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University of Virginia Physics

Location

Charlottesville, VA

 

General Contractor

Jamerson-Lewis Construction

 

Size

107,000 sq. ft.

 

 
Photo Credit | X

Scope

Our team completed an extensive renovation project for the UVA Physics Building, a 107,000-square-foot facility serving as a vital hub for classrooms, labs, and research spaces. The renovation aimed to modernize the building’s systems and bring the labs up to date with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring reliable functionality for the university’s expanding research and teaching needs. The building, which consists of four main floors plus a partially converted attic space, required a phased renovation approach due to its active use throughout the project.

Flexible Power Solutions with Bus Duct

One unique aspect of the renovation was the installation of bus ducts throughout the labs. These bus ducts, which run through the ceilings in straight, T, or L configurations, allow for flexible power connections. This setup is critical for UVA’s high-tech lab equipment, enabling the university to easily move or reconfigure equipment as research needs evolve. With plug-in units for varied amperage and connection types, the bus ducts give the building’s electrical system flexibility and adaptability.

Managing Active Phases and System Integration

The renovation included significant challenges with phasing, as each phase required portions of the building to remain operational. Systems like lighting and fire alarms needed to be functional at nearly full capacity for occupied areas, even as we worked to extend and integrate these new systems with existing infrastructure. Our team, alongside Hudson Payne for fire alarm integration, skillfully managed this complex interplay, ensuring safety and functionality during each transition.

Project Completion and Final Transformation

By the project’s end, we transformed the UVA Physics Building into a fully modernized facility. Our team’s dedication to phased logistics and adaptive problem-solving allowed us to meet UVA’s high standards, resulting in a safe, efficient, and future-ready space for cutting-edge scientific exploration.

Phased Approach and Project Expansion

Initially, the project was planned in three phases, but complexities in scope led to additional phases, breaking Phase 1 into 1A and 1B. This adjustment allowed us to address unforeseen challenges and ensure comprehensive updates were made in every section. The scope included a complete remodel of the electrical service, installation of a new generator, and extensive upgrades to the power infrastructure. Essentially, the entire building was overhauled electrically, with new systems to support the cutting-edge needs of UVA's labs.

Advanced Lighting and Sustainability Integration

For lighting, we integrated advanced controls from Acuity, including daylight harvesting, dimming, and occupancy sensors, to enhance energy efficiency. The building achieved LEED certification, aligning with UVA’s sustainability goals. In line with the high-tech overhaul, all lighting controls and sensors were calibrated to provide optimal light management across classrooms, labs, and common areas.

Overcoming Power Distribution Challenges

Another logistical challenge involved updating the building’s power distribution while keeping essential services uninterrupted. We tackled this by carefully intercepting and rerouting branch circuits from older panels. Temporary power feeds were strategically installed to support ongoing activities as we replaced main panels and overhauled circuits floor by floor. This required precise coordination and on-the-spot problem-solving by our superintendent to maintain service continuity while progressing with the renovation.

University of Virginia Edgar Shannon Library

Location

Charlottesville, VA

 

General Contractor

Skanska

 

Size

223,000 sq. ft.

 

 
Photo Credit | X

Scope

Design Electric Inc. played a pivotal role in the complete renovation of UVA’s Shannon Library. Our responsibilities encompassed the installation of all power and lighting systems, battery banks for emergency power inverters, and advanced lighting controls. Additionally, we managed the medium voltage scope, including the duct banks for site work, connecting and extending the existing duct bank. Our specific duties focused on cabling and terminations, with an excavation contractor assisting in creating the duct bank, raceway, and manholes.

Unique Installation

A key challenge was the courtyard area, featuring a large skylight. We installed lighting on the skylight before it was erected, coordinating the process to ensure all cabling remained hidden. The setup included 12-16 small canister spotlights and perimeter lighting, creating an indoor space with an outdoor feel. The distinction between the new addition and the original structure is marked by the beautiful woodwork in the old section.

Communication

Our deep understanding of the electrical scope enabled clear communication with project stakeholders, especially when adapting to changes in the project flow. This proactive approach helped save costs and improve overall efficiency.

Technology

To accommodate evolving project needs, we equipped our team with an "office in a box," providing real-time access to project drawings on a large flat-screen TV, along with consistent Wi-Fi and printer access. iPads enabled our team to navigate the job site with live drawings and email, enhancing communication and cohesion. The use of a Trimble unit further increased efficiency by allowing precise layout work, reducing the time spent measuring.

Historical Preservation and Lighting

The project included the careful refurbishment of historical lighting fixtures. UVA employed a lighting designer to inventory and photograph the fixtures, working closely with a specialist for the actual refurbishment. Notable pieces, such as the wagon wheel fixtures in Memorial Hall, were either restored or newly created from prototypes, blending historic and new elements. We also installed floor boxes and specialty lighting, including sensor-activated bookcase lights, ensuring discreet installation.

Safety

Throughout the project, we maintained a strong safety record, with over 107,300 hours worked without incidents. Prefabricating conduit racks in our warehouse allowed for assembly in a controlled environment, reducing time spent on ladders and lifts and minimizing safety risks.

