Lorenz Consult hands over research center in Seestadt Aspern

New research and development location in Seestadt Aspern. © LOVE architecture and urbanism ZT GmbH, Lorenz Consult

The Graz-based engineering firm Lorenz Consult has handed over the new construction for a research and development site with approximately 26,000 m² gross floor area in the Seestadt Aspern in Vienna to the client. As the general planner, Lorenz Consult has been responsible since October 2021 for overall coordination, project management, structural planning, MEP planning, building design, as well as local construction supervision and construction coordination according to BauKG. With construction costs in the three-digit million range, it is the largest project in laboratory construction in Lorenz Consult's over 50-year company history.

The "Labor of the Future" includes modern laboratory and office spaces for around 250 employees of an internationally active biopharmaceutical company. In addition to highly specialized laboratories for research and development, open-plan offices as well as communal and infrastructure areas were realized. The research focus areas at the site include neuroscience, oncology, gastroenterology, and rare diseases.

Highly flexible ballroom concept for adaptable research processes

A central technical feature of the project was the ballroom concept in laboratory room planning. This aims to increase the flexibility and efficiency of laboratory processes. The laboratories were designed so that all process steps are carried out with uniform classification and the rooms can be flexibly equipped with apparatus and systems depending on research requirements. The modular building concept also allows for future expansions and adjustments to changing requirements of the research and development teams.

Integrated overall planning with broad specialist coordination

The general planning also included the management of specialized sub-planners from electrical engineering, laboratory planning, building physics, fire protection, and architecture.

"For a project of this size and complexity, coordination between all disciplines is crucial. Especially given the implementation period of just under five years, site-specific conditions in Seestadt Aspern, and strict pharmaceutical requirements, precise interface coordination between all involved parties was necessary," explains DI Christian Lorenz, Managing Director of Lorenz Consult.

TQB certification and energy concept: The building is certified as a Total Quality Building (TQB) and meets requirements for accessibility, comfort, and ecological aspects. The energy supply includes geothermal energy as well as a full-surface photovoltaic system on the roof. Greening and garden areas are part of the building concept.

"With the 'Labor of the Future,' we were able to realize a research site that is technically, functionally, and ecologically highly demanding, creating optimal conditions for pioneering development work," says DI Christian Lorenz.