Maximizing Outputs
Illegal Pete's
We helped restore several bays of an old building near the University of Denver. The project illustrated the interrelated nature of mechanical and electrical systems. The electrical service was marginal at best, and did not allow for conventional air conditioning. Our approach used more expensive evaporatively cooled, gas heat rooftop units, resulting in lower first costs and lower operating costs. Our success illustrated the importance of integrated mechanical and electrical systems. View the full
case study.
eTown
This is a mixed use facility which has a nationally broadcast weekly radio show. The project included a small theatre, sound studios, gathering spaces and offices. This is a state-of-the-art green building using solar collectors, variable refrigerant flow heating and cooling and energy recovery ventilation. Included in the challenges was strict sound mitigation equipment for the HVAC system.
Broadway Building
We are particularly proud of our work on this 100-year-old, 5-story building in the heart of downtown Boulder. Asked to help size ducts to fit above a new 2x4 grid ceiling in the historical portion of the building, we challenged this approach. Noticing an underused heat pump system in an adjacent portion of the building, we were able to modify and extend that piping-based system, keep the high historic ceilings and maintain the integrity of this classic building. We then noticed that the old heat pump system was piped backwards, further increasing the systems capabilities with significant energy savings.
Haagen-Daz, Flatirons
We helped a vendor in a shopping mall who was concerned and confused about his high electrical bills. We reviewed the electrical bills and concluded that the mall owner had been overcharging our client. Our argument and documentation resulted in significantly reduced energy charges.
Vogue Theatre
This old theatre in Denver had extremely high heating bills, yet was uncomfortably cold. A quick analysis showed that the air handler was oversized,and the air stratified. I had the return grilles moved to the floor from the ceiling, and adjusted the leaving air temperature from 155° F to 105° F. Although this was a very simple design task and involved few construction costs, the results were immediate and dramatic. Energy costs decreased by more than five percent and comfort was attained.
Wheeler Opera House, Aspen, CO
This historic four-story stone structure built in 1889 lies in the center of downtown Aspen. A relic of the silver mining era this building has been lovingly maintained for more than a century. We have been involved in several studies for its expansion and continuation, and are currently involved in designs which maintain its important place in the town's future.
Wolff Theatre Expansion/Renovation Jewish Community Center, Denver
This 15,000 sf renovation included the addition of a mezzanine, additional offices and extensive renovation of the existing theatre. Among the challenges were the complete replacement of the HVAC system, and a redesign of a groundwater pumping system. The theatre is surrounded by other portions of the center which had to remain operational during construction.
