Sustainable Design Archives

SSOE was selected by Continental AG to perform engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) services for their new 215,000 SF state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in New Braunfels, Texas. The plant manufactures products for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that will help with assisted and automated driving. With ADAS in high demand by car manufacturers, this new facility positions Continental to expand its U.S. research and development footprint and manufacturing capabilities.

The new, future-oriented greenfield campus includes a production facility, office space, warehouse, guard shack, technical building, and cafeteria. The project also included campus infrastructure, integral roads, parking, truck docks, and other site requirements. The innovative, edgy design of the facility integrates with its environmental surroundings and fits the needs of a modern-world production environment.

A high priority for Continental, the facility was designed as a model for energy efficiency and sought LEED® Silver certification upon completion. To help the client meet this goal, SSOE capitalized on our extensive LEED certification experience and our vast network of LEED Accredited Professionals to help formulate a design strategy that fulfilled the client’s sustainability needs and expectations. This included an energy-efficient building shape and innovative solutions in building technologies. The project ultimately received LEED® Gold certification.

SSOE has extensive knowledge of Continental’s specifications and project execution preferences and has delivered successful facilities to them for over a decade. Our recent experience working together on Continental’s “Greenfield Plant of the Future” in Central Mexico was instrumental in leveraging lessons learned to drive efficiency into the facility design.

June 3, 2022/in Manufacturing Sustainable Design, Engineering, Architecture Mexico Page - Home & Projects Overview, Services - Engineering, Markets - Automotive /by Hannah Lee

To support their North American growth in the production of automotive electronic components, Continental AG chose an EPCM approach to deliver a modern, world-class greenfield facility in central Mexico. Due to our deep understanding of what is currently driving Continental’s business, knowledge of their various facilities, ability to successfully partner on large-scale projects, and proximity to the site, SSOE was selected to serve as designer, construction manager, and owner’s agent on the project located in FINSA Industrial Park.

The expert design team we assembled utilized SSOE’s Revit-based platform to create a complex 3D model that was used for weekly review meetings, and can be further utilized by the client’s maintenance staff to make future updates and repairs. Although our U.S. staff served as the discipline leads, we engaged our multidisciplinary, English-speaking team in León, Mexico to heavily support the design phase and bring additional value to our client. During the design phase, our team suggested design enhancements to achieve Continental’s desired vision for the new facility—suggestions were incorporated with no
impact to the original schedule.

Building areas on the 122,000 sq. m. site totaled 24,250 sq. m. and consisted of a single story manufacturing facility and adjacent two-story office, staff area, and cafeteria. The project also included infrastructure lines on-site, internal roads, parking lots, bus drop off and truck waiting areas, as well as median connections to the park road at the boundary of the property. Design was complete within the aggressive five month schedule.

May 31, 2022/in Healthcare, Corporate Workplace Engineering, Data / Fire / Security (DFS), Sustainable Design Midwest U.S., U.S. /by david

ProMedica Health System, a locally owned, non-profit healthcare organization serving Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan established in 1986, has completed the renovation and construction of their new corporate headquarters in downtown Toledo, Ohio. The move to downtown’s waterfront entailed the renovation of the vacant historical Edison Steam Plant, renovation of the adjacent former Key Bank building, and construction of a new multi-level parking structure.

In cooperation with HKS, SSOE was the firm of choice to provide full mechanical, electrical, plumbing, technology, and fire protection (MEPT / FP) design services for the two large commercial office structures. Our team of experts carefully evaluated the existing buildings and the historic aspect of each building that needed to be maintained, and provided detailed engineering design for the HVAC and plumbing systems, the Data / Fire / Security systems, the fire suppression systems, and the electrical system, including site lighting.

The existing Key Bank building will house a new YMCA space in the basement level, the Chop House restaurant on the lobby level, and office spaces on floors two, three, and four. The large variety of mixed building use is unique to this type of project but was successfully handled by the design team. SSOE is proud to be a part of this local project that promotes economic growth and urban revitalization. The project was completed in August 2017.

November 19, 2021/in Residential / Hospitality Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. Markets - Residential / Hospitality /by Hannah Lee

New Downtown Housing Development

The goal of 728 Market St. was to provide a new workforce housing development in Chattanooga, revitalizing the downtown area. Challenges of the downtown site include managing space constraints, addressing wind loads, providing light / views, and offering a product the market would positively respond to.

Mix Of Units

This project includes 125 residential units, of which there is a 85%-15% mix of one bedrooms to two bedrooms. The units feature sliding glass doors, operable windows, LVT plank flooring, and modern kitchens with granite tops and a stainless appliance package.

Shared Elements

Residents also share an amenity space with a workout room and roof deck for entertaining. Below the seven residential levels, there are 65 parking spaces for the residents, a level of loft office space, and retail / restaurant tenants at the street level. The project is certified “LEED for Homes.”

November 1, 2021/in Manufacturing Sustainable Design, Engineering, Architecture Southeast U.S. Services - Sustainable Design /by Hannah Lee

SSOE provided architectural design, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and LEED® and energy modeling services on this new 25,000 SF North Warehouse and Distribution Center for the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS). This new space now consolidates all warehousing efforts onto the National Institute of Health (NIH) campus, not only increasing security, but eliminating the need for off-site leasing facilities.

The client’s goal was to design and construct the facility as a source basis Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB), a building that produces enough renewable energy to off-set its total source energy consumption on an annual basis. Net zero buildings are recognized worldwide as one of the highest aspirations in energy performance in the built environment. Creating a net zero building requires two basic steps. The first step is to increase energy efficiency through efficient building construction, efficient systems and appliances, operations and maintenance, and changes in user behavior. The second step is to address the remaining energy needs with on-site renewable energy generation. SSOE helped the NIEHS achieve both of these.

Since Title IV mandates that federally owned and operated facilities include LEED, the SSOE team not only designed a NZEB for this project, they also had to achieve LEED compliance for the systems used in the building. While the minimum acceptable certification level for the project was LEED Gold, the project team was able to achieve LEED Platinum in early October 2018. Additionally, the facility is the only NZEB in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Based on the calculations from the energy model, the project will save the client 157,000 kWh/year or approximately $12,381 year.

September 20, 2021/in Government / Judicial Architecture, Engineering, Master Planning, Sustainable Design, Interior Design /by Hannah Lee

Master Planning

SSOE was selected by the City of Decatur to provide design services for renovations and additions to the Decatur Public Works Facility. Two adjacent properties will be master planned to provide expanded space for the various public works departments, as well as consolidating two other city departments: City Schools of Decatur facilities and grounds maintenance; and the planning, zoning and engineering departments.

Schematic Design

We are providing architectural, engineering, and interior design services including site analysis and schematic design, design development, construction documents, and bid assistance. The existing 15,000 SF facility will be completely renovated with all new systems, finishes, furniture, and equipment, and will include an additional 15,000 SF of new construction.

Facade Enhancements

The city also purchased two adjacent parcels for additional space to be used for maintenance equipment storage. The design contemplates a new exterior facade compatible with the evolving, mixed-use neighborhood. The project incorporates the City of Decatur design guidelines for streetscape and pedestrian street enhancements. The new facility is now LEED certified.

September 1, 2021/in Government / Judicial Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. Page - Home & Projects Overview, Markets - Government / Judicial /by Hannah Lee

New Home of Georgia’s Judicial Branch

The State of Georgia’s Nathan Deal Judicial Center is the first state-building in the history of Georgia devoted entirely to the judiciary. The seven-story, 224,500 SF facility houses the Supreme Court of Georgia, the Georgia Court of Appeals, and the newly created state-wide Business Court. This significant facility was designed to complement the State Capitol Building (Edbrooke and Burnham built circa 1889) and expand the Capitol Hill District across from Capitol Avenue. SSOE partnered with Robert A.M. Stern Architects to design a facility in the classical architectural approach that symbolizes the dignity of the courts from the beginnings of the republic.

State Leadership

The placement and orientation of the building is directly on axis with the dome of the State Capitol Building and the curved façade responds to the prominent Capital Avenue, Memorial Drive, and 1-20, I-75 / 85 intersections. Like the Capitol’s Legislative Chamber, the building features a central atrium that is elliptical, 112-feet in height, and connects six floors. The Supreme Court and Court of Appeals Courtrooms open onto the atrium that also provides stunning views of Capitol Hill and Downtown Atlanta and beyond.

