At Baker Law Group, we have guided clients through research and science facility projects exceeding $150 million, encompassing hundreds of thousands of square feet. These projects are usually highly specialized technical spaces, entail careful coordination among dozens of consultants, and require adherence to complex regulatory and funding terms.
We have experience with laboratory projects, STEM education facilities, and public-private research collaborations.
Large-Scale Research Building Projects
Our firm has negotiated architecture contracts for massive research structures housing academic, clinical, and scientific programs. For example, we advised on a 200,000-square-foot, six-story structure designed to house both healthcare and research programs, for which the architect client’s total basic services fee exceeded $13 million. Such undertakings typically begin with thorough programming, respond to strict development timelines, incorporate green systems such as sewage heat recovery, and coordinate multiple bid packages within tight schedules.
On one project, our client oversaw a cross-disciplinary team of subconsultants, including:
- Structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection (MEP/FP) engineers
- Civil and landscape engineers
- A partner architecture firm
- On-call specialists that included acoustics, lighting, wind tunnel analysis, and environmental graphics
Our services went beyond negotiating AIA Document B103–2017, Agreement Between Owner and Architect for a Complex Project. We also helped work through the nuances of accelerated phasing and consultant risk management. Additionally, we’ve advised clients working directly with public institutions and colleges on STEM-focused educational infrastructure.
Private Sector and R&D Facility Expertise
In the private sector, we’ve negotiated R&D and lab facility tenant build-outs within larger office or mixed-use developments with REITs and private developers. These are challenging projects that require the deft integration of scientific programming with commercial leasing requirements, as well as intense negotiation of responsibilities among design team members for base building conditions, lab fit-outs, and FF&E packages.
We have also assisted architecture firms in negotiating master agreements and service orders—like AIA Document B121–2018, Master Agreement Between Owner and Architect for Services, with AIA Document B221–2018, Service Order for use with Master Agreement Between Owner and Architect—to make continual improvements to buildings that are affiliated with research institutions funded by the federal government.
Legal and Business Insights in the Research Sector
Our practice encompasses not only the legal dynamics of contract negotiation but also the broader business landscape upon which our clients must operate. We help drive project completion, target LEED or other sustainability goals, preserve funding compliance, and fend off overreaching claims of liability.
Research and science facility projects are typically prominent and very technical, requiring strategic risk management as well as careful contract implementation. Our work protects clients, promotes good work for a fair price, and positions them for success in some of the most complex institutional environments.
Ready to insulate your next research or science facility project? Let’s discuss how our team can help you manage contracts and protect your interests.
