Transforming an Existing Structure Through Building Enclosure Performance

Technical Assurance partnered with Heapy Engineering to provide building enclosure commissioning (BECx) services for Kent State University’s Design Innovation Hub and Dining Rehabilitation project. The $39.9 million renovation transformed approximately 68,000 square feet in the heart of the Kent State campus into a student-centered design hub with a dining facility accommodating approximately 350 people.

The extensive renovation stripped the existing building back to its original steel structure. A new building envelope, interior, and infrastructure were then constructed to support the facility’s new use, making enclosure performance and system integration important components of the overall transformation.

Integrating Enclosure Performance from Pre-Design

Technical Assurance’s involvement began during pre-design with review of programmatic requirements and factors affecting enclosure design, construction, durability, serviceability, and performance. The team also assisted in developing the Owner’s Project Requirements to establish expectations for the building enclosure early in the project.

During design and construction documentation, Technical Assurance provided enclosure design reviews and specification development to help translate those performance requirements into the project documents.

Supporting Quality Through Construction and Occupancy

During construction, Technical Assurance reviewed shop drawings and submittals and provided part-time construction observation during critical building enclosure installations. This continued involvement provided independent review as the new enclosure moved from design into constructed conditions.

Building enclosure commissioning continued beyond construction with a 10-month post-occupancy review of the completed enclosure. The Design Innovation Hub was completed in 2020 with a project goal of achieving a minimum of LEED Silver certification.