SSOE worked in partnership with the courts, the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission (GSFIC), the Georgia Building Authority, and the Georgia State Properties Office from programming and planning, site selection, design, and construction over 10 years to complete this historic commission. Employing energy-efficient HVAC systems, LED lighting, water-saving devices, and Georgia-sourced materials including granite and marble, the facility is one of few in Georgia to achieve a three out of four Peaches in the Georgia Peach Green Building Rating System.

“This is a magnificent architectural achievement that should evoke pride in the entire state … it embodies the ideals of our courts, as well as Governor [Nathan] Deal’s deeply personal commitment to criminal justice reform and to this great state.”

Associate Justice Clarence Thomas, U.S. Supreme Court, at Nathan Deal Judicial Center Dedication Ceremony

August 28, 2021/in Residential / Hospitality Architecture, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. Markets - Residential / Hospitality /by Hannah Lee

Adaptive Reuse

SSOE is serving as the lead architect on the residential portion of the historic renovation and adaptive reuse of the Sears, Roebuck & Company building, located on Ponce de Leon in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood.

Urban Centerpiece

As the largest adaptive reuse project in Atlanta’s history, Ponce City Market will restore 2.1 million square feet of space, creating a vibrant urban centerpiece that combines 300,000 square feet of retail and restaurants, 450,000 square feet office space, and 259 residential units.

Numerous Residential Options

The residential units are a mix of studio, one, two, and three bedroom units with the option of a single or multi-level loft. The entire projects cost is more than $200,000,000.

The project achieved LEED Silver accreditation and “LEED for Homes” certification.

August 27, 2021/in Government / Judicial Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. Markets - Government / Judicial /by Hannah Lee

Catalyst For Revitalization

Beyond answering overdue programmatic needs for the County, the new Judicial Center has become a catalyst for revitalization of the city’s downtown core. By transforming a vacant parking lot into the County’s new Center for Justice, our design team was able to create a beautiful, hardscaped entry portico along North Harvin Street.

Addressing Site Challenges

Additionally, a linear park was created, which spans the setback area from East Calhoun Street southward toward East Hampton Street. Required site circulation concerns were placed well away from the public side of the courthouse. All service vehicles and courthouse traffic now share a driveway toward the northeast corner of the facility, while a small restricted parking lot was created for the judges.

Traditional Elements

Based on traditional architectural elements, the new courthouse features four courtrooms, Clerk of Court, Sheriff’s holding area, judges’ chambers, jury deliberation rooms, public areas, and security core.

August 20, 2021/in Higher Education Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. Services - Sustainable Design /by Hannah Lee

Engineering Design For New Business School

SSOE’s engineering team recently completed the electrical, mechanical, structural, and civil design of the University of South Carolina’s new Darla Moore School of Business. The school features a number of flexible classrooms and conference rooms, student work spaces and administrative and faculty suites.

State-Of-The-Art Features

With more than 250,000-square feet of floor space (Levels 0 – 5), building highlights also include a five-story central courtyard and enclosed garden pavilion, as well as a 500-seat auditorium.

State’s First LEED Platinum Facility

Tasked with the goal to design, construct and commission one of the state’s first LEED Platinum buildings, the new Moore School of Business is on par to achieve Net-Zero energy use, by becoming one of the first Net-Zero Energy buildings of its kind in the southeastern United States.

First Net-Zero Energy Building

SSOE worked hand-in-hand with lead architect Rafael Viñoly, the U.S. Department of Energy and Lawrence Berkeley Labs, to design a modern, yet contemporary, state-of-the-art facility capable of generating as much energy as it will consume through the used of advanced technologies.

A Note From Debbie Brumbaugh, Chief Financial Officer And Director Of Administrative Services

“The entire SSOE team provided exceptional professional support for us throughout our project and often were the main supporters of our vision when challenges arose. Their team seemed to always retain focus on our specifications, expectations, and the intended design plan and were careful to avoid “over compromising” when differences occurred. They could be relied upon to explore and solve complicated challenges in ways that were efficient and favorable for our School.”

August 19, 2021/in Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. /by Hannah Lee

New Library Branch

SSOE provided architectural and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering design services for the new 25,000 SF Milton Branch Library. The project team worked closely with the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System and the community to receive input on the project.

Four-Acre Site

The four-acre wooded site features significant existing trees, large outdoor program space, drive-up materials return, and patron drop-off which is adjacent and connected to proposed pedestrian, cycling, and horse back trail system.

August 19, 2021/in Corporate Workplace Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. /by Hannah Lee

Designing A New Home

SSOE provided architecture, engineering, and interior design services for the relocation of Atlanta Habitat for Humanity. Moving to a new site on Memorial Drive, the scope included the complete renovation of the 1950-era Pittsburgh Plate Glass Distribution Warehouse. New facilities included the 25,000 SF Family Support Center, the 45,000 SF House Crew Operations Warehouse, and a new 24,000 SF ReStore retail outlet.

Renovations For A Better Tomorrow

The 5.5-acre master plan included employee, customer, and volunteer parking, house crew trailer parking, and loading service areas. In addition to the incorporation of the new parking areas, the design complies with the Beltline Overlay District’s requirements for new sidewalks, street trees, and landscaping.

Sustainable Features

The new facilities also include several sustainable design features such as improved daylighting by way of a renovated clerestory system in the warehouse; the use of reclaimed building materials; and a Rainwater Harvesting System which stores up to 70,000 gallons of water for re-use by neighboring organization Trees Atlanta.

A Note From Don Maddox, Jr., Executive Vice President And COO Of Atlanta Habitat For Humanity

“These new facilities support our mission of making adequate and affordable housing a matter of conscience and action. During all phases of the project, SSOE demonstrated considerable skill in managing the design within the budget and meeting our timetable for moving into the new facilities. The team remained resilient and creative dealing with the [numerous] discoveries found during a very challenging renovation. [In the end] the results have been a great benefit to our staff, customers and volunteers.”

August 19, 2021/in Higher Education Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. /by Hannah Lee

Support For Instructional Needs

SSOE has completed the design of Albany State University’s new Fine Arts Center. Located on the university’s Upper Campus, the $18.5 million facility will support instructional needs for music, visual arts, english, and modern languages departments.

Building Features

Academic spaces include classrooms, computer labs, art studios, faculty music studios, and individual music practice modules. The main lobby accesses an art gallery, performance theater, and choir / recital room for public events and performances.

A Note From Art Dunning, Albany State University President

“I think culturally, economically, and socially the new Fine Arts Center adds a lot of assets to this community. We, as a university community, will always be thoughtful about how we use it because it’s not just a physical facility. It’s a facility that will house music, the arts, and places where people can always come together!”

SSOE teamed with Albany-based architectural firm, Yielding Wakeford & McGee Architects, on the new 80,290 SF facility. The building is LEED Silver certified.

August 17, 2021/in Higher Education Engineering, Sustainable Design, Interior Design Southeast U.S. /by Hannah Lee

Addressing On-Campus Growth

The 176,026 SF student recreation and activities center was expanded and renovated to accommodate Kennesaw State University’s enrollment growth to 20,000 students. The center was completed as a phased construction project, arranged to keep the existing facility operational throughout the 18-month construction cycle.

Two-Story Fitness Atrium

The center was expanded to create a 300-foot long, two-story fitness atrium including free weight, cardio, fitness, group exercise areas, and new locker rooms.

New Facility Features

New facility features include four court gyms with looping jogging tracks around the upper level of the gym, a two-story climbing wall, an indoor lap pool, and a bike shop with a convenient equipment checkout area. In addition, the exterior recreation area includes sand volleyball, basketball, tennis courts, and an outdoor leisure pool.

The new student recreation & activities center, which is certified LEED Silver, was a collaboration with Cooper Carry, Architect of Record, and Hardin Construction Company, the Design-Build project lead. Our firm provided interior design and engineering services.

August 13, 2021/in Higher Education Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. Services - Master Planning /by Hannah Lee

New 96-Acre Campus

Located on a 96-acre site in Northeast Georgia, SSOE is working with prime design professional Pond and Lanier Technical College on their new Hall County Campus. Construction will take place over a three-year period and will include six new buildings, associated surface parking, and related site amenities. The new 310,000 SF replacement campus is slated to achieve two out of three peaches from the state of Georgia’s sustainable design grading program.

