Challenge
Design a major athletic complex for indoor and outdoor sports, concealing the building itself below-grade.

In planning this 83,000 sf athletic complex, the team was challenged to preserve the integrity of a site shared with the Washington National Cathedral and planned by renowned landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted. Guidelines stipulated that no more than 14% of the grounds be developed, with the remainder left to grass, trees and fields. To meet these requirements and to minimize building mass, the design conceals 90% of the building volume beneath rooftop soccer fields and landscaped berms.

The modest footprint of the entry pavilion masks the variety of activities taking place on two underground levels 45 feet below. The development of 110-foot clear spans over the two major gymnasium spaces while supporting the turf playing fields above posed a significant structural challenge. Gymnasium walls were also designed to withstand the force of 40 feet of earth in an uninterrupted vertical span. With minimal daylighting, energy efficient lighting applications were a key consideration and carefully tailored to each space and function, as in the gym, where supplemental lighting counteracts shadows thrown by deep structural trusses, and the atrium, where multiple dimmers lighting the climbing wall simulate conditions that range from sunrise to sunset.

Challenge: Unite traditional architectural forms with modern materials and methods to create a central, landmark place of worship for a Catholic university and new-town development.

From a distance, the 30,000 sf, 120-foot-tall, 1,100-seat Oratory – the centerpiece of a new development encompassing Ave Maria University and the Town of Ave Maria – resembles a traditional cathedral. Closer inspection reveals an intriguing rendering of classic, sacred motifs in a modern palette of glass, steel, and stone. Curved structural-steel bents, latticed and intertwined to resemble Gothic tracery, are both structural and aesthetic, simultaneously supporting the building and evoking a sense of mystery in worshipers, whose eyes are drawn upward to the light penetrating from skylights and punched openings provocatively located behind key intersections of the steel lattice. Bents penetrating the building’s outer skin evince the Oratory’s unusual structure to passersby.

For maximum stability and constructability, wide flange shapes, rather than hollow structural shapes such as square or round tubes, were chosen for the main structural steel bents, whose elements transfer lateral loads to the three-foot-thick mat foundation through flexure and arching action. Because the framing’s radially curving geometry and complex connections rendered traditional effective-length and slenderness procedures ineffective, the steel members were analyzed via the direct analysis method adopted in the 2005 AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings. The non-orthogonal connections, many with multiple curved members joined at widely varying and acute angles, required three-dimensional detailing software and a highly integrated engineering and architectural process that facilitated quick resolution of aesthetic and construction concerns while enhancing overall architectural, engineering, and fabrication objectives.

Challenge
Evoke the spirit and excitement of flight using dramatic structural forms.

Creative expression of the structural elements helped capture the architect’s vision and establish a distinctive image for this 285,000 sf passenger terminal. The double curvature of the main terminal roof slopes towards the center, while the corners arc upward to the sky, suggesting the moment of flight.

Open clear span spaces, curving forms and sharp volumetric variations identify and separate the three main activities: ticketing, security passage and concourse. A subtly curved 27-foot tall truss, spanning 80 feet across the gateway into the security area, is a dramatic focus at the center of the terminal.

Beyond its civic stature, the terminal works in a practical sense, emphasizing passenger convenience, operational simplicity and functional efficiency. A fully integrated computerized building management system controls all HVAC and energy management systems as well as lighting and multiple subsystems operations.

The success of the project led to an Energy and Technology Citation from ASHRAE and recognition as an outstanding structural engineering achievement by the AISC New York State Council.

Challenge
Design the first LEED-certified building for the University of Maryland.

To respond to the evolving technologies of its curriculum, while ensuring maximum flexibility for the future, Cannon Design engineered the first LEED Silver eligible building for the University System of Maryland. A library resource center with five-story atrium is a key feature of this 195,000 sf facility which houses 45 classrooms, over 120 offices, dining service with full kitchen, as well as central plants for heating and cooling.

A noteworthy model for the conservation of resources, the project incorporates far-ranging operational cost saving initiatives. In addition to building envelope performance that exceeds ASHRAE requirements, high efficiency equipment – chillers, boilers, electric motors, variable frequency drives and domestic water heaters – reduces overall energy consumption. HVAC systems utilize demand ventilation to reduce energy consumption during low occupancy and sensors signal shutdown when areas become vacant. Abundant natural lighting reaching 75% of the interior spaces minimizes lighting energy consumption.

