Client: Eng. Tavafi
Design: ARCHMED Consulting Engineers
Lead Architects: Bardiya Moattar, Elnaz Kazemi
Design Team: Fatemeh Omid, Amir Jafarkhan
Mechanical: Iman Younesi
Electrical: Mohammadreza Nasiri
3D renders: Fatemeh Omid
Graphic: Alireza Yazdizadeh
Design Timeline: June 2021-September 2021
Construction: Spectra architecture LLC
Construction Manager: Alireza Firouz
Construction Timeline: September 2021-March 2022
Supervision: ARCHMED Consulting Engineers
Supervision Team: Bardiya Moattar, Elnaz Kazemi, Amir Jafarkhan, Iman Younesi, Mohammadreza Nasiri
Photographer: Amir Nasibi
Project Description:
Bion Laboratory, the first private genetic lab in the heart of Muscat, Oman’s capital, was designed and established as a milestone in the development of private medical infrastructure in the country. The initial building that now houses the lab was originally a sports club, which was repurposed into a modern and advanced facility. This adaptive reuse presented unique challenges specific to the nature and needs of a genetics laboratory, which were addressed in the design.
One of the major challenges was the low ceiling height, which could have posed a significant obstacle to the installation of complex and bulky laboratory equipment and the routing of utilities through the false ceiling. The design team effectively solved this issue by routing the utilities along the perimeter of the space, a solution that not only preserved the aesthetic appeal of the interior but also allowed for optimal use of the limited ceiling height.
Another outstanding feature of this project is the use of glass partitions in the interior design. These partitions not only help in dividing the space but also provide patients and visitors with a direct view of the laboratory processes. This transparency in design fosters a sense of trust and confidence in patients, reflecting the lab's commitment to maintaining high standards of hygiene and cleanliness.
Another design challenge was the large number of sewage pipes that would typically be housed in the false ceiling of the floor below. However, due to structural limitations and ongoing activities on the lower floor, the designers addressed this by creating a raised floor on the same level and routing the sewage through the double-layer walls. This solution not only ensured technical functionality but also helped maintain the integrity of the interior design.
In conclusion, Bion Laboratory stands as a successful example of adaptive reuse, showcasing innovative design and attention to technical details that have created an efficient and modern space for genetic research. This project achieves an optimal balance between functional requirements and aesthetic considerations.