West Pharmaceutical Services

West Pharmaceutical Services (West), a global innovator of injectable drug therapies, required a highly flexible and responsive satellite lab to support the growth of research and development programs. Celebrating its 100th Anniversary, the Pennsylvania-headquartered company required a purposeful space within the coveted Philadelphia Cellicon Valley corridor – the mecca for cell and gene therapy research.

The 250 Radnor Life Science Centre in Radnor, PA, was identified as the ideal location to design a lab from a blank canvas. The design of the new hybrid lab / office embraces a mobile, but highly collaborative workforce, facilitating ease of movement between labs and collaboration areas that allow for cross pollination between groups. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring natural daylight into the open areas of the environment creating a modern vibe, supporting well-being and stimulating creativity. Strategically placed acoustic ceiling features and lighting were installed at collaborative zones, enhanced with a hexagonal geometric pattern feature throughout.

BSL-1 and BSL-2 labs were essential elements of the design to manage biological and biomedical materials supported by facility infrastructure, including dedicated outdoor air units, acid neutralization as well as common consumables storage and waste disposal areas. Additional build-out elements feature a work/machine shop, gas manifold closets and a space for future expansion.

The R&D lab is part of the company’s $40 million global expansion to accelerate new therapies for partners and patients. The space is a direct response to new ways of collaboration with its workforce, research community and visiting academics. Mobility and functionality will work to attract talent and investment. The full scope of the project was successful to achieve LEED® Certification.