Tuhiraki Research Facility

AgResearch - Lincoln, Canterbury

As the specialist laboratory architects for Tuhiraki, we played a pivotal role in designing spaces that not only enhance AgResearch’s research capabilities but also foster collaboration and innovation within the scientific community. This purpose-built facility consolidates AgResearch’s Lincoln-based laboratories and corporate offices, creating an environment where groundbreaking research in agricultural science can thrive.

Tuhiraki houses cutting-edge laboratories, including Physical Containment Level 2 (PC2) spaces, enabling researchers to work in controlled environments essential for advanced scientific inquiry. The laboratory zones – Multi-purpose, Non-containment, and PC2 – are carefully structured to support various research teams, facilitating cross-disciplinary interaction and spontaneous collaboration.

A key feature of the design is the inclusion of concierge spaces, allowing researchers to efficiently book and manage laboratory setups, ensuring optimal use of the space. Additionally, ‘Touch-Down’ zones serve as informal meeting areas, encouraging knowledge exchange and interdisciplinary discussions across teams.

To prioritise health and safety, laboratory access is controlled through formal gown-in areas, reinforcing best practices while transitioning between workspaces and laboratory research spaces. Specialist rooms, temperature-controlled environments, and walk-in freezers are strategically placed to support diverse research needs. The PC2 laboratories span two levels, with internal stairs for people movement and a dumbwaiter system ensuring safe and efficient movement of materials.

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