A disadvantage of this arrangement is that eating and drinking is prohibited at most in-laboratory workstations. Desks or cubicles in an open area adjacent to the laboratory. Shared private offices. Typical net sf allocations per person for non-private office space are 40 sf to 80 sf. Common space One of the most significant changes in research-facility design is the increased recognition of the importance of common spaces to the success of the research effort and to the productivity and happiness of researchers and support staff.
Common spaces take many forms, from very small niches to huge atriums.
Non-private work surfaces adjacent to work areas that encourage small groups to pull up a chair and share information and ideas. Casual lounge spaces or niches with comfortable furniture such as sofas that encourage more relaxed collaboration. Break areas where small groups can prepare and share food and drink. Academically oriented communal facilities, such as a library or a map room. Large, department-sized spaces, such as a central atrium, where the entire department can gather.