Solution

Bowie State University, Center for Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Nursing

Bowie, MD

Service: Building Enclosure Design

Market: Education - College & Prep

Keywords: Award Winning, Below-Grade, Below-Ground Waterproofing, Construction Administration, Curtain Wall, Mockup, Roofing, Skylight

Client

Perkins + Will

Completion

2017

Awards

2019 Innovative Project of the Year - New Construction, Schools, USGBC National Capital Region

Photo by Hall+Merrick

Bowie State University wanted a new home for their STEM and nursing department that would engage students, promote collaboration, and offer program flexibility. Primarily clad in curtain wall and featuring a three-story, elliptical multipurpose “Icon,” the Center for Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Nursing gives the campus a view of the innovative research and learning happening within. SGH consulted on the building enclosure design, which focuses on building energy performance and daylighting.

Scope | Solutions

SGH consulted on the design of the building enclosure, including the curtain walls, opaque wall systems, below- and above-grade waterproofing, skylights, and roofing. Highlights of our work include the following:

Reviewed the proposed design and provided recommendations to improve performance and air/water barrier continuity
Evaluated the unitized curtain wall system, which features glazing with adjustable tint or terra-cotta sunshades to decrease energy usage and optimize daylighting
Developed details to integrate the various enclosure systems, including the transition from the roofing to the Icon’s curved curtain wall, and maintaining a continuous barrier below the rooftop greenhouse
Observed construction and performance testing of on-site mockups and as-built exterior wall systems
Helped the contractor improve drainage around the skylights
Provided construction phase services, including reviewing contractor submittals and observing ongoing construction to compare with project requirements