New tenants for new customized labs

This BioMed Realty (BMR) project featured the conversion of two 62,000-square-foot office buildings on the Wateridge Campus to support growing life science operations in San Diego’s booming market. The original scope of work included the development of multiple spec suites, the addition of electric car charging stations, and improvements to the lobbies, restrooms, elevators, and exterior façade.

The project started out by developing 32,000 square feet of the first floor of building 10421 into 2 separate suites. OAC managed the TI customizations for both suites, which included upgrades to the lab process plumbing equipment, infrastructure for a new nitrogen generator, modifications to the open lab, and conversion of office space to warehouse space to support the tenants’ work.

To minimize disruption, we implemented a phased approach to support the leasing team while the buildings were occupied by tenants. What did this look like? Staggered shifts and “quiet times” were created to mitigate any noise impacts. Strong communication with the property management staff and tenants was crucial to the project’s success, and we informed them of weekly activities throughout the project’s duration.

With COVID-19, we faced slower city approval times, tenant revisions, and supply chain issues. Finishing design and permitting early on helped alleviate some of these obstacles. We delivered the first project phase on time and on budget, helping tenants’ research thrive.

*Photo Credit: 2020 BioMed Realty, L.P. All Rights Reserved