The Next Generation of Medicine
A flexible and collaborative R&D environment fosters the development of the next generation of biotherapeutics, vaccines, and gene therapies.
R&D and Process Development Facility
Chesterfield, MO
Pfizer, a global biopharmaceutical leader, set out to create a next-generation development facility to support the advancement of biotherapeutics, vaccines, and gene medicines. To centralize teams and increase efficiency, Pfizer identified a need for a facility that would foster scientific innovation and enable seamless collaboration among diverse research functions.
To realize this vision, Pfizer partnered with a design-build team to create BioPlace, a 294,000-square-foot R&D and process development facility in Chesterfield, Missouri. The project integrates laboratory and office space into one unified environment, supporting nearly 450 Pfizer scientists and staff. The design features a continuous u-shaped lab concept, providing high-efficiency operations and functional flexibility.
Specialized lab types include GMP labs, analytical and chemistry labs, bioprocess development labs, mass spectrometry labs, cell banking facilities, viral vector labs, and conjugation suites. Open offices and shared collaboration areas promote interdisciplinary engagement, while flexible lab layouts accommodate evolving workflows and high-volume equipment demands.
By implementing prefabricated elements and improving functional adjacencies, the design team saved millions in construction costs and accelerated the schedule by three months. Today, BioPlace stands as a model of modern pharmaceutical development, driving scientific progress through adaptable, purpose-driven space.
“The collaboration between developers, designers, builders, engineers and the many owner groups has lead to a state-of-the-art facility that offers the St. Louis Pfizer family a spacious and collaborative environment with great views into the surrounding wooded property and plenty of daylight reaching every interior space.”
– Kirk Warden Executive Vice President and Partner – Clayco
Meet The Design Team
