Space Planning – Akili Labs

Akili Labs, is a pathology and research start-up laboratory based in Johannesburg, South Africa,  that develops rapid diagnostic systems to improve healthcare globally and improve quality of life and healthcare. We were tasked to transform their workspace with a combination of space planning, company interior design and construction services. 

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

Services Rendered: Laboratory and Workspace Design and Fit-Out

Objectives/Challenges

The company approached our team with a vision to create a modern and dynamic working environment that reflects their company identity and supports their rapidly expanding team. The project involved the design, space planning and fit-out of a new laboratory and adjacent office space in Kyalami, Midrand, with a focus on enhancing productivity, maintaining regulatory compliance, and fostering a youthful and innovative atmosphere.

Solution

We began working together with the client, proposing solutions that would help increase their scientific productivity and aid in the development of their workplace concept through space planning, enabling their rapidly expanding team and to enhance the way they work.

Throughout the design, the choice of materials used in finishing set a clinical mood of medical cleanliness in the interior while upholding the maturity of their industry and youthfulness of the Akili brand.

Key Features 

1. Well-Lit and Productive Workspace: The laboratory space was designed to be well-lit and structured to increase productivity while upholding regulatory compliance. The choice of materials in finishing set a mood of medical cleanliness while reflecting the maturity of the industry and the youthfulness of the Akili brand.

2. Flexible Lab-Enabled Workspace: Due to the nature of their work, a flexible lab-enabled workspace was created to meet strict ISO technical standards. The space was structured, equipped, operated, and maintained for optimal performance, enabling Akili Labs to adapt to evolving research needs.

3. Custom Air Cleanliness Solution: Working closely with Vivid Air, specialists in air cleanliness solutions, a custom-designed clean air system was installed to meet ISO/EN standards. The solution addressed cleanliness and temperature requirements while maintaining industrial chic aesthetics.

Key Performances by Team Members

Our multidisciplinary team, including laboratory specialists, designers, MEP engineers, technology experts, furniture suppliers, air filtration specialists, and construction professionals, worked collaboratively to ensure the success of the project. Key performances included:

– Laboratory Specialists: Ensured compliance with ISO technical standards and regulatory requirements.

– Designers: Created a modern and youthful workspace concept aligned with Akili Labs’ brand identity.

– Vivid Air Specialists: Designed and installed a custom air cleanliness solution tailored to the unique layout and requirements of the laboratory.

– Construction Experts: Overcome challenges such as installing a clean air system and sealing light fittings to maintain air quality and compliance.

Client Feedback

Akili Labs expressed satisfaction with the project outcomes, noting the seamless integration of innovative design solutions and the successful creation of a workspace that reflects their company ethos and supports their team’s growth and productivity. They particularly appreciated the attention to detail in addressing regulatory considerations and the collaborative approach of the project team.

In conclusion, the Akili Labs laboratory and workspace design project exemplifies the successful execution of a comprehensive and innovative space planning and design solution tailored to meet the unique needs and vision of a growing pathology and research start-up in South Africa. By prioritising productivity, regulatory compliance, and brand identity, the project has set the stage for continued success and growth for Akili Labs in their mission to improve healthcare globally.

Join us in shaping the future of space planning and interior design. Experience the innovation firsthand at Akili Labs in Johannesburg.

Contact us now to schedule a visit and witness the future of workspace design and innovation!