Andover, MA Vantage Builders, Inc. has announced the completion of a corporate headquarters expansion for NEOLab, a full-service orthodontic laboratory and leader in digital innovation. The 10,000 s/f project had a strict deadline, which the Vantage team successfully met by utilizing a design-build model.

NEOLab (New England Orthodontic Laboratory) occupied space on the second floor of 3 Riverside Dr., and expanded into the first floor, nearly doubling its footprint. The expansion was needed to meet growing demand for its orthodontic appliances.

Working from design plans from Maugel DeStefano Architects, the Vantage team built two dedicated 3D metal printing laboratories, an open office layout that encourages collaboration and communication, new education space, lunchroom, and a renovated warehouse and storage area.

“We really appreciate the work of the Vantage team on helping NEOLab on the expansion of our corporate headquarters,” said Christian Saurman, CEO of NEOLab. “What particularly impressed me was how they took the time to understand what we do, so that our new space would support our business and help us get as much efficiency out of the expanded space as possible.”

The timing of the project’s tight deadline was driven by an industry event NEOLab was planning to host in its new education space. The team created its schedule, working back from the event date. However, mid-way through the project, NEOLab requested an additional 3D metal printing lab, which is critical to its growing work.

With the original deadline still in place, the Vantage team successfully added the second lab, using a design-build model to accommodate the required MEP work. The project involved significant underground plumbing, mechanical duct layout, and a fire protection system that was designed in-house to ensure all safety requirements and standards were met. The Vantage team coordinated closely with NEOLab to ensure all the necessary power requirements for the 3D printing labs were provided.

“We really enjoy working with companies that are growing their business and expanding their facilities, especially family-owned companies like NEOLab,” said Ed Silva, partner, Vantage Builders. “We’re glad that our design-build capabilities were able to keep this critical project on schedule, while delivering the space that NEOLab needs to continue its exciting growth trajectory.”