An array of photovoltaic panels, mounted on the high rooftops of each of three wings, captures solar energy. On lower roof areas, a green roofing system reduces heating and cooling costs as well as stormwater runoff. The use of advanced water-efficient technologies earned Shady Grove four of five maximum LEED credits. Energy cost reduction measures alone achieve savings 25% below LEED baseline models. Additionally, the project earns an extra innovation point for achieving savings 44% below LEED baseline models for potable water use.

Challenge
Provide comprehensive services for an entirely new institution of 1.8 million sf.

In accordance with the Master Plan developed by Cannon Design, Sabanci University is a new residential campus comprising 28 buildings totaling 1.8 million sf on a 240-acre site. A 2.5 mile utility tunnel infrastructure links each building to the central utilities plant for distribution of HVAC, fire protection, 10 kV normal and emergency power distribution, lighting automation and telecommunications. Campus power is supplied by two 16MVA, 10 kV transformers providing 100% redundancy for the system. Emergency power is provided by four-2250 kVA, 10 kV parallel generators to provide complete campus back up. For additional security and reliability, 29 UPS’s provide 1850 kVA of continuous back-up power for campus telecommunications and life safety lighting systems. A flexible IT infrastructure with more than 8000 data ports provides state-of-the-art networking capability, giving 5000 students data and internet access virtually anywhere on campus. Advanced audio-visual systems include on-line teaching tools, video conferencing, and distance learning systems.

Campus HVAC systems consist of a 6000-ton central chilled water plant and a 30,000 MBH central gas fired, hot water heating plant. Chilled and hot water are distributed via underground piping systems to secondary pumping systems in each building. Air handling systems are highly efficient variable air volume systems.

All structures were constructed to U.S. seismic design standards, using a poured in place concrete flat-slab system that successfully withstood an earthquake during construction.

Challenge
Incorporate energy-efficient and renewable technologies into a signature design.

Honored with the Integrator Award, a national recognition of best practices by Consulting-Specifying Engineer and named one of the 100 most important buildings of the past 100 years by the New York AIA, CESTM expresses the pathway of technology transfer, from advanced research and development, to business incubation and public dissemination. With its sweeping form culminating in a 115 foot communications tower, the Center has become an instant landmark. Enhancing its mission as a showcase of technology, CESTM was designated a photovoltaic demonstration project by the New York State Energy Department and is one of the largest building integrated PV assemblies in the U.S. Beyond acting as a renewable energy source, the PV assemblies function as sunshades, reducing cooling loads on an already efficient mechanical system. To accommodate change as technologies transition from the lab to the marketplace, the mechanical, electrical and structural systems were designed for maximum flexibility. In the labs, gas, air, water, HVAC and electrical services are delivered from above a unistrut grid system. Heavy equipment loads are suspended from a special fluted metal deck with continuous dovetail slots and wedge bolts.

Challenge
Design a replacement utilities plant to remedy present deficiencies and accommodate future demand.

As part of a Facilities Master Plan documenting options for building renovation, expansion or replacement, Cannon Design engineers conducted an assessment of the operating condition, efficiency and capacity of the existing systems infrastructure and equipment at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. The original systems had been well maintained but were nearing reasonable operational and life span limits. In addition, the existing central plant was land-locked as a result of surrounding renovation and expansion programs, making equipment replacement or modifications difficult. Given the need to accommodate proposed development, the medical center authorized the design of a new free-standing central plant as a comprehensive solution. The plant’s structural system is a state-of-the-art seismically ductile steel frame, ensuring that the facility remains operational even in the event of an earthquake.

Housed in the plant are three, 400-ton chillers and three, 400hp boilers as well as four, 750 KVA diesel-fueled emergency generators. One of three cooling towers operates with a plate and frame heat exchanger to provide “free” cooling using a water side economizer cycle. This new central plant facilitates future capital projects, ensures energy-efficient operations and achieves appropriate life cycle cost benefits.

Challenge
Design a mission-critical regional public safety facility.

In an era of new standards for safety and security, Erie County has embarked on an ambitious program to consolidate public safety functions, utilizing the latest technologies for community service. The $33 million Service Building, the first component of the Public Safety Campus, houses the critically important functions of the regional 911 call center, emergency operations command center and forensic science laboratories.

The facility is a “hardened” building designed to remain fully operational in the event of natural disaster or terrorist threat. The mechanical and electrical systems of the 911 call center are configured to N+1 redundancy levels to ensure communications channels never go down. Should the building lose utility services, the call center can function as an “island,” remaining fully operational under stand-alone power and HVAC systems.

Security measures include Category D blast-resistant ductile structural systems – the most stringent seismic design classification – and ventilation air opening protection. Features of the electrical systems design include remote PC towers with plug-in, moveable cart workstations, redundant 900KW continuous rated diesel generators, redundant 300 KVA UPS systems supporting telecommunications, harmonic filtering devices and lighting applications specific to the 911 call center and forensic laboratories.

