UofT ESB Laboratories
Complete
Status
Principal-in-Charge: Alan Fraser
Project Manager: Jesika Steprans
Project Team
University of Toronto
Client
Approx. 220 m2
Area of Work
The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) at the University of Toronto Occupies a series of research spaces located within two buildings, the Ramsay Wright Laboratories Building and the Earth Sciences Centre (ESC), where much of the department's internationally recognized work in biodiversity research is conducted. ENFORM was engaged to reimagine three existing laboratories, creating contemporary research spaces that support evolving scientific practices while respecting the constraints of an occupied academic facility.
The project presented an opportunity to transform aging laboratories through the introduction of flexible, researcher-centered infrastructure. New height-adjustable benching systems, adaptable shelving, and durable finish materials were integrated to improve functionality, ergonomics, and long-term adaptability. The use of colours further improves wayfinding and differentiating specific labs from each other. The simple design focused on creating a more resilient and efficient laboratory environment capable of accommodating changing research methodologies without altering the footprint or fundamental use of the spaces.
By carefully modernizing the interiors, ENFORM enhanced the quality and longevity of the research environment, providing a renewed platform for research while aligning the laboratories with current institutional and environmental health and safety standards