2025 East Best Projects
Best Manufacturing: IDEXX Horizon Center
IDEXX Horizon Center
Scarborough, Maine
BEST PROJECT
Submitted by Ci Design Inc.
Owner: IDEXX Laboratories Inc.
Lead Design Firm: Ci Design Inc.
General Contractor: Cianbro
Civil Engineer: Gorril Palmer
Structural Engineer: E2 Engineers
MEP Engineer: A/Z Corp.
Located on a 25-acre site, the 114,000-sq-ft facility enhances the owner’s ability to research, develop and manufacture advanced veterinary diagnostic products, with capacity for future growth. Included are research and development laboratories, flexible manufacturing spaces, a high-bay warehouse with integrated cold and freezer storage and 40-ft ceilings to accommodate large-scale production needs. Collaborative office environments and employee-focused amenities such as a full-service cafeteria are designed to attract and retain top talent in the life sciences industry.
The project introduced several innovative design strategies that elevate both the functionality and aesthetics of a combined lab and manufacturing facility. An advanced system of dynamic, electronically controlled glass allows for adjustable tinting and shading, improving daylight control, occupant comfort and long-term energy efficiency. Natural light is further emphasized through skylights in the cafeteria, creating a more welcoming environment for staff.
Photo by Greg Moine Photography, courtesy CI Design Inc.
During construction, the team used specialized methods for dusty environments, planned clear separation of materials and people and built systems to strict performance and regulatory requirements. These conditions required extraordinary interdisciplinary coordination across architecture, engineering and construction teams, all while adhering to an aggressive project schedule.
As an early anchor project in a new 154-acre innovation district, the facility needed to set a precedent while aligning visually and functionally with a broader master plan that includes approximately 50 future tenants of varying disciplines. The design team collaborated closely with the district’s planning board and developers to secure aesthetic approvals and ensure that the building’s appearance harmonized with the area’s long-term vision. To establish a strong connection to the surrounding landscape, the site plan incorporates outdoor seating areas along with a sustainable planting strategy of apple trees and other native species.
The project was completed on schedule and at budget, logging more than 251,000 incident- and injury-free work hours.