Challenge
Design the building infrastructure to support a unique complex for student life.

Boston University’s John Hancock Student Village is one of the most comprehensive developments of its kind to be found on an urban campus. It encompasses facilities for all facets of student life: residential towers, a fitness and recreation complex, an 800-car parking structure, a track and tennis center and a 6,200-seat arena that serves as a venue for ice hockey as well as performances, lectures and entertainment.

In honoring the 270,000 sf recreation center for design excellence, the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction praised the project “for its curved and inclined shapes, expressing lightness and brilliance, through long clear spans.” The recreation center offers facilities for wellness and sports medicine, competition and leisure pools, three and four court gymnasiums, squash and racquetball courts, dance studios, elevated jogging track, climbing wall, support and administrative areas.

The interplay of these many volumes of space placed exacting demands upon the structural geometry. Exposed long span trusses over 200 feet in length were used to frame many areas, including the roofs of the gym, hockey arena and competition pool as well as a suspended gym floor.

Challenge
Design one of the most energy-efficient office buildings in the world, relying exclusively on a fully transparent skin.

Designed in the late 1970s, this landmark structure won the prestigious Owens Corning Energy Award and then, 20 years later, was one of the first commercial buildings to receive the prestigious Energy Star, a joint citation by the U.S. Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency honoring buildings that demonstrate excellence in energy performance. Today, it serves as a symbol of Cannon Design’s reputation for the integration of innovative engineering strategies and award-winning design.

Between two glass walls forming a double skin, automatically controlled louvers transform the building shell from fully transparent during occupied hours to a fully opaque, insulated condition when vacant. They also provide heat shielding of the interior through near-perfect solar shading. In addition, the four-foot space between the glass is vented, creating a continuous thermal buffer around the perimeter. By controlling air movement within the vented space, heat is collected or purged, depending upon building demand. Consequently, energy consumption is one-third of that experienced by conventional office buildings.

A pioneering innovation, this first use of the double-wall building skin became an international model widely emulated throughout Europe and Asia.

Challenge
Double the useful life span of an existing 1970s inpatient facility to meet the demands of 21st century healthcare delivery.

The Master Facilities Plan developed for Bassett Healthcare called for the correction of functional deficiencies and the development of building infrastructure to meet the technology-driven requirements of 21st century patient care. To do so, a new fifth floor functions as a vertical expansion of the existing building.

Systems modifications include a mechanical penthouse and equipment serving inpatient units and the installation of vertical risers for mechanical, electrical, telecommunications and plumbing systems. Frequency mapping eliminated interference between new and existing telecommunications systems and VFD equipment.

Equally challenging was the installation of a high demand earthquake resistant structural system within this concrete frame building, without modifying the existing columns and foundations, and while the lower floors remained operational. Believed to be one of the first applications of its kind in the U.S., bolted steel plate shear walls assembled on site infill a column bay from floor to floor in key locations. These new walls resist wind and seismic loads, providing a ductile “fuse”.

In the adjacent Energy Center, the emergency power system has been upgraded with the addition of two 2000 KVA generators and improvements to the existing paralleling switchgear.

Challenge
Convert a parking ramp into a mass casualty incident center.

In light of such natural disasters as earthquakes and concerns for homeland security, Loma Linda University commissioned an unusual feasibility study: the conversion of a proposed four story parking ramp into a mass casualty incident center capable of treating 300 patients within the hour. Such a transformation places extraordinary demands upon building systems, requiring an innovative design approach.

At grade level, a physical decontamination unit adjoins triage. Below grade, the first level is a conditioned sealed environment for patient treatment. Medical personnel can function without protective equipment since HVAC systems protect against airborne chemical, biological and radiation infiltration. To provide standard patient services – power, medical gases, telecommunications and monitoring systems – a specially designed modular headwall unit, concealed overhead throughout the space, drops down in an emergency.

Systems include wireless patient tracking and nurse call, engine generator and battery back-up power, and plumbing to treat contaminated waste. A control center manages activities and monitors security and communications during an event.

Challenge
Transform an historic church into a high-performance environment for multiple college and community uses.

Transforming a rare example of Byzantine-Lombardic architecture into a multi-purpose facility, while preserving its integrity and beauty, has earned the Montante Cultural Center national, state and regional recognition. This adaptive re-use and restoration of a former church called for an auditorium suitable for a variety of cultural and academic events – lectures, plays and concerts – as well as additional space for small meetings and receptions.

