Type: Addition 

Size: 29,000 sq. ft.

Cost: $20,500,000

Services: Mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and technology

 

While the existing building was a relatively modernized and new facility, it could not handle the rapid growth of the College of Aeronautics and Engineering program. The addition provided classroom and lab space for the hands-on experience required for students in this industry, such as active production type spaces (laser cutters, laser printers, woodworking) and state of the art research and development equipment. Scheeser Buckley Mayfield’s knowledge of KSU’s programs and engineering practices provided a unique design to create a specialized space.

The most complex mechanical design elements included integrating with the existing building and with campus central utilities. The building is slated to receive LEED certification, which required specific energy management and recovery systems. The building included specialized exhaust systems to accommodate soldering, woodworking, etc.

Plumbing systems outside of basic building necessities always requires attention by maintenance personnel. The central lab hot and cold water systems were eliminated by being served from the domestic water systems. Concerns of cross-contamination was minimized by installing ASSE 1024 dual check valves that are both NSF 61 and lead free.  

 

SBM provided lighting, power and data for the addition. A small parking lot and walking paths were outfitted with pole and pathway lighting. Emergency poles were relocated to ensure safety. All lighting was LED with local low-voltage lighting controls. Each space was provided with dimming capabilities to meet the LEED lighting control credit. The existing switchboard had space and the capability to extend to the new building addition distribution panelboard. Each of the lab spaces was provided with their own panelboard (or one shared between two labs) to allow the owner to add additional circuits to the space with ease. Power and data were provided in each of the lab spaces through countertop wiremold.

SBM designed technology applications for the project. Communications outlets serving user workstations and wireless access points throughout the facility were connected to the technology room with augmented CAT6a cabling.

The atrium/lobby space was constructed to allow for drones to be flown, with no ceiling space between floors. The full height glazing located between corridors and classrooms/
labs along with the exterior glazing around the perimeter of the building posed many challenges for routing of MEP systems while maintaining high ceiling heights.