Emory University
Woodruff Health Sciences Administration Building

• Location:
  Atlanta, GA
• Size:
  62,750 sf office building renovation
• Construction Cost:
  $7,500,000
• Status:
  Completed 2009

PerryCrabb Key Personnel:

• Mechanical: Jim Crabb, PE
• Electrical: Peter Andersen, PE

Owner Reference:

Challenge

Until this project, this building had undergone only piecemeal interior and infrastructure improvements. A major overhaul was necessary to comply with current codes and campus standards, improve occupant comfort, and an aesthetic “facelift” befitting the offices of university executives. The interior renovations included complete replacement of all HVAC systems, upgraded lighting and control systems, revamped power distribution, additional IT infrastructure, and updated systems on three floors of this 4-story prominent campus office building. The building was to remain occupied throughout construction.

Solution

Working collaboratively with Emory’s project and facility managers, technical personnel, and end-users, the design team systematically addressed the existing building’s mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection infrastructure deficiencies within the very tight budget. PerryCrabb engineers assisted in identifying priorities and evaluating alternatives.

PerryCrabb prepared detailed multi-phase construction documents to show sequential replacement of HVAC and electrical systems while maintaining an acceptable indoor environment, thus allowing the building to remain occupied during construction. Extensive design coordination overcame undersized utility chases and improved maintenance access to new MEP systems.

Results

The project team achieved success through a collaborative effort that identified and prioritized the goals of all stakeholders, achieved compromise where necessary and delivered a project that met budget with maximum value. Although some goals remain for future funding cycles, the major systems were upgraded to improve reliability, reduce operating cost, and comply with current codes. Life safety is improved. The executive occupants have a premium grade, but value conscious office environment with comfort systems that they can control.