As the Innovation Area Development Partnership (IADP) marks its 10th anniversary, we have contributed to its new flagship publication, Organised Innovation Spaces, which brings together leading voices shaping the future of science and innovation districts across Europe.

The publication features expert insight from our Head of Life Sciences, Ross McWatt, and Project Director Thijs Karrenbeld, who were invited to co‑author a dedicated chapter on adaptive reuse for innovation.

Drawing on current projects, their contribution explores how converting existing buildings - ranging from offices and retail centres to business parks - can provide a rapid, sustainable solution to the growing demand for life science and laboratory facilities.

Ross and Thijs outline the core advantages of repurposing underused assets, demonstrating how retrofit projects can deliver lower‑carbon, faster‑to‑market alternatives to new‑build developments. They also show how thoughtful adaptive reuse can help create vibrant, community‑centred life science ecosystems that support urban regeneration. Their chapter further details the technical, structural and environmental considerations required to transform existing spaces into high‑performing research environments.

Beyond this, Organised Innovation Spaces charts the evolution of science parks in the Netherlands, explores the design principles behind successful innovation areas, and examines the optimal mix of companies that allows these districts to thrive. Together, the publication offers a comprehensive overview of the trends shaping the next generation of innovation‑led development.

Discover the publication and explore the ideas shaping future innovation districts.