HVAC Engineering & Low Carbon Design
Alworth, Lonsdale and Medical Arts buildings
Exergy was appointed by Oneida Realty to undertake a low carbon design project in order to define innovative solutions, which could significantly improve the buildings’ performance and decrease the operational costs
Located in the heart of the central business district of Duluth Minnesota, the Alworth Building – built in May 1910 – is the tallest building in the city. The Lonsdale Building was originally a five-story building, but three additional stories were added in 1906 as part of an extension project. Later in the 20th century – the Medical Arts Building, considered an Art Deco masterpiece, was built close by. In all cases, the ageing nature of technology and materials in the buildings led to relatively high operational costs and prompted an investigation into possible improvements.
Service Provided
Exergy undertook a full assessment of the site, the existing building systems and the microclimate. By utilising a suite of energy modelling and simulation tools, a large set of energy measures were tested. Various options for building improvement were analysed from both a financial and environmental perspective. Conceptual mechanical engineering drawings of the proposed HVAC systems, controls matrix, cost estimates and a construction plan were elaborated at the end of the conceptual design phase.
Challenge
High-rise commercial buildings encompass complex dynamics of multiple mechanical, electrical and control systems. Within the given project timeframe, Exergy team successfully analysed how all existing and proposed new building systems work together to achieve greater energy efficiency, maximum performance and improved durability.
Outcome
Final designs and assessment results along with a business case were presented to Oneida. Some of the proposed solutions include:
KPIs
The proposed design established cost and environmental improvements of implementation:
Interested in this project or want to find out more?
Gozde Unkaya
R&D Engineer
Architecture and Sustainable Design