University of California Irvine: Engineering the Future of Life Science Facilities

Project Snapshot
  • Client: LCS Constructors / Higher Education
  • Completion: March 2024
  • MEP Construction Value: $5.57M
  • Size: 11,700 SF of future‑ready lab space

Built

Different

At P2S, we’re future-focused, innovative problem solvers—on a mission to design a better future, every day . That mission came to life in the heart of UC Irvine’s Hewitt Hall, where we reinvented a constrained basement into a state-of-the-art cGMP lab—while labs above stayed fully functional.

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Our Success

P2S transformed a tight UC Irvine basement into a state-of-the-art, FDA-compliant cGMP lab—without interrupting research. With smart design, sustainable systems, and built-in resilience, we delivered 11,700 SF of future-ready lab space, engineered for today and built for what’s next.

Built Different

“Tight spaces. High stakes. High-impact results.”

When LCS Constructors challenged us to create a world-class lab in a live environment, we answered with precision-engineered confidence:

Blueprint Predecessors

With advanced Revit modeling, we crafted a mezzanine and catwalk that nestles eight air handling units, process gas and acid-waste piping, electrical systems, and more into underused vertical space.

Smart Sustainability

Low-velocity cooling coils, control–centric outside-air units, and optimized LED lighting became standard—reducing energy demand without compromising performance.

Reliability Engineering

Redundant exhaust and relief fans, plus a 300 kW generator and 100 kVA UPS, built resilience into the system from day one.

Built Better

“Engineering excellence. Operational excellence.”

Result? A fully operational, FDA-compliant lab where design supports science—quietly, reliably, proudly.

Seamless Integration

We installed utilities in real time, under live research conditions, with no downtime—protecting existing insectaries and labs throughout construction.

Performance in Practice

Our variable-pressure AHUs, extensive ductwork, and acid-waste piping weren’t just designed—they were engineered for cGMP precision, ensuring quality and compliance.

Energy-Smart Systems

Combined efficiency from low-velocity coils, demand-responsive HVAC, and LED lighting slashed energy consumption without sacrificing lab readiness.

Resilience Embedded

A generator and UPS ensure uptime, while redundant mechanical systems guarantee safety even during maintenance or power events.

Built for What's Next

“Today’s build is tomorrow’s legacy.”

In short—this facility isn’t just built for now; it’s built for what’s next.

Scalable for innovation: Seven ISO-rated production rooms, quality-control labs, autoclaves, quarantine spaces, and a 11,700 SF footprint—all designed for future expansion.

Research-grade trifecta: From cell & gene therapy production to freezer farms and office hubs, every space is adaptable as research evolves.

Strategic alignment: UCI’s College of Medicine now boasts infrastructure that supports frontier life sciences—fueling its position at the vanguard of biomedical advancement.

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See how we can transform your next project.

P2S designs high-performance building systems, infrastructure, and central plants that reduce operating costs while providing optimal indoor conditions and user comfort.
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