Sepiatec
Supercritical Fluid Chromatography Factory
- Location
- Berlin, Germany
- Year
- 2025
- Size
- 510 m²
- Lab area
- 510 m²
- Deep tech
- Analytical Instrumentation, HPLC/SFC
Sepiatec, a Berlin-based analytical instrumentation company and part of the Büchi group, specializes in cutting-edge HPLC and SFC systems that leverage supercritical CO₂'s unique gas-liquid properties for precision molecular separation. In our recent project, we reimagined their production facility – doubling output while streamlining material flows from warehousing through testing.
We conducted on-site visits and 360° scans to capture workflows and product requirements. This was translated into workflow diagrams that aided the zoning. During our process analysis, critical safety needs were addressed, such as the specification of high-capacity floor-level ventilation for liquid CO₂ handling.
Discover
To arrive at the most effective space utilization, we produced and iterated over 100 layout variations, optimizing material flow, open workspace design, and collaboration points. We integrated flexible wall systems, reused over 100 inventoried furniture pieces, and developed detailed technical, safety, and utility plans. The showroom reflects the company's material expertise, industrial design and their corporate identity. With a fully flexible and modular design of the furniture, Sepiatec can reconfigure the room for different scenarios, add new elements to the showroom and also use it as a team and event space.
Design
With detailed contractor briefings and leveraging our network, we could plan and execute constructions effectively. In the process, we coordinated the completion of new flooring, drywall installation, and corporate color painting, leaving the space ready for rapid setup.
Build
In just one week, our joint SLA-Sepiatec team, supported by specialist trades, completed over 320 tasks and more than 600 work hours to bring the new facility fully online without production downtime. We installed the ventilation system, utilities, floor extraction, and a service wing, while also building custom showroom furniture in Sepiatec's corporate design. Supported by our fully equipped workshop we concluded the Sprint with all connections, storage, furniture and tools in place. We even added motion-activated lighting to highlight the showroom at night, ensuring both function and visibility.
Sprint
1-week Sprint Timelapse
Seamless relocation & setup
Production only paused for a single week
Outcome-driven
Factory capacity doubled, with an upgraded showroom for customer presentations and brand visibility
Budget & timeline discipline
Delivered at the lower end of the initial cost estimate and on time
Tailored solutions
Layouts, workflows, and even furniture were optimized for efficient working and future growth
Done & Delivered
Christian Nock
Head of Operations
The Smart Lab Architects helped us bring our new facilities to life. A production area, storage space, test stations, and a representative demo lab for customers and training now inspire us every single day. Almost every step of the planning and implementation was taken care of for us, allowing us to stay focused on our daily business as much as possible. Many of the clever and creative ideas would never have occurred to us on our own. Thank you so much for your support!
Project Transformation
Site
Design
Built
More Impressions
Christian Nock
Head of Operations
Almost every step of the planning and implementation was taken care of for us, allowing us to stay focused on our daily business as much as possible. Many of the clever and creative ideas would never have occurred to us on our own.