Schedule

The project faced a significant challenge when bedrock was encountered at the new addition site, causing an eight-month delay. Despite this, we met the construction schedule by adjusting manpower as needed. Our Superintendents played a key role in managing the workforce, ensuring the right crew size was maintained throughout the project to avoid early exhaustion of resources.

Innovation

Innovative techniques allowed us to maximize efficiency. We prefabricated a significant portion of the conduit racks in 10’ sections, using a gripple system that enabled a single team member to install entire racks. These sections were strategically labeled and delivered to the site, streamlining the installation process and allowing for a smaller crew size.

Mentorship

We are committed to fostering the next generation of skilled workers. Our Mentorship Director ensured apprentices were paired with experienced mentors and exposed to a variety of tasks. On this project, we also provided specialized training on Spool Drawings, essential for accurate installations and minimizing material waste. This commitment to mentorship helps us maintain our legacy of project excellence.

University of Virginia McCormick Road Dorms

Location

Charlottesville, VA

 

General Contractor

Barton Mallow

 

Size

300,000 sq. ft.

 

 

Overview

Design Electric supported the comprehensive electrical renovation of the University of Virginia's McCormick Road Dorms. This extensive project, which aimed to rejuvenate the aging student housing facilities, involved a complete overhaul of the electrical systems across eight residential buildings, power lighting installations, and the integration of a generator. 

Goals

The primary objective for UVA was to create a modernized and engaging housing environment that would attract exceptional students and enhance their overall university experience. The original dorm buildings, dating back to the 1950s, had undergone previous renovations but required a complete update to meet contemporary standards and expectations for first-year housing.

Staying on Schedule

A key factor behind DEI’s ability to stay on schedule was their robust resource management. Despite industry-wide workforce challenges, DEI successfully provided the skilled labor required. The company’s proactive stance, rather than reactive problem-solving, helped mitigate emergencies and streamline project phases.

Leveraging Technology

Technological advancements were pivotal in boosting DEI's efficiency. This project was one of the first where DEI utilized electronic tablets, moving from printed drawings to digital versions. This change enabled real-time updates and minimized the risk of expensive rework due to outdated plans. The application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) was especially advantageous for managing the tight ceiling spaces in the dorm corridors, ensuring precise coordination between trades. Additionally, a custom-built software program was used to streamline material ordering and tracking. This efficiency ensured that materials were always available when needed, preventing delays, and enhancing overall project productivity.

Project Scope

The McCormick Road Dorms renovation was a significant undertaking.  DEI was responsible for the electrical work in six residential buildings, which contain eight university residences or houses. This project included a comprehensive electrical upgrade across 400,000 square feet of residential space, accommodating 1,400 students. Additionally, the scope extended to the Castle, a café within the dorm complex.  The renovation required extensive sitework, including deep duct bank installations around substantial existing utilities. This demanded meticulous planning and execution to navigate the complex underground environment, ensuring safety and stability.  Executed as a Design Assist venture, Design Electric was involved from the initial stages, offering valuable input on pricing and design iterations.

Project Outcomes

Design Electric Inc. significantly contributed to the renovation's success through proactive planning and strict adherence to schedules. This approach minimized the risk of delays and cost overruns, ensuring high owner satisfaction. The company’s field superintendents meticulously planned work weeks in advance, ensuring crews were well-prepared and equipped with necessary materials ahead of time. Such foresight and organization were crucial in maintaining productivity and efficiency, thereby avoiding the need for additional workforce due to inefficiencies.

Safety

Design Electric's team successfully completed approximately 96,000 work hours without a single safety incident.

University of Virginia Hospital Expansion

Location

Charlottesville, VA

 

General Contractor

Skanska

 

Size

83,244 sq. ft.

 

 

Project Scope

The UVA Hospital Expansion involved the renovation of 90,000 square feet on multiple levels of the existing hospital to support the new six story inpatient tower construction. This complex project was divided into 27 phases, each requiring precise coordination and execution within a live hospital environment.

Outcomes

Design Electric Inc. played a crucial role in the successful completion of the UVA Hospital Expansion. Leveraging our extensive knowledge and expertise of the hospital’s systems, we navigated the intricate phasing and coordination required for the project. The team’s meticulous planning and execution ensured that each of the 27 phases was completed without causing disruptions to the hospital's operations. Our ability to work around existing circuits and vital spaces without causing shutdowns was instrumental in maintaining the hospital’s functionality throughout the renovation.

Leveraging Technology

Technological advancements were pivotal in enhancing our efficiency on this project. The team used tablets for all electronic drawings, eliminating the need for printed plans and enabling real-time updates. Mobile offices equipped with a big screen TV, Wi-Fi, and a printer facilitated on-site collaboration and planning. We also employed a material requisition tool to ensure timely availability of materials, preventing delays.

Goals

The primary goal of this project was to integrate the new inpatient tower with the existing hospital infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted patient care during the transition. The renovation aimed to upgrade the facilities to meet contemporary standards while maintaining full operational capacity of critical areas such as operating rooms and patient care units.

