Arizona State University, CenterPoint CIDSE Renovations
Successful renovation projects start with good planning to make sure building systems are right-sized and meet requirements and guidelines.
Three suites in the 12,265 SF CenterPoint Building A in Tempe were remodeled for the ASU Fulton School of Engineering and School of Computing, Informatics and Decision Systems Engineering (CIDSE) with a construction cost of $1.2 million. An office suite on the first floor was remodeled into a Tutoring Center. The center includes a training room with flexible seating along with Interview Rooms for mock interviews. Two large suites on the second floor were remodeled into perimeter offices with large open cubicle space for students along with a lab for robotics and computer diagnostics.
Before design started on the suite remodels, EMC2 performed an evaluation of the building to determine impacts to the mechanical and electrical systems when the occupancy load would be increased. In addition, current building codes, ADA accessibility standards, well known issues and ASU Design guidelines were considered.
Insufficient Ventilation Solved
The evaluation indicated additional make-up and exhaust air were required. This was accomplished through new louvers in existing window and transom openings in the suite areas to accommodate increased occupant densities. Make-up air is designed to “make up” the air in interior space that has been removed due to process exhaust fans. This type of HVAC solution pulls in fresh, tempered air from outside the building to replace existing air that cannot be recirculated. A make-up air solution is recommended for buildings where environmental conditions warrant a greater need for ventilation not only to improve the quality of air within the building, but also protect the health of those inside.
Deficient Restrooms Renovated
The building was deficient in lavatories and ADA accessible restrooms. New single user restrooms were provided on the first and second floors off the main circulation corridors to provide ADA accessibility and meet additional restroom fixture requirements.
Non-ADA-Compliant Millwork Replaced
Existing cabinets and countertops in the suites were replaced to meet ADA accessibility compliance.
Sound Issues Resolved
The ASU tenant spaces are adjacent to exterior patios of downtown Tempe bars and restaurants. At times, noise would prohibit the users from utilizing their space. Through investigation and design with an acoustical consultant, acoustical treatment was added to the windows of the suites, along with a white noise system above the suspended ceilings