Programming

Campus Vision and Project Goals: The new vision for the Lanier Technical College site will be to provide a 21st Century campus for education, continuing education, and workforce development training opportunities over various programs.

Programming Project Goals

To date, the following project goals / objectives were identified: 1) Create a “cutting edge” campus that fits into the architectural vernacular of the community; 2) Integrate student life activities throughout each new facility on campus; 3) Create a campus that will become a showplace for economic development; 4) Incorporate spaces for future growth; and 5) Create buildings that are distinctive in character and that will promote student success via a nurturing campus environment that will become “the place to be” for students, staff, community, and industry partners to work, learn, and expand workforce opportunities. In addition to the Campus Support facilities, Technology & Industrial Education and Allied Health, SSOE is specifically focused on the following projects.

Administration & Student Success Center

Viewed as the new “iconic front door” to the campus, the Administration and Student Success Building will be comprised of the Office of the President, Student Services, and Student Life – each requiring a unique, responsive, and dynamic facility solution. The goal of the building is to create a high-quality supportive learning environment that prepares students to enter the workforce and will be the first stop for each person on campus. Entry roads, parking, directional signage, and iconic design will reinforce the college’s message that “Great Careers Begin Here.”

Student Affairs and Bursar functions will also be located to maximize opportunities for student reception and engagement. A “one stop shop” concept for customer service will be incorporated for student services, while a large and spacious circulation concourse will feature soft seating and information kiosks that will reinforce student access, utilization, and connection to services for advisement, financial aid, counseling, and placement.

Instructional Building

The new Instructional Building will house the General Education, Adult Education, Business and Computer Technology, and Early Childhood Development programs. The building will feature numerous integrated technology classrooms / labs, studios, and small and large group areas all designed around problem-based learning (PBL), team-based learning (TBL), and a student-centered active learning environment with evolving pedagogies.

Conference Center

The new Conference Center will feature a 225-seat auditorium, 10,000 SF Exhibit Hall, Testing Center, Culinary Arts Facility, and break-out classrooms. To encourage the development of a “community of learning,” collaborative study zones, magnet spaces, and student spaces will be located in the Conference Center and across campus to allow students to wither work in teams, study or, simply, relax.

Six Buildings – 310,000 SF Total

Instructional Building: 44,281 SF; Administration & Student Success Center: 46,004 SF; Tech & Industries Building: 94,500 SF; Allied Health Building: 61,000 SF; Campus Support Facility: 32,300 SF; Conference Center: 44,500 SF

August 13, 2021/in Residential / Hospitality Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. /by Hannah Lee

Multifunctional Gathering Space

Originally built in 1936 by the Public Works Administration (PWA) as part of Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s “New Deal,” the concept for the National Bean Market Museum was to create elevated flanking wings and transform the building into a multifunctional public gathering space.

Renovations And Upgrades

Renovations included ADA accessible areas, a restroom expansion, a catering kitchen, several energy-conserving systems, a mechanical geothermal well system, and new HVAC, fire protection, and electrical system upgrades.

Redesigning An Historic Attraction

Known as the world’s largest truck auction of green beans, the new National Bean Market Museum, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is LEED certified by the U.S. Green Building Council, and is part of a large scale initiative to redesign and highlight cultural and historical attractions in the Pee Dee region of South Carolina.

August 12, 2021/in Architecture, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. /by Hannah Lee

Addressing The Needs Of The Community

The existing Northlake – Barbara Loar Branch Library was built in 1991, in the post-modern style and required updating and additional space to fit the needs of the community. The design of the addition and renovation of the library presented an opportunity to create an integrated space, where old and new spaces flow seamlessly together.

Expanding The Design’s “Ship” Metaphor

The architecture of the addition plays off the existing post-modern design, expanding the “ship” metaphor through its literal form. The expanded Children’s Area occupies the prominent “prow” of the ship and the new teen area incorporates a “space-age” aesthetic. Casual reading areas and secluded meeting spaces are scattered throughout the collections. Interior views are maximized through extensive, playful layout of windows.

Sustainable Elements

The renovation of the Northlake – Barbara Loar Branch Library included the following sustainable design elements: recycled content carpet tile; low-VOC paints; Low-E glazing; Energy Star-rated fixtures; maximize open space (positive way to saying limit site disturbance); highly-reflective roof surface; exceed minimum energy performance; maintain significant portions of existing building components; Low-VOC interior finishes; daylight and views for a majority of spaces.

August 10, 2021/in Residential / Hospitality Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. Markets - Residential / Hospitality /by Hannah Lee

The Annie E. Casey Foundation selected SSOE as the architect for the Nia Building given the adaptive reuse elements and sustainable focus for the project. Columbia Core Partners (a partnership between Core Venture Studio and Columbia Ventures) facilitated ongoing community engagement and project management. Through years of monthly neighborhood meetings and hard-hat tours, garnering resident feedback, and conducting market research, the transformation of Pittsburgh Yards is a catalytic development that encourages economic and entrepreneurial growth for the neighborhoods of NPU-V.

Downtown Atlanta’s New Opportunity Zone

Pittsburgh Yards bookends the southern edge of the Pittsburgh neighborhood and aims to create opportunities for an equitable distribution of income, career development, and entrepreneurship for residents in the surrounding NPU-V neighborhoods. What will ultimately be a 30-acre development at 352 University Avenue, Pittsburgh Yards serves as a transitional conduit between the neighborhood streets and the interconnected activity of the Atlanta BeltLine’s commercial and recreational traffic.

The Nia Building, A Small Business Hub

Land that once served as agricultural fields after the Civil War, then evolved into an industrial-focused shipping facility as the railways and roadways expanded, is now seeing a new way in which to serve the surrounding communities. Pittsburgh Yards transformed an expansive sea of asphalt and remnant structures into a vibrant infill development. Newly completed Phase I includes the Nia Building—a hub for over 100 small businesses and makers—along with a shipping container courtyard, five pad sites for future buildings, and a large community green space all within 15-acres of tree-lined streets and parking. The project is targeting LEED Silver certification through using local materials, water conservation, energy efficiency, and a vast solar array on the high roof.

Preserving The Structure’s Original Bones

Occupying the footprint of what was originally an old trucking facility, the Nia Building was nothing more than rusty steel columns and trusses on an elevated slab with a few brick-ruin additions attached, fondly nicknamed the “Whale Skelton Building.” New construction sought to preserve the “bones” by framing a high roof above the existing structure, leaving the patinaed trusses on display. Exterior walls follow the footprint of the existing slab, playing with the elevation changes throughout, and old tracks that once pulled carts from bay to bay in the past shipping days were preserved. Collectively, three different wings comprise 101 individual tenant spaces of varied size, called “maker modules,” along with two conference rooms, two shared shop areas, a breakroom, privacy rooms, and a central amphitheater and breakout / touchdown space. Additions outside of the original footprint include a food studio and market / café space. The north addition includes the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s Office with five affordable-rate apartment units on the second level, and the entire roof area serves as a deck for events and tenant gatherings with sweeping views of the full 30-acre site and Pittsburgh neighborhood.

“This Isn’t Just Development That’s Happening In Isolation Of The Community—It’s Truly The Vision Of The Community.” – Joyce Shepherd, Atlanta City Councilwoman, District 12

August 7, 2021/in Higher Education Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. Markets - Higher Education /by Hannah Lee

Re-Imagined Core Campus

Following Clemson’s 2002 Core Campus Housing Precinct Study, the university decided to replace three major buildings in the middle of its Core Campus. By re-imaging the look, feel, and use of the University’s Core Campus, the new housing development will address the university’s need to create a forward-thinking and innovative mixed-use center for students, faculty, and staff.

New Spaces

Initial programming outlined new and replacement space within the Core Campus, which will include a new University Union, three residence halls, a new campus post office, residential and retail dining areas, and small, strategic, doses of academic space.

Multi-Party Effort

The design team includes, SSOE, VMDO Architects, and Sasaki Associates. The project has achieved a LEED Silver rating from the U.S. Green Building Council.

The Clemson University Core Campus Precinct is a three building residence hall with 179,000 SF of living space, 76,000 SF of retail and dining, and 5,000 SF of academic space.