The building infrastructure was upgraded to contemporary standards; a new two-level meeting room/balcony seemingly suspended within the existing building shell; a new stage, theatrical lighting and professional sound systems installed.

Most importantly, the acoustics of the original domed space were completely re-configured to performance standards with the introduction of butterfly clouds of sound-reflecting acoustical panels and an HVAC system that minimizes noise and vibration. Praised as a “repair of the old and the introduction of the new, juxtaposed with particular skill and beauty,“ the Center has been honored for design excellence by both the Illuminating Engineering Society and the AIA.

Challenge
Create a “green” high-rise building in a dense urban setting.

Housing 345 students, the Somerset Street Residence Hall complements the character of its historic Beacon Hill neighborhood. The key organizing element of the building is a 19-story central atrium designed to harvest daylight and reduce heat loss and gain by buffering surrounding interior spaces. The atrium consists of transparent, south and west facing, double-glazed low-e glass walls and skylights, with interior surfaces that include interior glazing and aluminum wall panels. Chosen to reflect and diffuse light to the ground floor and bedroom, lounge and common spaces on floors above, these materials introduce a quality and quantity of daylight not found in the typical dormitory.

Acting as a thermal buffer and cold weather solar collector, the atrium tempers the air above the occupied ground level, and reduces heat gain and loss to adjacent dormitory rooms with minimal energy use. Temperature sensors at the top of the atrium control louvers and fans that admit outside air, naturally ventilating the atrium and optimizing internal temperatures. In addition, upper level curtain wall and skylight glazing incorporates integral shading, reducing radiant heat penetration by 40%.

Challenge: Devise a fully integrated, cost-effective systems infrastructure for an entirely new university encompassing 12 buildings and more than 1 million sf.

For Ave Maria University, the first new Catholic university to be established in the U.S. in half a century, hardware and software were designed to accommodate plug-in growth of future campus building systems and technologies. A Division 17 system proved effective in unifying the campus’s control, security, maintenance, administrative, and accounting systems while reducing lifecycle, operating, and maintenance costs. Enabling single-point monitoring, the fully integrated system provides an overview of the growing campus development, increases response to security and maintenance issues, and simplifies access and accounting for system users.

A central utility plant housing all central cooling equipment and associated pumps, towers, and switchgear is strategically located to reduce length and size of underground piping as well as pumping electrical costs. Control and monitoring of cooling plants are computerized, minimizing staffing requirements and improving energy efficiency. A digital metering and monitoring system monitors average and peak loads as well as harmonic loading conditions at all campus main services, generator sets, data centers, UPSs, and telecommunications centers, employing a proactive rather than reactive approach to accommodating campus expansion.

Challenge
Incorporate high performance systems into a world-class research center for a Nobel Laureate.

A gateway to the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, the 72,000 sf Structural Biology Research Center reflects the institutional commitment to innovation and expresses their culture of collaboration. The $21.5 million building is organized as three components: a rectangular laboratory block, a curved office wing, and a transparent three-story atrium that links the two. High-performance systems include: integrated facility management systems for security access, intrusion detection and closed circuit monitoring; energy management, life safety, HVAC, and specialized laboratory ventilation and temperature control; specialized lighting in the laboratories and atrium; high capacity telecommunications and networking systems for institutional and global connectivity, as well as a 450 KW emergency generator to power life safety and critical laboratory functions. In recognition of its energy-efficient HVAC technologies, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority authorized a $400,000 incentive grant, the maximum achievable.

Challenge
Maintain operational continuity of research labs during major engineering systems replacement program.

Since its opening in 1952, the Warren G. Magnuson Clinical Center has grown to over 3 million square feet, housing 2,000 biomedical research laboratories and offices. Although the Clinical Center is a signature building on the Bethesda campus, the HVAC systems were inadequate and outdated and had exceeded their capacity and life expectancy.

In order to extend the life of this building, NIH commissioned an infrastructure replacement and improvement program. Six two-story penthouses housing new equipment were added to the 12-story building as well as new distribution shafts incorporated at the ends of each wing. A fundamental strategy of the engineering design was ensuring that the complex remained fully operational during construction. Key components of the program were: the replacement of all HVAC and utilities systems including new variable air volume supply and exhaust air-handling units with variable frequency drives for fan control and energy conservation; a major upgrade of electrical systems including the addition of electrical vaults and network transformers to improve system reliability, and the introduction of a direct digital temperature control system utilizing a network of stand-alone controllers to monitor both new and existing HVAC and electrical equipment. Upon completion, the project earned the recognition of the Washington Building Congress for successful AE collaboration.