OP completes bright new Reading workspace for access solutions company
10 Dec 2025
OP has been appointed to deliver a comprehensive 9,000 sq ft laboratory expansion for biotech services company Arctoris at their Oxfordshire headquarters.
The project marks the third phase of collaboration between OP and Arctoris, a company that applies cutting-edge laboratory automation and computational approaches to accelerate drug discovery from target to candidate at their HQ in Oxfordshire. The expansion addresses Arctoris's growing need for additional laboratory facilities as their innovative research capabilities continue to scale.
OP is transforming space across two floors of the building, creating purpose-built laboratory environments that support the company's specialised scientific work. The ground floor has already seen the installation of one new laboratory space, while work is currently underway on the mezzanine level to fit out a second laboratory area. The project also incorporates a small office section that breaks through into an adjacent unit, creating seamless connectivity back to Arctoris's existing workspace.
The technical scope of the project reflects the sophisticated requirements of modern biotech research. Key features include specialised rooms designed specifically for protein expression from bacteria, mammalian and insect cell lines as well as unique laboratory machinery tailored to Arctoris's specific research processes and automation focus, as well as a substantial walk-in fridge to support their scientific operations. The comprehensive fit out encompasses new mechanical and electrical systems, flooring, and ceiling installations throughout the expanded spaces.
We're delighted to be continuing our partnership with Arctoris on this latest laboratory expansion. This project demonstrates the technical expertise required to deliver specialised scientific environments that support groundbreaking research. Creating laboratory spaces demands precision and an understanding of the unique operational requirements, and we're proud to be Arctoris's trusted partner as they expand their capabilities in Oxfordshire.
The design efficiently maximises the available footprint by utilising the building's existing mezzanine structure, which was installed during a previous project phase. This strategic approach to space planning enables Arctoris to expand their operational capacity while maintaining the workflow connectivity essential to their collaborative research environment.
The phased approach to delivery has enabled Arctoris to maintain their ongoing research operations while expanding their facilities, with the ground floor laboratory already operational and the mezzanine space currently being fitted out.
The project completion will provide Arctoris with enhanced laboratory infrastructure to support their mission of accelerating drug discovery through automation and computational innovation.
Our partnership with OP has been invaluable as we continue to expand our laboratory capabilities. They understand the precise technical requirements of biotech research environments and have consistently delivered spaces that support our innovative work. We are always delighted to work with OP as we know they will bring creative solutions to our requirements, delivery high quality builds with tight timelines.