Diatech Laboratories by Andrea Tabocchini: A Contemporary Workplace for Precision Medicine Innovation

Located in Iesi, the Diatech Laboratories project byAndrea Tabocchini Architecture redefines the concept of a modern research facility. Designed for Diatech Pharmacogenetics, a leader in pharmacogenetics and cancer precision medicine, the project merges advanced laboratory functionality with an inspiring and identity-driven workspace.

Spanning 1,200 square meters, this laboratory architecture project transforms an existing industrial ground-floor space into a dynamic environment that balances scientific rigor with spatial creativity. The design approach focuses on preserving the building’s original structural elements: such as prefabricated flooring, exposed concrete columns, and a glazed façade, while introducing a refined and contemporary spatial language.

Adaptive Reuse and Spatial Organization

A key aspect of the project is its adaptive reuse strategy, which enhances sustainability while maintaining the industrial character of the original structure. The layout is carefully divided into two primary zones: a functional warehouse area positioned to the north and a flexible research and office space to the south. This zoning ensures operational efficiency while allowing for future adaptability, an essential feature in laboratory design and institutional architecture.

The project exemplifies how industrial architecture can evolve into high-performance research environments without compromising its original identity. This approach aligns with current trends in sustainable architecture and workspace innovation.

Glazed Laboratory Volumes as the Spatial Core

At the heart of the design lies a striking composition of three glazed laboratory volumes. Elevated on a solid podium, these transparent structures become the visual and functional centerpiece of the workspace. By lifting the laboratories both physically and symbolically, the architects transform typically concealed research spaces into a focal point of openness and collaboration.

A reflective aluminum backdrop enhances the visual impact of these volumes, amplifying natural light and creating a refined, luminous atmosphere. This interplay of transparency and reflection contributes to a sense of precision, clarity, and technological sophistication, key qualities in contemporary laboratory architecture.

Flexible Workspaces and Material Innovation

Adjacent to the laboratory core, an L-shaped collaborative area introduces a more informal and dynamic work environment. Furnished with vibrant elements, this space encourages creativity, interaction, and knowledge exchange among researchers and staff. The design successfully integrates formal laboratory functions with flexible workspaces, reflecting evolving workplace trends.

Materiality plays a crucial role in defining spatial transitions. Reflective aluminum panels gradually shift into expanded metal sheets, creating subtle perceptual variations that distinguish different functional zones. This layered material strategy enhances both aesthetics and user experience while maintaining visual coherence throughout the project.

Modular Design and Lighting Precision

The entire project is governed by a modular grid system, reinforcing a sense of order, precision, and efficiency, qualities essential in scientific environments. Architectural elements, furniture placement, and lighting fixtures are all aligned with this grid, ensuring consistency and clarity in spatial organization.

Lighting design follows the same structured approach, contributing to both functionality and ambiance. The result is a well-balanced environment that supports technical activities while fostering comfort and visual harmony.

A Future-Ready Laboratory Environment

Diatech Laboratories stands as an example of innovative workplace design that responds to both present needs and future challenges. The project seamlessly integrates industrial heritage with contemporary architectural strategies, creating a space that is at once technological and poetic, functional and expressive.

By combining adaptive reuse, transparent laboratory design, flexible workspaces, and refined materiality, Andrea Tabocchini has crafted a research environment that reflects the evolving nature of scientific workspaces. The result is a laboratory that not only supports cutting-edge research but also enhances human interaction, creativity, and well-being.

All photographs are works of  Marcello Mariana