Because construction was about to start on a larger renovation for Tulane University, a few departments were going to be displaced from their existing labs. A section of the former Tulane Hospital was selected to create updated labs to temporarily house these departments, a project that required quick completion to ensure the continuity of other projects. The 4th-floor space, previously a physical therapy suite, was transformed into a large, cohesive lab area. The original walls, which divided the suite into exam and specialized rooms, were demolished to create an open space organized into distinct zones.

An open write-up zone along the exterior wall was designed for documentation and desk work, separated by a large window wall from the open lab space. This configuration allows natural light to flood the area and maintains visual connectivity between the write-up and lab zones. The lab space itself houses benches and equipment for experimentation and testing, while the third zone includes enclosed areas for specialty lab equipment such as culture rooms and freezer farms, which require specific conditions like air pressure control and vibration isolation.

Construction took place in an active hospital environment, necessitating careful coordination for under-slab work in occupied spaces. The 7,889-square-foot buildout features high-end labs with extensive casework, laboratory gas systems, two fume hoods, stainless steel welded ductwork for exhaust, and associated offices and write-up areas. Additional structural steel was incorporated to support new mechanical equipment. Despite challenges, including working in an active hospital and adhering to a tight timeline, the entire project was completed within three months, showcasing effective planning and execution.

Once the larger project is completed and these users move from this temporary location, the labs will be used to expand research and growth at the University.

Thank you to our mechanical and electrical consultant, Huseman & Associates.

And to the contractor, Donahue Favret Contractors, for managing the complexity and time  frame of the project.