GMP Research Laboratories

Malaghan Institute - Wellington


Creating research laboratories that meet the requirements of the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) can be challenging for any facility, especially when they are being retrofitted into an existing space that used to be occupied by printing presses. However, this project presented the added challenges of a limited amount of space, an irregular shape and the need to allow visitors to view the science facility without compromising the integrity of the critical laboratory spaces.

The brief from the client was to create the necessary infrastructure for the development of human vaccines against cancer. Providing state-of-the-art laboratories that are specifically designed to facilitate the preparation, processing and culture of tissues for vaccine production and to meet the exacting standards required for GMP.

With only 202m2 of floor area available, the space planning and initial briefing was vitally important to ensure the right result. Rising to this challenge we have been able to successfully incorporate, two Grade B (Class 3.5) Clean Rooms, associated gown up and transition areas, two Physical Containment Level 2 (PC2) laboratories, an open plan office, and freezer and storage areas into a functional high quality facility.

This was made more challenging when you consider the specific plant, equipment and independent air handling systems needed to ensure the environment meets and maintains the exacting standards required.

Despite the functional requirements, the finished facility has been made as user friendly as possible. The use of vision panels, technology and colour all help to provide a sense of connection to the outside world and provide as pleasant an environment to work in as possible.


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