August 5, 2021/in Higher Education Architecture, Engineering, Data / Fire / Security (DFS), Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. Markets - Higher Education /by Hannah Lee

Social Heart Of Campus

The Oxford Student Center (OSC) is the new social heart of Emory University’s original campus located in Oxford, GA. Serving as the new home of campus life activities and as the new front door to the campus, the project creates a welcoming entrance, an authentic Oxford College first impression for prospective students and the Oxford Community, all centered around student activity. Thoughtful attention to details, lighting, colors, scale, materials, and furniture supports student success and activities, projecting the college’s diversity, overarching excellence, and leadership in academic, research, stainability, and technology.

Timeless Story Telling

The project consisted of the renovation of a recently replaced mid-century dining hall (20,000 SF), a two-level addition (12,000 SF), and site improvements integrating the project into existing pathways and plazas. The OSC fosters first-year student engagement and second-year student leadership through collaborative student organization space that supports the 90+ student organizations on campus, a multipurpose forum created from the original dining room, a cafe, a bookstore, social lounges, gaming “hot spot” and Campus Life offices. The design solution promotes the students’ sense of ownership and belonging, a place they are comfortable using, changing, and shaping to work for them.

In addition to supporting student success and building community the project champions sustainability and environmental stewardship. The design optimizes building energy performance through energy-saving systems and strategies (chilled beams, LED lighting) utilizing the existing building infrastructure, orientation, and the site to the greatest extent. The OSC should achieve a reduction of nearly 30% in energy consumption (vs. ASHRAE 90.1-2010) targeting an annual EUI below 60 (consuming 59.33 kBtu/SF/yr) with over 40% reduction in water consumption.

A Note From American School & Universities Jury Member

“Nice introduction of colors against the contextual wood and tile. Maintains a sophisticated aesthetic while being inviting. Appropriate scale with a variety of spaces and gathering sizes. A casual and relaxed atmosphere where any student would feel at home.”

August 2, 2021/in Higher Education Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. Markets - Higher Education /by Hannah Lee

Comprehensive Renovation

SSOE, in association with VMDO Architects, provided architectural design support and full engineering design services for the comprehensive renovation of Glenn & Towers Residence Halls.

Updated Systems

Project scope included updating the buildings’ mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and HVAC systems as well as providing design services for the renovation of student areas that included all restrooms, lounges, kitchens, laundry facilities, and residential units.

Creating New Spaces

The renovation also included the addition of program space between the existing buildings, which now include exercise, meeting, study, and lobby spaces. Elevators were added to each of the existing buildings to provide accessible vertical circulation.

Additional Design Features

New dormers were proposed on the quad side of the building to add nine new student residence rooms in each building with the rest of the attic containing a lounge, community toilets, laundry, and mechanical space.

The new Glenn & Towers Residence Halls are LEED Gold certified.

March 31, 2021/in Higher Education, Workforce Development / Training Centers Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design, Interior Design Midwest U.S. Markets - Higher Education, Services - Architecture, Markets - Workforce Development /by Hannah Lee

Creating a facility poised from the start to attract talent and produce workers with relevant skillsets now and into the future is the goal of Henry Ford College (HFC) with their expanded Entrepreneur and Innovation Institute / Technology Building. HFC worked with SSOE to create spaces that fuel innovation and entrepreneurship. The Student Commons, a destination space, links the existing spaces to new. The inspiring design allows students informal areas for networking, collaborating, and impromptu learning. The renovation includes spaces for teaming, hands-on learning, and fostering the spirit of “out of the box thinking.”

The project includes the renovation of existing classrooms and lab spaces as well as the addition of 24,000 SF of new space in the Technology Building. Upgrades will include structure, envelope, interior finishes, HVAC, lighting, electrical, and plumbing. This project will allow for continued renovations initiated in 2015 and has a total estimated budget of $14.9 million.

HFC’s 24,000 SF addition will create multi-disciplinary labs, including a new Makerspace / Innovation Hub, automotive labs, as well as the Entrepreneurship and Business Skills Center needed to support changing programs and curricula, the regional demand for workforce training, and business and industry partnership initiatives.

This new construction will also improve building and program access and internal circulation, while addressing the lack of breakout / collaborative workspaces critical for student success. Lastly, the addition will house a new campus Energy Plant to support the college’s goal of a Net Zero campus. SSOE will work closely with HFC’s energy partners, Johnson Controls and Garforth International, to integrate the College’s $23.1 million Integrated Energy Master Plan (IEMP) into this project.

Several of the programs and physical spaces that will be positively impacted by this project include the Transportation / Automotive Technology Program, the HFC Fabrication Lab, Product Development Center (“Makerspace”), Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Business Skills Center, HFC Advanced Manufacturing Early College, and improved learning spaces in the Technology Building. These upgrades continue to reinforce HFC’s mission of transforming lives and building better futures by providing outstanding education.

January 9, 2020/in Automotive, Workforce Development / Training Centers Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. /by Hannah Lee

As a part of the agreement with Volkswagen, the State of Tennessee funded the $40 million dollar investment for the new Volkswagen Academy. The Academy sits on top of a hill, looking down at the actual plant, and is connected via an enclosed pedestrian bridge. The parking area at the Academy also serves as the main parking lot for the factory.

The Academy was designed to be a state-of-the-art training center for preparing workers for their jobs at the new factory in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The Academy is operated in conjunction with Chattanooga State Technical Community College with the support of other local universities and educational facilities. Most of the Academy is surrounded by windows, allowing natural lighting throughout the structure, and included the use of daylight sensors to maintain appropriate lighting levels.

Volkswagen Academy is approximately 153,000 SF, which includes a lean manufacturing center, a manufacturing and automation center for basic and advanced training, and an automotive training area. The training simulates all aspects of the manufacturing process, but on a smaller scale to allow for hands-on training. The facility includes 19 classrooms, a cafeteria, a gift shop, a coffee shop, and a conference center.

The conference center houses a large, open auditorium area that can be viewed from not only the first floor, but also the office area above. This area has movable partitions to allow for individual conference rooms to be created. The conference center also includes a board room with adjacent meeting rooms.

The Academy achieved LEED® Platinum certification.

January 9, 2020/in Workforce Development / Training Centers Architecture, Master Planning, Sustainable Design Midwest U.S. /by Hannah Lee

SSOE served as the planning consultant to FGM Architects for Phases 1, 2, and 3 for this comprehensive transportation, distribution, and logistics center for a higher education facility. The project is part of the City Colleges of Chicago “College to Careers” initiative, which works to revolutionize city colleges to meet the demand of the high-growth sectors of the future. The facility will serve as the first comprehensive Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics (TDL) education in its area, preparing students for careers in ground, air, and rail transport, as well as multi-modal distribution and logistics.

The new center will feature a high-tech warehouse environment, laboratories, workshops, classrooms, and virtual reality simulation facilities and will replace nearly 112,000 SF of temporary classroom space. The building is expected to achieve LEED Silver certification upon completion for its sustainable features.

The project is being administered by the Capital Development Board and completed as funding becomes available. SSOE is serving as the planning consultant related to transportation maintenance shop areas and the equipment in the shop areas.

July 9, 2018/in Corporate Workplace Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Midwest U.S. Markets - Corporate Workplace /by Hannah Lee

Increased profit potential while creating $1 million in operational savings from catalyst system improvements.

SSOE and The Hershey Company have a long history of working together. As a result, SSOE was selected to perform A/E services for their Global Shared Services renovation, which will turn approximately 50,000 SF of the former manufacturing space into open office space.

The project program required a plan for 250 employees, with two workstation sizes (42 SF and 49 SF) and no private offices. Conference rooms of various sizes were provided in the plan, as well as smaller private meeting spaces for confidential conversation. Serveries—full kitchens with water, refrigeration, and dishwashers—were provided as part of large collaboration areas. An exterior deck was also part of the design with full access to wireless technology, supporting the program requirement that work takes place in both traditional and non-traditional environments.

The former industrial aesthetic of the manufacturing space was preserved, including exposed structure, ductwork, and pendant lighting. Original stone walls and maple flooring were also preserved in select areas. Raised access flooring was provided to level the original manufacturing floors and provide power / data wiring to the workstations. The project received LEED Gold certification.

June 27, 2018/in Glass, Corporate Workplace Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S., U.S. Markets - Corporate Workplace /by Hannah Lee

Native plantings and selection of low-flow plumbing create $5,000 in water savings annually. Use of highly efficient, sustainable systems and materials saves $5,000 in energy savings annually.

