Academic

Our broad experience in STEM buildings and teaching and research laboratories is nearly unparalleled. We create learning environments that foster curiosity, experimentation and exploration.

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Clinical

In the every-changing world of healthcare, clinical laboratories play a central role in patient care. HERA understands that quality specimen processing and efficient flow take center stage in your lab operation. We design spaces that adapt to the people, process and technology at the heart of your work.

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Forensic

HERA’s forensic arm – Crime Lab Design – is recognized around the world as the industry leader in forensic laboratory programming, architecture and MEP design. Together with Harley Ellis Devereaux, CLD has provided integrated services for more than 20 years.

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Government

HERA understands how to navigate procurement rules, annual budgetary cycles and design approval processes for government projects. We have the experience to assist contracting officers in completing successful laboratory facility projects including research, testing, clinical, vivarium and support spaces.

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R&D

HERA understands key science issues for corporate clients: Safety first; recruitment and retention of staff through smart design; cost efficiency and flexibility for capital expenditures; and planning for future growth.

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About HERA laboratory planners

We love science. At HERA, we enhance scientific discovery and client productivity through the creation of optimal laboratory environments. That’s our mission.

As architects who are also lab planners and designers, we have a deep understanding of trends, issues and best practices that shape laboratory environments. We bring that knowledge and commitment to every project we touch.

What does that mean for our clients and partner firms? Together, we will innovate and explore ideas to ensure all your project needs are met.

With five primary markets – academic, clinical, forensic, government and R&D – our combined experience from hundreds of projects totals more than 26.5 million square feet in laboratory space alone. Our depth of experience allows us to examine new ideas in laboratory planning and design, while evaluating them against our previous experience for best practices.

Founded in 1996, we are a certified Minority-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE) and Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB).

What’s Happening at HERA

2026 HERA promotions

Please join us in celebrating the well-earned promotions of these four team members whose growth and contributions to the firm continue all while embracing HERA’s core values of honesty, equality, entrepreneurship, respect, quality, leadership, collaboration, dedication, innovation & design excellence and learning. Two have ascended our leadership ladder, earning associate roles. Two have ascended our […]

IDOT Materials Laboratory and Research Center opens

The Illinois Department of Transportation’s new Materials Testing and Research Center has officially opened. This $63 million, state-of-the-art facility located in Springfield, IL advances highway construction materials research and helps ensure quality, value and durability for Illinois roads and bridges. Built in partnership with the Illinois Capital Development Board, the 81,000-square-foot building features high-bay central […]

I2SL leadership

Senior Laboratory Planner Andrew Borkon, Assoc. AIA is deepening his involvement in the International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories (I2SL) Arizona chapter and is now serving as vice president of the organization. He has been involved with the board since 2022, previously serving as education director. He will continue to support the education committee in addition […]