Designing for science
Novus Space is my specialist architectural consultancy, helping organisations translate scientific ambition into practical, adaptable workplaces for research, discovery and innovation.
I’m Adrian Gainer, an architect and laboratory designer with 36 years’ specialist experience. Since founding Novus Space in 2017, I’ve delivered more than 100 projects for over 30 clients.
Key services
— Technical briefing and stakeholder engagement
— Feasibility studies and laboratory test fits
— Laboratory planning and design
— Strategic advice and specialist review
— Evaluation and space utilisation
Adrian Gainer
I work directly with universities, research organisations, healthcare providers and science businesses, as well as architects, developers and contractors. Clients draw on my experience throughout the commission, with specialist laboratory input shaped around the needs of their project and wider team.
A central part of my work is writing and interpreting technical design briefs. I bring together scientific workflows, operational requirements and user needs, then develop these into laboratory planning and design solutions that clients and their project teams can take forward.
My experience spans biology, chemistry, physics and engineering sciences across the UK, Europe, the United States and Asia.
Understanding the science and the working day
A laboratory brief needs to explain how the science will be carried out and what people need to work effectively.
I work from the bench outwards, considering equipment, circulation, storage and support spaces alongside the wider building. Conversations with researchers, technicians, laboratory managers and facilities teams help establish requirements and priorities.
Planning for changing science
Automation, robotics and increasingly data-intensive research raise questions about workflows, servicing and the relationship between experimental and computational space. I explore these implications with clients at the briefing stage, considering what is needed now and which future changes are worth preparing for.
My approach also considers the responsible use of space and resources, inclusive access and the everyday experience of working in a scientific environment.
Connecting briefing, design and evaluation
My work brings together early analysis and briefing, laboratory planning and design, evaluation of spaces in use, and research that informs future projects.
If you are developing a laboratory brief, assessing potential premises, refurbishing an existing facility or reviewing a design, I would welcome a conversation.