Owens Corning, a leader in the glass fiber industry, selected SSOE to design and engineer a new 27,000 SF Business and Technology Center in Gastonia, North Carolina. Connected to the company’s adjacent state-of-the-art non-woven glass fiber fabric plant, the technology center houses operations offices as well as research and development facilities for advances in Owens Corning bio-based products.

A Focus on Sustainability

Achieving LEED certification for this project was a key client objective. Early in the design process, SSOE led an “eco-charrette” that brought together all stakeholders, designers, and contractors to engage in an integrative process to analyze opportunities for sustainable design. Ideas generated in the charrette led to notable environmental and energy savings accomplishments:

The facility consumes 25% less energy than similar structures equipped with conventional systems and materials
Achieved 36% water use reduction by installing low-flow metered plumbing fixtures and faucets
Used energy efficient glazing along three façades of the building to optimize natural daylight and views of the natural environment

Distinctive Design, Welcoming Entry

Extensive site design resulted in an appealing façade with a welcoming entry and a strong daylight component. Careful evaluation of exterior materials led SSOE to design a unique longboard curtain wall that enhances and unifies the appearance of the building and adjacent manufacturing facility.

Landscape Design Creates Win‐Win Scenario

Restoring natural habitat and removing irrigation from the site was an additional design challenge that resulted in a win‐win scenario for stakeholders and environment alike. Because the industrial park had very strict requirements for site irrigation, SSOE – with the client and the local civil team – created a landscape design featuring native plants
and vegetation.

June 27, 2018/in Corporate Workplace, Semiconductor / Advanced Technology Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Western U.S., U.S. /by Hannah Lee

SSOE completed a complex programming and schematic design effort for an approximately 1,100,000 SF, seven-story multipurpose building that serves as a model for workplaces of the future.

The building contains a 2.6 MW data center, two floors of class 10,000 high-tech cleanroom manufacturing and chip testing space, with five floors of office, cafe, and fitness center spaces to accommodate approximately 3,800 employees. Linked connections to neighboring buildings were created to provide passage for employees, utilities, and automated material handling systems. A pedestrian sky bridge to the parking garage was designed to accommodate a direct, convenient connection without impacting the existing wetlands. The project, utilizing a high-performance envelope, daylighting strategies, and high-efficiency mechanical systems, met the criteria for LEED Silver certification.

The office levels were organized into neighborhoods consisting of workstation groups, collaboration rooms, and community zones. These were combined with support spaces based on a formula for connectivity and an interactive office environment. Small and large community zones are located throughout the floor at strategic points where employees can work, meet informally, or relax as a community.

The objective was to create a design aesthetic to complement the existing campus architecture. Throughout the design process, this goal was elevated to create a distinctive architectural look that reflects the values of our client and today’s workers.

June 7, 2018/in Automotive, Manufacturing Architecture, Engineering, Data / Fire / Security (DFS), Sustainable Design Southeast U.S., U.S. /by raincastle

Permit requests done in parallel to reduce project execution schedule and meet permitting needs. 30% savings in energy use.

When the Anniston Army Depot (ANAD) and the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) embarked on a project to consolidate the transmission remanufacturing process for all tracked military vehicles it serviced into a new, world class manufacturing facility, they enlisted SSOE to provide full facility architectural and engineering design services, as well as equipment migration design for the new facility.

As one of the top ranked firms in automotive facility design, SSOE brought state-of-the-art technology into an open floor plan, while modernizing and consolidating ANAD’s transmission remanufacturing program. This enabled a more efficient process flow from transmission disassembly through the cleaning process, to reassembly and testing.

The scope included design to support the relocation, installation, and point-of-use connections for more than 170 existing pieces of equipment from 13 buildings on the site. Additionally, more than 70 cranes, up to 10 dynamometers, and more than 30 pieces of new process machinery, both government and contractor furnished, were integrated into the facility. This project also incorporated the expansion of an existing 15kv switch yard to support the facility.

SSOE considered potential site constraints including Anti-Terrorism Force Act (ATFA) requirements, existing boundaries and easements, environmental permitting, and a concurrent USACE Cold Water Creek Relocation project, as well as project specific permits required to move an additional tributary creek flowing through the site. SSOE recommended that permit requests be done in parallel to reduce overall project execution schedule.

The facility, which is LEED Silver certified, also supports all applicable energy sustainability standards, including a 30% decrease in existing energy use, sustainable solutions for grass and landscaping, and the incorporation of natural light and high reflectant materials to minimize heat gain.

June 7, 2018/in Automotive Program / Project Management, Architecture, Engineering, Master Planning, Sustainable Design International /by raincastle

Input from programming phase was used to eliminate duplicate space requirements and reduce the building footprint by 15%. Additionally, developed method to capture and reuse energy generated during dynamometer testing process throughout the facility.

To meet the market demand for new products in China, GM built its first Chinese R&D facility in Shanghai. This facility, which is the most comprehensive and advanced automotive development center in China, included areas for advanced vehicle development, powertrain design, electrical and fuel cell design, chassis, HVAC, body, exterior and interior development, and telematics. SSOE applied its vast experience in designing automotive R&D facilities, and familiarity with the Chinese design and construction process to deliver this high caliber, sustainable project.

SSOE designed an interior hydrogen fuel cell garage space, along with an exterior hydrogen fueling station and garage space. Special considerations, including distance from nearby high rises, were made during design due to safety considerations. Fuel farms were also integrated to provide for blending and testing operations for hydrogen-based vehicles and hybrids.

A significant design feature was a central garage space that separated the building into two halves. The central garage space functions as a central spine and serves as a common use area for multiple groups. It potentially allows groups to share tooling.

Another feature was a visually secure, exterior patio for GM to view vehicles in natural sunlight. This requirement created an interesting challenge since the site was located within city limits and near a multiple story building. SSOE designed a visual screen to obstruct the view from the building while still allowing the natural sunlight to enter the space.

SSOE provided an innovative design which minimized environmental impact, while maximizing occupant safety, health, and comfort. Design criteria also emphasized the use of sustainable materials and other energy reduction features.

June 7, 2018/in Food & Beverage Engineering, Sustainable Design Western U.S., U.S. /by raincastle

Decrease natural gas use by 30 billion BTUs a year; saved 19 million gallons of water during first year; project savings of more than $280,000.

When a long-time food manufacturing client wanted to assess opportunities for energy savings at one of its facilities, SSOE had the expertise to both evaluate existing plants and systems and also recommend and implement process and mechanical improvements to achieve cost and energy savings. By conducting an energy savings audit, including heat recovery potentials, SSOE helped identify areas for energy savings.

SSOE first reviewed heat recovery and other energy saving opportunities at the plant. Over a two-month period they conducted an FEL 1 study on three different projects where the client had initiated plans for energy conservation. SSOE determined whether or not the client’s projects were viable enough in terms of expected results and return on investment (ROI) to proceed in implementing. The results and SSOE’s recommendations were then provided to the client for further internal action.

SSOE’s energy audit proved to be successful, as it identified potential energy savings of over 70 billion BTUs per year (70 million cubic feet of natural gas per year). SSOE also reported more than $280,000 savings on the project.

June 7, 2018/in Automotive Architecture, Engineering, Data / Fire / Security (DFS), Sustainable Design Midwest U.S., U.S. /by raincastle

Created a detailed RFP and negotiated with multiple vendors to reduce material and installation costs, saving the client nearly $150,000.

SSOE’s in-house Data/ Fire/ Security (DFS) team designed data, fire, CCTV, security systems, and voice systems for a 500,000 SF Research and Development (R&D) facility. Several state-of-the-art video conference and projection rooms were designed, as well as a 3,250 SF, Tier 4 data center and back-up power system to support all of the data and server needs.

The data distribution system was designed with in-floor data communication ports and wireless connectivity. The building communication infrastructure was designed to standards far exceeding TIA/EIA standards. More than 150 networked interior and exterior CCTV camera were installed to monitor and protect the owner’s intellectual property. Placement of the cameras and video storage needs were evaluated and determined by SSOE with 3D modeling views provided for reference.

The team designed a fire alarm system that was integrated into the campus style fiber optic fire alarm network, CCTV system, and access control system. The office building’s paging, sound masking, and other notification systems were integrated into the consolidated head-end, so each system took the appropriate action during an alarm condition. SSOE teams designed a complete premier detection system for the facility with several detection devices, including motion detection and glass break sensors.

