What characterizes a property classified as research and development sites?

A property classified as research and development (R&D) sites is characterized by structures that are typically one or two stories and often incorporate mixed-use spaces. This design allows for both laboratory space and office space to coexist, which is essential in R&D environments where collaboration and innovation are key.

In R&D settings, facilities are usually built to accommodate specialized functions such as testing, product development, or design, necessitating versatility in layout. Mixed-use spaces can enhance productivity by integrating workspaces, meeting rooms, and sometimes retail or recreational areas, creating an environment that fosters creativity and collaboration among researchers and developers.

This design contrasts with high-rise office buildings, which are predominantly focused on traditional office environments and do not typically support the specific needs of R&D activities. Conventional manufacturing facilities can be more rigid in layout and are usually geared towards production rather than innovation. Exclusively residential spaces do not provide the commercial or laboratory functionalities necessary for research and development, making them unsuitable for classification as R&D sites.