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FDA Forensic Chemistry Center
Cincinnati, Ohio
The new FDA Cincinnati District Office and National Forensic Chemistry Center represents the state-of-the-art in laboratory design. A unique application of technical and planning solutions maximizes laboratory flexibility and facilitates efficiency of operation. Located on a wooded, 8-acre site within the Institute of Advanced Manufacturing Sciences (IAMS) Research park on the northeastern edge of Cincinnati, Ohio, the building and site orientation augments the site’s natural characteristics, while minimizing the disruption of existing landscape features. The 65,000 square foot facility includes first class forensic chemistry testing laboratories, administrative and laboratory technician office space, laboratory support and employee amenities, and secured underground parking.
Epstein addressed highly specific programmatic and technical requirements, by creating a facility design that provides the flexibility for future lab modification and expansion. The clearly organized building plan focuses on a common circulation spine which connects laboratory modules with the district’s administrative office zone. This spine is a dramatic double height space that becomes the organizing link between the lab blocks by combining personnel circulation with accessible overhead distribution of main utility and service feeds to the labs. Throughout the facility, a network of communication is provided for both formal and informal meeting spaces, since the best resource for a researcher is another researcher.
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