SSOE integrated sustainable design features which led the main facility to achieve Gold Level LEED certification.

June 7, 2018/in Healthcare Architecture, Engineering, Master Planning, Sustainable Design Midwest U.S., U.S. Markets - Healthcare /by raincastle

By using BIM, the contractor’s GMP pricing was $500,000 under project budget with no change orders for time or cost.

SSOE provided complete planning and design services to develop a new, full service cancer center. Developed by real estate investor Welltower (formerly Health Care REIT), the freestanding facility spans two floors and is situated on a 4.9 acre site.

To offset the feel of a high technology environment, SSOE’s design features exterior and interior colors and details, which create a warm, inviting setting for patients. The first floor contains a radiation oncology suite and common area. The suite will supports future construction of three new linear accelerator vaults, a CT simulator, CT / PET simulator rooms, and related support spaces. The second floor houses a large medical oncology suite, gynecology suite, additional oncology office, and common area.

The design integrates sustainable design principles, and the facility is LEED® Silver certified. Additional green features of the property include a healing garden with a walking path.

June 7, 2018/in Manufacturing Engineering, Data / Fire / Security (DFS), Sustainable Design Western U.S., U.S. Markets - Distribution Centers /by raincastle

14% less energy use for long term savings. Environmental pilot for future facilities.

As part of the Army and Air Force’s initiative to construct all new buildings to green standards, the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) made plans for a new, sustainable retail facility on the Randolph Air Force Base in Texas. The one stop, state-of-the-art facility, serving more than 50,000 active, reserve, and retired military personnel and their dependents, was one of the first AAFES facilities to pursue LEED Silver certification. It was also part of the USGBC’s pilot program to develop LEED guidelines for the retail industry. SSOE spearheaded the design of the facility with a with a food court, sales area, specialty vendors, onsite fuel stations, outdoor lifestyle areas, and a loading dock, while also leading LEED certification efforts.

SSOE designed a data / voice, fire alarm, and mass notification combination system for this 167,000 SF facility. As part of the data communication system, a wireless study was performed to determine the best placement of wireless internet antennas. The wireless system was designed to comply with the IEEE 802.11 wireless standard.

Using more than 20% recycled materials, the facility also features an energy management system to coordinate efficient lighting, heating, and air conditioning systems that reduce energy consumption and costs. A roofing membrane reflects 78% of sunlight minimizing energy use within the facility and water-efficient equipment reduces water consumption by 20%. A central cooling tower and chilled water system provide a high efficiency means to cool the complex. Using 14% less energy than a traditional similar facility, AAFES has used this environmental model as a pilot example of how to conduct future design and construction projects. Other distinctive aspects of the project include implementation of Anti-Terrorism Force Protection (ATFP) standards relative to siting considerations, building controls, and security systems.

June 7, 2018/in Energy / Power Engineering, Sustainable Design, VDC Midwest U.S., U.S. Markets - Energy / Power /by raincastle

SSOE’s efforts, along with other design consultants, will save $100 million a year through sustainable features.

When the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) decided to develop a new site with multiple facilities, SSOE was enlisted to lead design efforts for all Mechanical, Electrical, Pluming (MEP) and structural systems. With a large multidiscipline team in place and innovative use of 3D BIM design, SSOE played an integral role to the success of the project.

Mandated by Kansas City’s Responsive Infrastructure, Manufacturing and Sourcing (KCRIMS) transformation plan, the project was implemented to protect some of the nation’s most premier security assets. The new complex incorporates five buildings, featuring manufacturing spaces, laboratories, office spaces, and warehouses. SSOE led all MEP and structural design efforts for the campus buildings and provided structural and MEP design for a central utility plant, which included a chilled water system, cooling tower system, hot water boiler system, and a compressed air system. SSOE’s scope also included the electrical design of medium and low voltage power, lighting, auxiliary, grounding, and outbuilding systems.

The new campus, which manufactures non-nuclear mechanical, electronic and engineered materials for national defense systems, was developed to replace outdated facilities. SSOE’s efforts enabled the client to upgrade from an outdated complex into a 21st century Nuclear Security Enterprise.

SSOE followed sustainable design principles in an effort to reduce environmental waste, maintenance and energy costs. The efforts from the design team and their consultants will result in saving the client more than $100 million each year and qualified the project for LEED® Gold certification.

June 7, 2018/in Healthcare Program / Project Management, Architecture, Sustainable Design, VDC Midwest U.S., U.S. /by raincastle

BIM’s interrelationship of project data allowed for rapid decision making and quality control review, virtually eliminating problems with dimension strings. A flexible design strategy with phasing plans allowed the hospital to be re-built while maintaining all services.

A small, rural community with a strong sense of history, community pride, and support retained SSOE to program and design an on-site replacement for its only hospital. The new Bryan Hospital replaces the existing facility, which was composed of several buildings of varying ages and conditions, none of which met contemporary standards. SSOE’s design supports 60 beds with capacity for expansion to 100. The hospital has been developed according to LEED® principles.

The main project challenge was to replace the outdated, existing facility, which SSOE addressed by proposing a phased demolition and construction plan. The first phase includes construction of a new energy plant, allowing the remaining hospital wing to be reconnected followed by the integration of new components in stages. The hospital includes leased clinic and shell space for future expansion.

Use of BIM was key in our team’s ability to meet the aggressive project schedule and satisfy budgetary constraints. Since 3D imaging allowed quick representation of the proposed design elements for the owner’s review and approval, BIM became the consummate coordination tool. Used to identify potential conflicts such as slab edge coordination, cross bracing, and major duct runs, BIM virtually eliminated problems with dimension strings. The interrelationship of project data allowed for rapid decision making and quality control review. BIM also easily accommodated any last minute owner modifications.

Featured improvements included new surgery, emergency, intensive care unit, laboratory, obstetrics, recladding of existing facility, new lobby / entry, and complete site work.

June 7, 2018/in Healthcare Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Midwest U.S., U.S. /by raincastle

Due to an increase in patient demand and more stringent care requirements, ProMedica Bay Park Hospital’s existing Intensive Care Unit (ICU) department could not adequately serve its patients. Patient care spaces, equipment, and required technology required upgrades if the facility were to retain its reputation for providing exceptional care.

In an effort to continue serving the community with quality healthcare services, ProMedica decided to construct a new ICU on the second floor of the existing hospital. This allowed the facility to continue providing patient care while the new ICU was constructed. The new, 11,000 SF ICU was constructed above the existing first floor of the hospital, with some portions extending over the loading dock and emergency ambulance drop-off area. The project also involved selective demolition and the renovation of adjacent spaces. The addition of a new dedicated patient elevator provides patients with direct and private access to the new ICU from the ground floor.

Sustainable design initiatives were incorporated into the enhanced building envelope and involved natural and artificial lighting, acoustics, and energy reduction / usage. The inclusion of room and headwall mock-ups were integral to the project success by identifying operations, connections, safety, and access prior to mass production. As a result, the completed ICU rooms clearly articulated patient, family, and caregiver zones.

May 31, 2018/in Glass Engineering, Sustainable Design Northeast U.S., U.S. Markets - Glass /by david

Reduced furnace emissions by converting to oxy-fuel.

When a glass bottle manufacturer wanted to upgrade its furnace and get ahead of potential EPA emissions mandates, it turned to SSOE to define the detailed engineering and construction requirements for the project.

The client had conducted an initial assessment on its own, but wanted to confirm it had considered all aspects of the expansion of its processing facility. They needed to present their stakeholders with accurate estimates for funding approval of the furnace modification. Noting that the EPA was intending to mandate new emissions regulations, the client also wanted to upgrade to a system with lower emissions. As a result, SSOE provided the detailed engineering and construction requirements to convert the furnace to oxy-fuel. After conducting an assessment and outlining the scope of work involved to improve the furnace system, SSOE provided preliminary costs for engineering and construction, as well as procurement of all necessary equipment.

During the planning process, SSOE needed to consider several issues including the relocation of fire lines and a water shed that could not be infringed upon. We also recommended a new electrical power substation for the upgraded oxygen furnace.

May 31, 2018/in Food & Beverage Architecture, Engineering, Data / Fire / Security (DFS), Sustainable Design Southeast U.S., U.S. /by david

SSOE identified more than $3 million in cost savings for this project, which represents more than half of its total fee.

