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TMU Lab Renovation

CASE STUDY

Project Background

Toronto Metropolitan University, one of Canada’s leading higher education institutions, sought to modernize and enhance its facilities to meet the growing demand for innovative and effective science teaching and laboratory spaces. The existing lab spaces were outdated, inefficient, and did not meet the modern requirements for collaborative, hands-on learning experiences.

TMU engaged Unlimited Building Solutions to lead the renovation of a key student science lab located within their Science and Technology Building. The goal was to transform the space into a modern, adaptable, and technologically advanced environment that would facilitate innovative research, support interdisciplinary learning, and provide students with a world-class educational experience.

Objectives

  • Enhance Educational Experience: Create a collaborative, flexible, and technology-driven learning environment for students and faculty.
  • Increase Functionality: Upgrade the lab layout to accommodate new equipment, modern safety features, and more efficient workflows.
  • Compliance: Ensure that all renovations meet the latest health and safety standards, as well as educational and building code regulations.

Challenges

  1. Complex Systems: The existing infrastructure, including plumbing, electrical, and ventilation systems, required significant updates to meet current lab standards and safety requirements.
  2. Space Limitations: The existing floor plan was constrained, making it difficult to maximize usable space for both lab workstations and collaborative areas.
  3. Specialized Requirements: The lab needed to support various scientific disciplines, which required custom design and installation of specialized workbenches, fume hoods, and laboratory equipment.

Solutions Provided

Unlimited Building Solutions worked closely with TMU’s facilities management team, architects, and engineers to deliver a comprehensive renovation that met all the university’s needs. Key aspects of the solution included:

1. Space Planning & Layout Optimization

  • Redesigning the Floor Plan: A thorough assessment of the existing space was conducted, followed by a detailed reconfiguration of the floor plan. The lab was divided into distinct zones to support different types of work—wet labs, dry labs, equipment storage, and collaborative areas.
  • Flexible Workstations: Modular lab furniture was installed to provide flexibility for future course or research needs.
  • Accessibility & Safety: Walkways were expanded for better accessibility, and safety features such as emergency eyewash stations, fire suppression systems, and clear exit routes were incorporated.

2. Upgrading Systems & Infrastructure

  • HVAC & Ventilation: The ventilation system was completely redesigned to ensure that the lab met the necessary standards for air quality and safety, including fume hoods for chemical safety and proper airflow for sensitive experiments.
  • Plumbing & Water Systems: New plumbing was installed to accommodate the latest lab equipment, including sinks with specialized fixtures and water filtration systems for specific experiments.

Project Outcome

The renovation of the student science lab at Toronto Metropolitan University was a resounding success. Key outcomes include:

  • Enhanced Learning Experience: Students now have access to a state-of-the-art, flexible lab environment that supports both individual and group learning. The updated space encourages creativity, collaboration, and innovation.
  • Improved Operational Efficiency: Faculty members and students reported a significant improvement in lab operations due to the new layout, enhanced safety features, and upgraded technology. The lab now supports a wider range of scientific disciplines and research activities.
  • Compliance with Safety Standards: The lab is fully compliant with current health, safety, and regulatory standards, ensuring a safe environment for all users.

Conclusion

The successful renovation of the student science lab at Toronto Metropolitan University stands as a testament to Unlimited Building Solutions’ expertise in delivering high-quality educational facility renovations. By focusing on the specific needs of TMU, providing innovative design solutions, and adhering to a tight timeline, Unlimited Building Solutions transformed the space into a cutting-edge laboratory that supports the university’s mission of providing an outstanding education for its students.

To learn how Unlimited Building Solutions can transform your educational spaces, contact us at info@unlimitedbuilding.com.