Northborough, MA Aspen Aerogels, Inc. hired OLSON LEWIS + Architects and PIDC Construction to renovate its 28,000 s/f laboratory space into a new Aspen Aerogels Technology Center.

The renovation of the 28,000 s/f laboratory space into the Aspen Aerogels Technology Center is a testament to a commitment to innovation. The project has transformed the existing building into a hub of sustainability and electrification solutions, featuring a variety of laboratory spaces, offices, testing, and prototyping facilities. The updated space also includes a reception, a large cafe, gathering spaces, reservable virtual meeting rooms, open offices, and a large meeting room designed to foster collaboration and creativity. These updates, including branded environmental graphics, have not only transformed the look and feel of the space but also aligned it with the Aspen Aerogels brand.

The successful completion of the Aspen Aerogels Technology Center is the result of a strong partnership between Aspen Aerogels, OLSON LEWIS + Architects, and PIDC Construction. The design team, in close collaboration with the Aspen Aerogels team, defined the project’s program requirements and completed multiple test fits with required specific program adjacencies and mechanical requirements. This collaborative approach ensured that the final design met the needs of Aspen Aerogels and its stakeholders. 

OLSON LEWIS + Architects designed the project with sustainability in mind, including the various finish products, from low-VOC paint to recycled products. In collaboration with PIDC, the team was able to source salvaged frameless glass wall system components and light fixtures from other renovations in the collaborator’s concurrent projects. The design-build team enabled this intentional materials specification and circular economy adaptive reuse, contributing to the project’s success and meeting financial and environmental goals.

Sustainable Innovation
Aspen is a technology leader in sustainability and electrification solutions. The company’s aerogel technology enables its customers and partners to achieve their own objectives around the global megatrends of resource efficiency, e-mobility, and clean energy. Aspen’s PyroThin products enable solutions to thermal runaway challenges within the electric vehicle (EV) market. Aspen Battery Materials, the company’s carbon aerogel initiative, seeks to increase the performance of lithium-ion battery cells to enable EV manufacturers to extend the driving range and reduce the cost of EVs. The company’s Cryogel and Pyrogel products are valued by the world’s largest energy infrastructure companies. Aspen’s strategy is to partner with world-class industry leaders to leverage its Aerogel Technology Platform into additional high-value markets.

Project Team:
• Aspen Aerogels, Inc. - Owner;
• OLSON LEWIS + Architects - Architect, Interior Design, Environmental Graphics;
• PIDC Construction - General Contractor;
• Environmental Systems, Inc. - Mechanical Contractor and Engineer;
• Electrical Systems Engineering, Inc. - Electrical Engineers;
• Engineered Systems, Inc. - Plumbing and Fire Protection;
• Code Red Consultants - Code Consultants; and
• Exposure Lighting - Lighting, Controls, & Electrical Representative.