American Snuff, LLC called upon SSOE to provide a project solution for their new tobacco product manufacturing, warehousing, and packaging facility in Memphis, Tennessee. As part of the conceptual design effort, SSOE accompanied American Snuff on walkthroughs of several vacant buildings being considered for the new plant. Based on our observations, SSOE recommended building what would best meet American Snuff’s needs and budget.

SSOE developed and implemented a plan to renovate and reconfigure an existing distribution center to a food grade production and packaging facility and satisfy new FDA regulations for the tobacco industry. The renovation also created spaces for various staff offices, maintenance areas, a developmental lab, a pilot plant, and a new entrance / lobby. SSOE provided structural, civil, fire protection, construction management, project planning, procurement, cost control, HVAC, electrical, commissioning, monitoring and reporting, and scheduling services. A building management system, communications, security, and information technology systems were also part of the project scope.

Environmentally friendly practices were implemented including recycling 60,000 cubic feet of concrete and 50 tons of steel, reuse of excavated soil for backfill, and implementation of LEED® certification prerequisites. Modifications to the building added daylighting and use of energy efficient materials.

May 31, 2018/in Chemical Engineering, Sustainable Design Markets - Chemical /by david

SSOE made more than 30 recommendations to reduce energy use, equaling a combined total annual savings of more than $2 million.

For more than 20 years, SSOE has been providing a leading chemical manufacturer with quality process and facility engineering. When the client wanted to examine ways to decrease the energy consumption at its U.S. manufacturing facilities, they called upon SSOE’s energy management expertise.

SSOE conducted a full-scale energy assessment of one of the client’s largest production facilities. The goal of the assessment was to generate energy saving opportunities based on industry best practices, with paybacks of fewer than five years. The client also wanted to use the results from the assessment as a benchmark for its other U.S. plants.

As part of the assessment, SSOE interviewed plant personnel, collected utility and equipment information, and conducted field observations. The team examined all major sources of energy generation and use. SSOE assessed system performance, condition, and operational maintenance practices.

A unique challenge of the project was that all field observations had to be complete before a scheduled plant shutdown, leaving SSOE with a short amount of time to examine the 150 acre facility. SSOE moved quickly and worked closely with the client to meet this aggressive schedule. The field work, assessment, and report generation were completed in less than six weeks.

SSOE’s final deliverable was a detailed report consisting of more than 30 energy saving opportunities, along with their estimated cost and payback. This report was reviewed with Corporate Energy Management for concurrence.

May 31, 2018/in Chemical Architecture, Engineering, Master Planning, Sustainable Design Midwest U.S., U.S. Markets - Energy / Power, Services - Master Planning /by david

When a long-established chemical client needed master planning assistance for a new solar product manufacturing facility, they called on SSOE as their trusted engineering partner. SSOE established interface points between the plant and site services and developed an overall master site plan.

Coordinating with city officials, intersection, and traffic patterns were updated to improve access to the site. These updates were then incorporated into the master plan. To improve site safety and security, a loop road design separating employee access from truck access was implemented. A design was also developed for site drainage, collection, and waste treatment. Service water and fire water loop tie-ins and completion were also included. Site based utilities (steam, water, process water, and compressed air) were integrated into project needs, by the SSOE team.

SSOE provided the design for a guard house, integrating products manufactured by the client into the aesthetics. The energy-efficient design included high sound isolation from the adjacent plant. Architectural security fences, turnstiles, and truck security gates were also included. Client-specific standards for security layers and boundaries for truck and employee plant access were supported in SSOE’s design. Electrical power distribution for the guard house incorporated the client’s manufactured solar power system. A sidewalk snow melt design was developed, including all power and control equipment. The guard house lighting design incorporated client-specific light levels. Client-specific requirements for perimeter security, loop road, parking, and truck inspection gates were integrated into the overall site lighting design.

May 31, 2018/in Automotive Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S., U.S. /by david

EPAct 2005 building related energy standards with 50% annual energy reduction.

When BMW needed additional production capacity at its most utilized campus in Spartanburg, South Carolina, they needed a firm known for their expertise in automotive facility design. Having completed a previous energy study for the automotive manufacturer and with recognized capabilities, SSOE was secured for the project. The expansion allowed BMW to increase their output from 160,000 to 240,000 automobiles annually.

SSOE provided the detailed architectural design as well as civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and fire protection engineering services for the assembly plant built on an existing BMW site. With a multi-discipline team in place, SSOE’s scope for the new facility included design for parking areas, a central energy plant, conveyor enclosures, and all utilities required for the plant. Working against a compressed construction schedule, a comprehensive planning process allowed SSOE to meet an aggressive four-month design schedule. The results were plans for an energy efficient building, designed for future expandability.

SSOE also had to consider site challenges, including the property size, proximity to private residences, and mitigation of streams flowing across the corner of the property. The building’s design meets the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct 2005) standards for “Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings” and includes increases in insulation in the walls and roof, efficient lighting systems, high efficiency heating and cooling systems, and high efficiency hot water systems. The result is projected to produce a 50% total energy savings over the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommended standards.

May 31, 2018/in Automotive Architecture, Engineering, Master Planning, Sustainable Design International /by david

Energy saving features with less than five year ROI.

To meet the market demand for new products in China, this automotive OEM built its first Chinese R&D facility in Guangzhou. SSOE’s relationship with this client extends more than 30 years and includes experience at no less than 10 of their facilities throughout the world. With robust expertise in R&D facilities and knowledge of China’s governmental standards for design and construction, SSOE was a clear choice for this project.

SSOE was selected to design an R&D facility that consolidated multiple facilities throughout Guangzhou, bringing the team together in a new location to foster more efficient internal collaboration. R&D areas included trial manufacturing, materials testing, body testing, aesthetic design, crash testing, and EMC chambers. Individual buildings were connected with access roadways separate from normal vehicle flow. The main site access was limited to one entry point in order to control entrance to the campus. The most notable design feature was an onsite high-speed test track for new product development. For the client, it was important to also build an onsite recreational facility reflective of its corporate culture. As part of the design process, SSOE interviewed individual client user groups to find out specific functions, demands, and cultural aspects.

The facility was constructed with an emphasis on use of recycled, renewable, and non-polluting materials. Though the campus had large power requirements, SSOE integrated features that provided the highest possible energy efficiency such as water conserving plumbing fixtures and strategies to reuse the power generated from processes, such as the engine dynamometers. A grey water system was incorporated to minimize overall water consumption and was used to provide the most cost effective method of supplying water for the testing processes on the test track. Such systems were designed to provide less than a five year return on the client’s investment.

May 31, 2018/in Automotive Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design International, India /by david

SSOE suggested incorporating high efficiency lighting saving the client approximately $300,000 annually in operation costs. SSOE also suggested using PVC roofing membrane and sandwich panel siding to minimize the installation time.

In order to provide R&D capabilities in India and to better supplement their existing fabrication plant, an automotive client set about to build a new technical center and office complex. Having completed several successful projects for the client’s U.S. facilities, as well as projects for other U.S.-based companies in Asia, SSOE was selected to provide full architecture and engineering for the project.

The center includes performance, structural, environmental, oil flow and lubrication, and metallurgical testing, as well as noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) testing capabilities. SSOE worked closely with an Indian design firm to ensure the center met Indian regulations, while still providing the client with the international appeal that they were trying to achieve.

Comprised of two filled-in quarries with irregular soil makeup, the site posed a unique challenge. Special considerations had to be made in the facility’s structural design, specifically in the areas that house dynamometers and other large equipment. The site also lacked connections to public utilities, so city water storage tanks had to be designed.

The facility is state-of-the-art and places a high priority on features that maximize occupant safety, health, and comfort. As a result, air conditioning and fire protection systems were included in the center’s design, going above and beyond government requirements for R&D facilities.

May 31, 2018/in Healthcare Engineering, Data / Fire / Security (DFS), Sustainable Design Southeast U.S., U.S. /by david

The Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children is a new, 12-story, replacement hospital with a central energy plant. This project is the largest medical facility expansion in the history of the state of Alabama. It is located directly north of the current facility and is bridged to the existing facilities.

The new facility accommodates projected growth in patient volume, anticipated medical technology needs, planned consolidation of pediatric services, and features a family centered design that enhances comfort for patients and families. The hospital houses 332 beds, plus 48 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) bassinets. The new hospital includes larger rooms, a larger emergency department, and two additional general operating rooms. Additionally, two cardiac operating rooms dedicated to pediatric cardiovascular surgery have been relocated to this facility. The new hospital is expected to become LEED® certified, and will become Alabama’s first LEED certified hospital building.

