What does Longo Labs do?
Longo Labs plans, designs, and installs science laboratory furniture and equipment for K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and commercial research facilities. We handle everything from initial design through final installation — casework, lab benches, fume hoods, countertops, sinks, STEAM furniture, and more.
Do you handle installation?
Yes. Longo manages delivery and installation as part of every project. We coordinate directly with the school district or facility to ensure everything is installed on schedule with minimal disruption.
How long does a lab renovation project typically take from start to finish?
It varies by scope, but a typical K-12 lab renovation runs 6–8 months from design sign-off to installation complete. Lead times on casework and countertops are usually 10–12 weeks from factory release. Planning and shop drawing approval happen before that. For a summer installation window, we always recommend starting design conversations by the previous fall.
How do we budget for a lab renovation?
Pricing varies based on room size, project scope, and product selection. A full K-12 lab gut-and-replace typically depends on casework, countertops, fume hoods, sinks, demonstration desks, student workstations, utilities, and any additional construction required. Because every project is unique, budgets can vary widely, so we offer free preliminary pricing to help you plan with confidence.
Can we use state purchasing contracts instead of going through public bid?
Yes — and most NJ schools do. State and national purchasing contracts (like ESCNJ, TIPS, and MHEC) allow districts to procure lab furniture directly without a formal public bid process. TIPS is a national contract, while ESCNJ and MHEC are state contracts, and Longo holds the awarded contracts that allow purchasing directly. This saves significant time and administrative burden while still meeting procurement compliance requirements.
Are there safety codes or standards we need to meet?
Yes. K-12 science labs need to comply with local building codes, OSHA guidelines, and in some cases NFPA and ADA requirements. Key considerations include eyewash station placement, emergency shower access, fume hood clearances, and aisle widths. We flag code considerations during the design phase and coordinate with your architect or company team to ensure compliance.
Do you offer preliminary drawings before we commit?
Yes, and at no cost. We’ll produce preliminary layout drawings based on your room dimensions, program needs, and budget before you commit to anything. This includes plan views & elevations of proposed casework layouts, fume hood placement, and key equipment so you can see how the space will function.
Can you work with our architect?
Yes, we collaborate directly with your architect, engineer, or design team throughout the project. From initial concept through final installation. Our team reviews architectural plans and coordinates on critical details like utility rough ins (gas, water, electrical, data), wall conditions, ventilation requirements for fume hoods, and ADA compliance.
We’re happy to attend design meetings (in person or virtually), markup drawings, and issue shop drawings for architect review and approval before fabrication. Whether your architect has extensive lab design experience or this is their first science space, we act as the casework and equipment specialist on the team.