How to Navigate the Lab Fit-Out Process

Step-by-Step Guide for Efficient, Future-Proofed Lab Design

Fitting out a laboratory is more than selecting furniture—it's a strategic process that demands precision, planning and specialist knowledge. Whether you're designing a new facility or refurbishing an outdated space, a successful LAB FIT OUT ensures safety, improves workflow and supports long-term scientific goals.

At Klick Laboratories, we’ve spent over 40 years helping organisations across research, education, industrial and food & drink sectors create labs that are functional, sustainable and future-ready. This guide walks you through each phase of the lab fit-out journey.

• Define the Laboratory Fit-Out Scope and Objectives
• Before any design work begins, clarify the lab’s purpose and technical needs:

• What activities will take place?
• Who will use the space—and how?
• Is the design adaptable for future expansion?

Early input from stakeholders—especially lab users—helps shape a design that works in practice, not just on paper. This reduces risk and avoids costly layout changes down the line.

2. Plan Laboratory Layouts and Services Strategically

Efficient LAB DESIGN enhances safety and productivity. Our design team focuses on:

• Streamlining: Improving efficiencies by analysing workflows
• Equipment: Planning for specialist equipment, considering size, weight and location
• Storage: Allocating appropriate and accessible space for equipment, chemicals etc.
• Zoning: Separating wet/dry, clean/dirty processes and write-up spaces
• Service access: Integrating power, gas, water and extraction systems efficiently
• Movement: Clear pathways for staff and equipment use
• Sustainability: Selecting sustainable/robust materials & designing efficient spaces
• Collaboration: Consider breakout spaces for scientists and their teams to interact

Our modular and mobile benching systems allow layouts to evolve as your needs change -without a full redesign.

3. Future-Proof Your Lab Design for Business Growth

A future-proof lab supports growth, adapts to new technologies and reduces long-term costs. Klick designs spaces that are:

• Flexible – Modular benching and MOBILE LABORATORY FURNITURE with plug-and-play services
• Durable – High-quality materials reduce waste and replacement
• Adaptable – Space can be reconfigured as team sizes or technologies evolve

Our designs are ideal for start-ups, scaling labs and established organisations alike.

4. Consult with a Specialist Laboratory Fit-Out Partner

A trusted lab fit-out partner brings technical insight and end-to-end coordination. It is important to find a partner who shares your vision and will act as an extension of your team. At Klick Laboratories, we support clients from initial consultation through to completion, covering:

• Laboratory planning and 3D design
• Furniture and materials specification
• Full fit-out services including M&E, specialist gases & HVAC

Our team understands the specific demands of laboratory environments and works closely with clients to solve complex design challenges.

Testimonial

“From the outset, we appreciated their remarkable knowledge and proactive "can-do" attitude…. As we moved forward with phase two of our relocation, there was no question in our minds about asking Klick to join us once again… This decision was not solely based on pricing; it was about finding a partner who genuinely understood our vision and had the expertise to bring it to life.”Tony Havvas – JPL Flavours

5. Choose the Right Materials and Laboratory Furniture

Materials in laboratory environments must be robust, appropriate for any chemical use, hygienic and long-lasting. We offer tailored advice on worktop and furniture solutions, including:

• Trespa TopLab Base – Easy to clean, robust and lasting material where scratch and wear resistance are critical

• Trespa TopLab PLUS ALIGN – Highly resistant to a wide variety of aggressive chemicals, high-performance and lower carbon footprint
• Stainless steel – Ideal for sterile and corrosive environments, suitable for worktops and frameworks

• Epoxy resin – Chemical and stain resistant, robust and easy to clean.

UK manufactured furniture offers reliability of supply chain and a reduced carbon footprint.

6. Minimise Disruption to Your Lab During Installation

There should be minimal disruption to your ongoing operations during the lab installation phase. Ideally select an experienced company with project managers to coordinate every trade, including:

• Electrical work
• Plumbing and drainage
• Specialist gas installations
• HVAC and fume extraction

Klick tailor our schedule to your operational needs and plan work to minimise downtime. Our single-point-of-contact approach streamlines the process and avoids confusion.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Many clients come to us after experiencing these challenges:

• Rushed or incomplete planning
• Mismatched service infrastructure
• Use of non-lab-grade furniture
• Poor communication between contractors

Our structured approach and technical experience prevent these issues, ensuring your fit-out is completed on time and to specification.

Our checklist is a useful resource for anyone planning a laboratory upgrade.

DOWNLOAD KLICK’S LAB FIT OUT PLANNING CHECKLIST

Let Klick Laboratories Guide Your Next Project

From small teaching spaces to full-scale commercial R&D facilities, Klick Laboratories delivers streamlined, high-performance lab environments. Our expert consultants work as an extension of your team—solving complex technical problems and managing the entire fit-out process.