland Europe. Speak to us about your lab design requirements and we can get the journey started.
We ensure we design and build customised solutions that optimise workflow and productivity for your laboratory space
We have years of expertise in navigating regulatory requirements and compliance for laboratories
When designing your bespoke laboratory, we incorporate the latest innovative climate control technologies for precise environmental control to help you achieve your goals
When you work with our expert design team, you will receive dedicated support throughout the entire design and implementation process
We have helped a number of clients scale and transition, developing lab designs that produce high-quality research while also aligning with their business goals and growth
A diagnostic laboratory, commonly referred to as a medical laboratory, is used to conduct tests to understand a patient’s health. This can include diagnosing an illness, providing treatment, or preventing diseases.
The design of a diagnostic laboratory is crucial, as it can directly impact the efficiency with which work is completed, the safety of personnel involved, and the accuracy of the research produced.
For example, a well thought out layout of a lab space minimises the risk of cross-contamination, ensuring accurate research.
Similarly, an effective workspace layout will ensure health and safety compliance needs are met and can even provide long-term adaptability if properly considered.
Key considerations include zoning for clean and dirty workflows, air handling and pressure regimes, storage for reagents and specimens, and ergonomic access to critical equipment.
Infrastructure must support temperature and humidity control, infection containment, secure data handling, and the integration of robotics or automation. Compliance with regulatory standards such as ISO 15189 and HTM guidelines is essential. Space efficiency, future flexibility, and operational resilience are also vital.
Overall, there are lots of factors to be considered when designing a diagnostic lab.
The timeline of a diagnostic lab fit-out is dependent on various factors such as the size, operational requirements, and the general complexity of the project. Depending on whether it is a basic lab fit-out or a high-specification lab fit-out, the timeline can vary from a few months to over a year.
Within this timeframe, our team will ensure that you are updated as each stage of the project is meticulously handled, from the initial planning stage through to the final handover.