Latest Reports

The ideal lab building can flex over time to accommodate each new generation of researchers, with minimal disruption and infrastructure change. Using an approach called the “resilient chassis,” labs are grouped by typologies and placed around a common spine or “chassis” of mechanical/electrical/plumbing (MEP) systems based on zoning and capacity needs. The best location for each lab is determined by grouping labs together that share specialized requirements, such as vibration sensitivities, noise restrictions, lighting or electrical requirements, and instrumentation needs. 

Hybrid workplace strategies continue to make headlines, as some high-profile companies are requiring all employees to return to the office five days a week. Many other companies, such as Stantec, a global architectural engineering firm, continue to embrace the hybrid approach, giving employees the flexibility to work remotely part of the week while fostering in-person collaboration during designated office days. Stantec initially adopted this hybrid approach due to pandemic restrictions, but, after seeing the collaborative and financial benefits, decided to maintain their commitment to supporting hybrid work environments. 

As organizations navigate evolving work models and funding landscapes, strategic facility adaptation has emerged as a core competency. Forward-thinking planners are now formulating space strategies and infrastructure investments that deliver immediate operational value while building long-term flexibility into their portfolios. These dual-impact approaches—addressing today's needs while anticipating tomorrow's requirements—are reshaping how institutions, corporations, and government entities are approaching facility planning. The most-read Tradeline reports from 2025 reflect this shift toward adaptive, future-ready facilities.

The Oregon State University College of Engineering is embarking on a transformative journey to optimize space, enhance research capacity, and create a cohesive environment for students and faculty. Through strategic planning, innovative redesigns, and an emphasis on community engagement, OSU is redefining how legacy buildings can serve modern needs without massive new construction. A major focus of the 10-year plan centers on the university’s “engineering triangle,” a cluster of historic buildings dedicated to engineering research and education. These century-old buildings, while rich in history, are in desperate need of modernization to support the university’s cutting-edge research. While previous years have seen new construction, the next phase will focus on preserving and enhancing existing spaces.

Faced with growing demand to do more with less, animal laboratory managers are looking for opportunities to drive greater efficiencies. One way forward is the use of digitalization to improve energy efficiency as well as asset and space utilization. But tight budgets, the need to improve data collection and analysis, and insufficient numbers of staff trained to operate the new systems are all holding back adoption, according to experts at Siemens Smart Infrastructure.