Design guidelines for the functional efficiency of laboratory facilities

This paper presents the development of design guidelines to improve the functional efficiency of academic and research laboratory facilities. The study was carried out in four stages, firstly, key performance indicators for the functional performance of laboratory facilities were identified. Furthermore, the space syntax theory was used to identify the functional performance issues of selected case studies, and a post occupancy evaluation (POE) was also carried out to obtain users' feedback on these case studies. Finally, design guidelines containing functional elements were assessed through a five-point Likert scale questionnaire survey, and analysed using the Relative Importance Index (RII). Sample drawings based on the guidelines were developed and reviewed by 10 professional architects. The study resulted in 31 design guidelines, grouped into 5 categories, including 'space', 'access/circulation', 'building features', 'design for disabled users', and 'design for flexibility'. The RII values showed that the top three most important design guidelines included 'ease of identifying emergency or escape route' (97.78%), 'additional space for knee and chair space under the benches' (93.33%), 'adequate teaching equipment, such as a bookstand and marker board’s storage space for student microscopes, book bags and coats' (93.33%), and 'designated office space' (89.09%). Though design guidelines exist for laboratory facilities. The current study approaches the subject matter through a triangulation of methodologies. It also re-emphasizes the need for research and development to support the evolving requirements of modern laboratory facilities. It has the specific contribution of complementing existing standards and guidelines in the design of laboratory facilities.