Verus® Research, a New Mexico-based team of scientists and engineers specializing in advanced research and development, announced the expansion and buildout of a new research facility. The fast-growing technology company will move into an empty big-box retail space in Albuquerque, N.M., in August. In addition to the new 41,240 square feet of research and office space, Verus Research will maintain its multi-floor headquarters in Albuquerque as well as its two other lab and office spaces throughout the city.

Working with Verus Research since 2014, Resolut RE, a commercial real estate company located in Albuquerque, has supported the company’s growth during the past seven years and was tasked with helping the company expand in a limited industrial real estate market.  As the COVID-19 pandemic impacted retail space, it provided Resolut RE with a creative way to support its client as well as the business community. “To meet the growing needs of Verus Research, we had to creatively look at the problem and find the right space to accommodate the company’s expansion,” said Rob Powell, principal with Resolut RE. “Once we identified the unique big-box location, we collaborated with Improve Group and Design Plus to develop a cutting-edge interior design transforming a retail space into a state-of-the-art research location for one of New Mexico’s leading technology companies.”

For the space to accommodate Verus Research’s needs, Improve, collaborated with Design Plus Architects and developed a systemized construction system using DIRTT (Doing it Right this Time) and other systems which utilized the flexibility and sustainability of the space to encourage growth. “We helped create a workplace systems approach for Verus Research that incorporates the company’s vision of solving problems through innovative solutions. The smart component-based system we developed where walls can be moved like Legos will help stimulate and accommodate internal growth for the next 10 years,” said Matt Procter, president of Improve Group. 

Design Plus, an Albuquerque-based architectural design firm, worked closely with Verus Research to create a solutions-oriented work environment built around the vision, collaboration, and achievements of its scientists and engineers. “We developed an anthology of space(s) that became the underlying philosophy and logic for the Verus Workplace System. This determined an integration between public and private activity, the manifestation of the company’s culture, the creation and implementation of an innovative interior design system and more. Verus Research made a unique investment in its physical and virtual work environments and encouraged us to bring a new perspective to the design and construction of its newest laboratory,” said Rupal Engineer, president of Design Plus.