The UK’s first neuroinclusive laboratory has opened at Harwell Campus.

Lumen, a newly refurbished 17,000 sq ft fitted laboratory and office building, was developed in conjunction with designers from HOK and The University of West of Scotland.

With support of architects from Fairhursts and inclusive design consultancy Motionspot, the development incorporates:

  • Neurozones to support different neurotypes, working styles and sensory needs.
  • Acoustic treatments and neuroinclusive colour palettes, designed to promote calmness and comfort.
  • Biophilic design, with indoor planting and natural graphics, intended to help create connections to the outdoor world.

Quiet communal zones are designed to encourage focus and rounded bench tops, designed to encourage collaboration, have been integrated into a lab environment for the first time.

Jim Stretton managing director of Harwell Campus, said: “Lumen represents a step change in how we think about science spaces. By setting a new industry standard in inclusive laboratory design, we’re helping our scientists to deliver life-changing research in environments that truly support them.”

Image: Phil Grayston  BondBryan:Fairhursts

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