OTC Pharmaceutical

Project Summary:
Location:	OTC Pharmaceutical Analytic and Formulation
Lab Functions:	OTC Pharmaceutical Analytic and Formulation
Project Scope:	270,000 sq. ft. (3 floors)
Architect:	Ewing Cole Cherry Brot Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Laboratory Furnishings and Equipment:	MAX/Wall® Technical Wall System MAX/Lab® Adaptable Furniture System Accent™ Flush Overlay Horizon® Clear View Fume Hoods

When one of the nation's largest over-the-counter (OTC) health care companies decided to consolidate and expand its research operations in one location, Hamilton's MAX/Wall Technical Wall System was specified to assure the desired result.

The addition of 180,000 square feet of laboratory and office space in two new buildings—and renovation of another 154,000 square feet within the existing Analytic Research and Development complex on the site—responded to the need for the increased space.

Time saving efficiencies were established as the "Number 1" design criteria for the project, followed closely by quality and flexibility. That meant creating a state-of-the-art facility that could adapt readily to ongoing changes in research projects, procedures and equipment. A furniture system was required that was inherently modular with sufficient under counter storage space.

The final approved design features a central office area flanked by analytical and formulation laboratories. The MAX/Wall Technical Wall System specified in the design, creates a feeling of openness—a transparent environment with communication unrestricted by permanent walls and fixed casework. Even the Horizon fume hoods are clear to enhance visibility. Plus, the entire system is extremely modular—a combination of MAX/Lab Adaptable Furniture System and Accent Flush Overlay (wood) components—and easy to disassemble and reconfigure when things change.

Like any analytic laboratory, the lab is utilities-driven. That means there are numerous services—electrical, plumbing, various kinds of gases, etc.—coming into the building that must be distributed throughout the lab. The MAX/Wall system not only houses all of the supply systems within the wall chases, it also organizes them in a very logical manner. And it does so within the confines of a narrow 6" footprint. Most technical walls on the market are much wider with footprints up to 12 inches. That means MAX/Wall delivers 14 inches of additional worksurface and storage space per linear bench foot. MAX/Wall provides excellent strength and rigidity resulting in a lack of vibration, thus assuring the accuracy of sensitive, calibrated equipment.