10 Inspiring Projects in 2023 | USA

What was the challenge? Providing low-voltage and communications systems engineering for the $1.7 billion Next NGA West construction project in St. Louis, ensuring a cutting-edge and adaptable facility for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA)’s evolving mission.

How did we meet it? By integrating a robust information technology infrastructure, including wireless solutions and an open IT architecture. The sheer scale of the project —featuring a 97-acre campus with a 700,000-square-foot office building, two parking garages, and multiple secure facilities — required meticulous planning. Using an estimated 5,500 miles of fiber optic cable and 33,000 fiber strands, our team ensured seamless connectivity for the 3,150-strong staff. The result is a modern, flexible, collaborative facility poised to support NGA’s evolving geospatial intelligence mission for the next century, emphasizing innovation, advanced technology solutions, and sustainability.

Learn more about the Next NGA West project. 

What was the challenge? Retrofitting the 1923-era Jesse Unruh building in Sacramento into a LEED Gold, Net Zero Energy operation requiring an evaluation of HVAC systems for an all-electric, fully decarbonized solution.

How did we meet it? Our team evaluated alternative HVAC systems to find the best option for our client. Ultimately, we recommended the use of floor-by-floor Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS) with energy recovery, a decoupled localized heating and cooling system, and a connection to the owner’s district chilled water system. This approach achieved a sustainable solution for an historic renovation.

Learn more about the Jesse Unruh project.

What was the challenge? To rehabilitate and restore the late Victorian Texas White House, a National Historic Place, while strictly maintaining its integrity and vintage aesthetics.

How did we meet it? Our team seamlessly blended modern design with historical significance. This project showcases our commitment to marrying the past with the present, leaving an indelible mark on the Lyndon B. Johnson legacy. From design development to overseeing construction documents, bidding, and administration, we kept heritage preservation at the heart of the project.  

Learn more about the Lyndon B. Johnson Historic Park project.

What was the challenge? Designing for the large central atrium, coordinating extensive site utility work with the adjacent hospital construction, and achieving LEED Gold certification for the center. 

How did we meet it? We implemented advanced smoke modeling and designed an efficient smoke exhaust system for the central atrium. Coordination with IU Health ensured smooth site utility integration. We integrated sustainable components, such as active chilled beams, for LEED Gold certification, showcasing our expertise in complex mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection engineering for the medical facility. The result is a cutting-edge facility that meets the highest standards in medical education while prioritizing sustainability and functionality.

Learn more about Indiana University’s New Academic Health Research Center. 

What was the challenge? To design and engineer a cutting-edge, sustainable facility aiming for LEED Zero Energy certification by incorporating various energy-efficient measures while maintaining cost-effectiveness.

How did we meet it? Our team provided mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering, design analytics services, and sustainability consulting, implementing an all-electric design that saved $1 million in construction costs. Our team’s use of thermodynamically zoned heat pumps, electro-chromic glazed glass, photovoltaic panels, optimized building orientation, and water conservation measures contributed to achieving LEED Platinum, LEED Zero Energy, and Net Zero Energy certifications. This showcased our holistic and cost-efficient approach to sustainable design. By collaborating closely with the contractor team during the design phase, we ensured streamlined construction, eliminating the need for shop drawings and value engineering, which further expedited the project.

Learn more about the Kaiser Permanente – Santa Rosa Medical Office Building project.

What was the challenge? Providing project management services and a new baggage system during the Terminal 8 expansion project, which is American Airlines' busiest terminal in the New York area, handling numerous long-haul and transcontinental flights.

How did we meet it? Actively engaging with partners, such as Siemens and Brock Solutions, we addressed RFIs, managed submittals, and resolved clashes. We were key in preparing submittal packages, managing document control, and ensuring compliance. Teaming up with partners, our expertise significantly contributed to overcoming challenges and successfully executing the three-year program, showcasing our commitment to excellence in program management for JFK's expansion.

Learn more about the John F. Kennedy International Airport project.

What is the challenge? Providing architectural and engineering design services to assess and compare two potential sites for an Engineering and Applied Sciences building while developing a detailed program aligned with the project vision and mission.

How will we meet it? We will establish a recommended scope, building program, concept design, and project schedule for a proposed construction budget of approximately $90,000,000. Every detail, from humming AV systems to carefully curated room layouts, signifies our dedication to creating a transformative legacy where academia converges with the future, and sustainability meets innovation.

Learn more about the University of Missouri’s Center of Energy Science project. 

What is the challenge? Providing comprehensive medical equipment planning and procurement services for the WellStar Paulding Tower B Expansion project. Challenges include integrating various expertise, aligning with new service lines, and minimizing patient disruptions during equipment relocation. 

How will we meet it? Anticipating operational impacts, conducting visioning sessions, developing detailed schedules to capture early, major equipment decisions, and using a target value delivery methodology to align equipment budgets with project goals.

Learn more about the WellStar Paulding Hospital project.

What is the challenge? Provide complex integration of Miami Dade Fire Rescue and Miami Dade Police Department functions, enhanced perimeter security upgrades, and ensuring uninterrupted operations at the facility while we help to create a new Integrated Command & Communications Center.

How will we meet it? By implementing advanced security measures, developing a concept of operations, training, efficient systems integration, LEED-certified sustainable design for green building practices, and meeting county standards. 

Learn more about the Lightspeed Facility project.

What is the challenge? Providing project support for the North Terminal Development baggage handling system modification to the inline check baggage inspection system. Upgrading TSA screening equipment requires intricate system changes and complex stakeholder relations management.

How will we meet it? Through meticulous pre-construction project support, including detailed reviews at each design phase, rigorous QAQC, and active participation in design meetings. This approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of the existing system for the client. Benefits include reliable system upgrades, harmonized stakeholder collaboration, and expert construction support that will create a seamless execution phase.

Learn more about the North Terminal Development project.