The design features stunning views, including two roofs with native plants. Facing due north, it makes the most of natural lighting, while ensuring the sun never hits the windows on the broad side of the building. Other green features include a coated roof that reduces heat gain from the sun and a central plant that collects 30,000 gallons of water daily from air conditioning vents for other uses, such as irrigation for green spaces.

SSOE served as the associate electrical and data / fire / security (DFS) engineering firm for this project, provided peer design review, provided construction-period services, and designed the fire alarm systems for the entire facility. Some of the systems incorporated are the systems on the connector bridges to the four existing buildings adjacent to the new structure, as well as systems for the new stair tower at the existing hospital.

May 31, 2018/in Higher Education Architecture, Engineering, Data / Fire / Security (DFS), Sustainable Design Midwest U.S., U.S. /by david

75% of the existing building envelope and 50% of interior, non-structural elements were maintained saving the client construction costs.

Savage Arena, located in the heart of the University of Toledo’s main campus, was renovated and expanded to transform the arena into a state-of-the-art facility for student athletes and fans.

The 163,000 SF facility features numerous amenities for student athletes and fans, including a new entry pavilion; the Wall of Champions and Hall of Fame; improved locker, weight, and training room facilities; specialty seating, including 12 suites, 17 loges, and 194 club seats; 13 concession areas with 34 points of sale; and a pro shop selling Rocket apparel.

Keeping with the university’s mission to be a leader in sustainability, the facility is LEED® Gold certified. Other efforts to minimize environmental impact included reducing water consumption by 20% through the use of landscaping materials that require little to no irrigation, installing low-flush toilets, and using certified wood and recycled content materials throughout the facility. Meticulous construction management allowed for more than 50% of construction waste to be diverted or recycled.

This renovation also included the transformation of the existing Savage Arena lower level from racquetball courts to a steam generating facility for the entire campus, requiring installation of a 90-foot tall stack in a 25-foot deep areaway.

May 31, 2018/in Higher Education Architecture, Engineering, Data / Fire / Security (DFS), Sustainable Design, Interior Design Midwest U.S., U.S. /by david

Rightsizing the overall square footage of the building, plus a lean delivery method, resulted in savings of approximately $900,000 in contingencies.

SSOE was selected to assist Bowling Green State University and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office / Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) for the design of a new 28,330 SF structure to house BCI’s regional offices, operations, and criminal labs in Northwest Ohio.

Included in the scope of the project was the design of administration and investigation offices, firing range, forensic labs, evidence storage space, public access seminar and conference rooms, security and surveillance, A/V design, redundant electrical and HVAC systems, site amenities, and parking. MWL Design Group teamed with SSOE for this project, providing the forensic design expertise essential for BCI operations and activities.

SSOE was able to provide all design services in-house, with a single point of contact for the client. Services provided include: architectural, interior design, structural, landscape architecture, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design. Additionally, SSOE provided specialty design services that included: access control, IT / technology, A/V, and security. Lean project delivery principles were also utilized throughout the process, including collaboration with the construction manager from the onset of the project. The project was completed on schedule, below budget, and earned LEED® Silver Certification.

May 31, 2018/in Automotive Sustainable Design Southeast U.S., U.S. /by david

In addition to architecture, engineering, and construction management services for this new production facility, SSOE also performed a full-spectrum renewable energy survey to determine the most suitable and cost effective technology to utilize to meet Volkswagen’s energy production and system integration requirements.

The survey included all available renewable energy technologies such as solar electric, solar thermal / cooling, wind, biomass, and landfill gas to meet a 4 million kWh renewable energy production target. The study aimed at developing the most effective renewable energy systems to meet Volkswagen’s sustainability and economic objectives for the campus on a 1,500 acre site. A preliminary design of a 3 MW photovoltaic system and a 2 MW landfill gas generating system resulted from the study.

The photovoltaic segment of the project included a full technology comparison of ground based and building-integrated systems, multiple module technologies, and tracking system evaluations. This project resulted in preliminary design of an 800 kW and 3 MW building integrated photovoltaic system which included a CSI master specification-based bid package.

May 31, 2018/in Energy / Power Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Western U.S. Markets - Energy / Power /by david

Reduced engineering schedule by 30%, saving GLE $60,000 a day.

Glacial Lakes Energy (GLE), a manufacturer of corn-based ethanol, underwent a capacity increase to more than double their existing capability. SSOE provided full engineering, design, procurement, fabrication, erection, and commissioning support. We coordinated with GLE, the contractor, and the process provider to successfully complete a fast-track, turnkey project which increased GLE’s existing ethanol production to 100 million gallons per year.

SSOE utilized staff in its Shanghai, China office to provide 24-hour project support, which reduced the engineering schedule by 30% and helped bring the facility to full production capacity in just 11 months. Also, as a result of the accelerated schedule, the client recognized a sizable profit. GLE saved $60,000 per day, which equaled approximately $1.8 million in profit per month.

May 15, 2018/in Automotive Program / Project Management, Architecture, Engineering, Data / Fire / Security (DFS), Sustainable Design Southeast U.S., U.S. /by raincastle

Through innovative design concepts, benchmarking common practices, and scheduling, SSOE offered Volkswagen a savings of more than $44 million.

Having successfully performed design work for more than 50% of all greenfield automotive assembly plants built in the United States over the last 10 years, SSOE was well qualified to oversee architecture, engineering, and construction management services for Volkswagen’s new automotive production facility.

Volkswagen was also looking for a firm with a strong sustainability focus who would help the company execute its green initiatives.

Located on an 830-acre brownfield site, the production facility includes conventional steel framed buildings with concrete columns, roof structures with skylights, metal wall panels with windows, and a single-ply membrane roof. The plant has the capacity to produce 150,000 mid-sized vehicles annually. The primary manufacturing operations include weld, paint, and assembly. Other facilities on this site include outbound logistics, an extensive training center, media (utility) center, social hall with cafeteria, technical center, tank farm, recycling center, and fire station. SSOE provided environmental permitting, civil, architectural, structural, mechanical, fire protection, plumbing, electrical, fire alarm, access control, and security system design as well as construction management. SSOE’s expertise led to the first and only LEED^® Platinum automotive assembly plant in the world. SSOE assisted with the preparation, submittal, and multiple agency approvals of the air permit in record time—2 weeks ahead of an aggressive 3-month schedule.

April 8, 2014/in Architecture, Engineering, Sustainable Design Southeast U.S. /by hitch

Central Shopping

The Sweet Auburn Curb Market, originally established in 1918 as an open air shopping center, was established on land cleared by the Great Atlanta Fire of 1917. In 1923, prominent Atlanta Architect A. Ten Eyck Brown designed a fireproof brick and concrete building that quickly became a central shopping center for the local community.

Capital Improvements

In 2011, this historical center was in critical need of capital improvements inside and out. J.M. Wilkerson Construction and SSOE teamed together to successfully complete the 50,000 square foot historical Municipal Market renovation.

Restoration & Upgrades

The scope of work included renovation of public restrooms, repair/replace doors and gates, electrical and mechanical upgrades, lighting retrofit, addition of HVAC units, plumbing upgrades, fencing, redesign of interior seating areas, replacement of damaged glass in windows, exterior lighting restoration of signage and other improvements.

Today the Market continues to operate as a vibrant social and cultural center in the Sweet Auburn District of Atlanta. With retail vendors and restaurants, the Sweet Auburn Curb Market continues to create new shopping experiences and bring together the city’s unique cultures, all while preserving the historic value of this iconic jewel of the city.

April 11, 2008/in Government / Judicial Architecture, Sustainable Design, VDC Southeast U.S. /by hitch

Historic Downtown Renovation

SSOE provided design services for an addition and renovation to the designated historic federal building, located in downtown Atlanta. The project is comprised of administrative office space for the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, which includes the rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of two existing historic buildings adjacent to the Tuttle Courthouse.

Smart Design Solutions

Our services included providing design solutions meeting both the security and circulation needs of the building.

Designed Using Latest Technologies

The project is designed utilizing Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, a 3D design-driven production method. This project is part of the GSA Design Excellence program and achieved LEED Gold certification.