Fishbeck worked closely with the school district to establish standardized HVAC design solutions that balanced renovation goals such as duration of service (short- versus long-term), energy (including operating efficiency and embodied carbon), health/indoor air quality, first cost, maintenance, and reliability. Each of the building projects included full mechanical and lighting upgrades, as well as a combination of architectural, plumbing, and fire protection improvements.
Mechanical systems for long-term schools were varied. Geothermal with heat recovery chillers, variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems, central chilled water and heating hot water, dedicated outdoor air units, and unitary equipment were all used. Fishbeck’s design team worked collaboratively with the District’s construction manager and program manager to overcome significant project challenges, such as working with historic buildings, structural constraints, hazardous materials, and project phasing.
