Fitchburg, MA
Fitchburg State University, Science Facility Modernization
Scope/Solutions
Originally constructed in 1963, the three-story Condike Science Building needed renovations to improve the performance and function of the facility. Fitchburg State University undertook a comprehensive renovation of the existing building and built a new 57,700 sq ft addition to house the Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Geophysical Science departments. SGH was the Building Enclosure Commissioning Agent (BECxA) for the project.
As the BECxA, SGH performed the following work:
- Evaluated design concepts for modernizing the existing building enclosure systems, including replacing strip windows, roofing, and flashing
- Reviewed designs for building enclosure systems on the new addition, including below-grade waterproofing systems, metal panel and brick rainscreen wall systems, windows, curtain walls, and roofing
- Provided design recommendations to improve building enclosure performance at the existing building and the new addition
- Developed laboratory and field testing requirements for all building enclosure systems to verify performance
- Observed ongoing building enclosure construction to compare with the design intent and performance expectations
- Conducted field testing, including air infiltration and water penetration testing of windows, water penetration testing of curtain walls, adhesion testing of water-resistive barriers, and adhesion testing of sealants
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Project Summary
2014
Completion Date
57.3M
Construction Value
LEED
Certification
Solutions
New Construction
Services
Markets
Education
Client(s)
CBT Architects
Key team members
Additional Projects
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Hamilton College, Ruth and Elmer Wellin Museum of Art
With the museum requiring high-humidity space, the architect realized that thermal performance of the exterior enclosure would be critical to the building’s success. SGH provided design consulting, modeling, construction administration, and performance testing services for the building enclosure.
Northeast
Bowie State University, Center for Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Nursing
Bowie State University wanted a new home for their STEM and nursing department that would engage students, promote collaboration, and offer program flexibility. SGH consulted on the building enclosure design, which focuses on building energy performance and daylighting.