TheLAB Emeryville is a transformative adaptive reuse project converting a former Sherwin-Williams paint factory—originally built in 1919—into a cutting-edge life science laboratory and office facility. The three-story, 74,000-square-foot structure was revitalized to support the growing biotech demand in the Bay Area.

Construction Scope & Features
This project involved the conversion of an existing brick and concrete structure into a fully modernized facility equipped for life science lab and office use. The work began with substantial seismic upgrades, including reinforcement of the existing foundations and floor beam systems to meet current structural and safety codes.

Following these core improvements, Lusardi Construction managed the full tenant improvement (TI) buildout of the first floor and significant portions of the second and third floors. The interior buildout included lab-ready infrastructure, upgraded mechanical and electrical systems, high-performance HVAC for 100% outside air makeup, and extensive MEP/FP coordination to accommodate flexible lab tenant needs.

The design preserved the building’s historic industrial character while integrating advanced infrastructure such as:
• LEED Gold-certified sustainability features
• WELL Building components for improved occupant health and comfort
• Enhanced energy modeling and efficiency measures
• Cleanroom-ready utility routing and vibration control considerations

Site & Community Enhancements
The development also added a 20-foot-wide pedestrian and bicycle pass-through connecting Horton Street to the adjacent residential community and park, aligning with Emeryville’s broader plan for urban connectivity and walkability.

Awards
2024 AIA San Mateo County Design Awards – Award of Merit: The American Institute of Architects (AIA) San Mateo County chapter honored TheLAB Emeryville with an Award of Merit in 2024. The jury commended the project’s strategic reuse of the existing structure and highlighted the new pedestrian and bicycle pass-through as a generous and bold move for the public, enhancing connectivity and community engagement.

2024 Gold Nugget Awards – Award of Merit for Best Rehabilitation Project: The project also received an Award of Merit in the Best Rehabilitation Project category at the 2024 Gold Nugget Awards, which celebrate excellence in architectural
design and planning.