Welcome readers,
This week we begin a two-part series on the future of laboratory space — exploring how life sciences facilities are reshaping both our cities and our buildings.
In Part One, Madrid-based Miguel Avanzini explores the emergence of the “urban lab” and the growing push to embed science within high-value urban districts. He highlights how London, Barcelona and Paris are redefining life sciences as a strategic urban asset.
Next week, in Part Two, we shift from the city to the building. Dubai-based Emily Urban will take us inside the practical realities of converting awkward office floors into functioning laboratories — from riser constraints to ceiling voids to the challenges of high-rise plant. Her article shows how thoughtful design can turn imperfect shells into productive research environments.
This edition also covers 16 deals across Europe, spanning new developments, expansions, leases and acquisitions.
🔒 Paying subscribers get 16 deals • Everyone else can explore 3 of them → Get full access by subscribing here.
— Stephen Ryan (connect with me on LinkedIn)
🔍 Do you need deeper insights into life sciences real estate?
In addition to our regular updates, we offer bespoke research and strategic analysis for investors and developers in the life sciences sector. Whether you’re evaluating an acquisition, tracking market trends, or need a custom report, our team can help you make informed decisions.
Get in touch to discuss how we can support your next project.
Featured articles of the week
Laboratories in the urban core
Cities want labs in the urban core, but regulation lags behind. Flexible, small-scale laboratory models may offer the breakthrough.
Deals
BELGIUM AALST
Logistics service provider Movianto is expanding its pharmaceutical and healthcare facility in Aalst, more than doubling temperature-controlled storage capacity from 13,000 to 27,000 pallets. The expansion is scheduled for completion in May 2026, with the hall already in place and interior fit-out underway. The site will include new separate areas for hazardous goods and narcotics storage, operating across temperature ranges from minus 80 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius. The facility functions as a bonded warehouse for duty-free transit storage, and staffing will increase from 100 to 150 employees upon completion.
FRANCE VILLEJUIF
Coffim and Demathieu Bard Immobilier have delivered The Hive, a 25,000 sq m laboratory and office development at Campus Grand Parc in Villejuif. The project comprises three plots ranging from seven to nine storeys, designed by Baumschlager Eberle and Studio SAME architectes and constructed by Eiffage Construction Tertiaire. Developed for Kadans Science Partner, the buildings will accommodate health companies and institutions specialising in cancer research. The campus is located opposite Gustave Roussy hospital and directly connected to the Paris Saclay Cancer Cluster, forming part of a dedicated medical research ecosystem.
Would you like instant access to more deals like these? Our data tool lets you filter, sort and search European life sciences transactions spanning 24 countries—whether you're tracking a single city or spotting market patterns others miss.
GERMANY BENSHEIM
HIH Invest has acquired a newly completed logistics property in Bensheim for an individual mandate. The building comprises 13,010 sq m, including 11,286 sq m of logistics space, 1,347 sq m of offices and 377 sq m of mezzanine. The property is let on a long-term basis to MSK Pharma Group. Developed by Panattoni under a forward funding arrangement completed in 2023, the facility is located in the Rhine-Neckar region with direct access to the A5 and A67 motorways and federal highways 47 and 460.
👇 As a free member, you get access to three deals for free.
Upgrade now to access the full list.