Staying on Schedule

Our established processes, including detailed look-ahead scheduling and crew size management, were key to staying on schedule. The project required overlapping phases, where some phases were closing out while others were starting up. This dynamic approach, akin to managing 27 interconnected projects, ensured continuous progress. The superintendent’s ability to maintain team morale and efficient crew sizes in tight working spaces was essential to meeting deadlines and delivering the project under budget and ahead of schedule.

Safety

Because safety is a core value at Design Electric, the entire team underwent Infection Control Risk Assessment training to protect themselves and others in the hospital environment. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic introduced additional safety challenges, which the team navigated with strict adherence to enhanced safety protocols. Despite the complexities and risks, the team completed 78,000 work hours with zero safety incidents, underscoring our commitment to safety and excellence in healthcare environments.

University of Virginia Data Science

Location

Charlottesville, VA

 

General Contractor

Gilbane

 

Size

60261 sq. st.

 

 
Photo Credit | Tyler Smith, PM Design Electric Inc. 
Note | SoSo Limited & Hypersonic designed and installed the Data Sculpture

Overview

The University of Virginia’s School of Data Science constructed a dedicated building for the University’s newly formed school. This ground-up project featured 4 floors + MEP Penthouse of space for classrooms, offices, working areas, and gathering spaces for students and educators. Items of interest include: Capital One HUB featuring a 2-story video screen, Custom “Data Sculpture” in 2-story atrium, Open Hardware Lab for student research, Custom lighting package for interior and exterior lighting, Exterior patio and stepped pond with custom accent lighting, Smoke exhaust fan system integrated with FA package, ~500 LF feed generator tie-in under formed creek.

Goals

The purpose of the building is to provide a collaborative space for new UVA Data Science students to work and learn. The design team’s motto for the project was “A school without walls” as envisioned by the director of the Data Science Institute Phil Bourne. The building is to be open for all UVA students and community alike. With students enrolled in summer courses, the overall project goal was to have the building ready and accessible for the public for summer sessions.

Project Scope

Design held the electrical and fire alarm package for the building, including office space for 100+ staff, conference spaces, student work areas, classroom space for 340 students, collaboration areas, and other areas supporting the facility. The scope also included integration of an existing generator with (3) ATS devices and a robust smoke exhaust system. Completion of the building for summer students required coordination and creativity from the field team to achieve the desired goals. Design’s input was critical to achieving a complete system on the timeline requested.

Project Outcomes

Getting the School of Data science building constructed on the project timeline to achieve an open building for the public required significant planning and manpower. Design was able to achieve scheduled completion through planning of prioritized items to maintain critical path. Combining the assistance on design process, resource planning, and a robust working crew, Design was able to move past significant barriers that threatened the project schedule. DEI’s resource capacity allowed us to be successful with critical path completion.

University of Virginia Chemistry & Gilmer

Location

Charlottesville, VA

 

General Contractor

Whiting Turner

 

Size

175,376 sq. ft.

 

 

Overview

Design Electric undertook a comprehensive service upgrade for the Chemistry and Gilmer Hall buildings, spanning six years. This project involved upgrading the electrical systems across both buildings—each with four floors and a top-floor mechanical room. The challenge was to ensure that the buildings remained fully operational while integrating the new electrical services. Careful planning and precise execution were crucial, as the buildings were fully occupied, and only specific sections could be handed over for upgrades at a time. The project focused on modernizing the electrical systems in the laboratories, aligning them with the latest research requirements.

Quality Control

Design Electric’s quality control manager played a pivotal role in ensuring the accuracy of the work. He meticulously double-checked drawings, particularly for the complex lighting systems and controls. His attention to detail ensured that everything functioned correctly before the lighting controls representative was brought on-site.

Project Scheduling

Thorough planning and detailed scheduling were essential to the project’s success. The team had to carefully map out each phase of the work, ensuring that every step was well-thought-out and executed without impacting the building’s operations.

Project Goals

The primary objective was to bring the electrical services and laboratories up to the latest standards, supporting cutting-edge research and allowing for future growth. Working in a live environment posed unique challenges, requiring Design Electric to anticipate and address unforeseen issues while maintaining the building’s operational integrity.

Collaboration

The key goals were to complete the project on time and within budget. Design Electric’s commitment to collaboration ensured a successful partnership, underpinned by a strong working relationship.

Safety Protocols

Safety was crucial, particularly because the building needed to remain fully operational. Working on live electrical systems required meticulous scheduling and coordination with the University, especially during ongoing classes or critical experiments that could not be disrupted.

Martha Jefferson Hospital

Location

Charlottesville, VA

 

General Contractor

M.A. Mortenson Company

 

Size

514,356 sq. ft.

Contract: $34,542,000

Scope

The new replacement community hospital campus, recognized as the #1 most beautiful hospital in the U.S. by Soliant Health, spans 520,000 square feet and includes 176 private patient beds across five stories. The facility features 6,048 square feet with two procedure rooms dedicated to Cardiac Care, as well as 11,640 square feet of specialized CATH/VIR areas, which include two CATH rooms and three VIR rooms. The hospital is equipped with advanced data storage and processing infrastructure, enabling the transition to electronic medical records. A robust 10,000-amp electrical service, supported by three 7,500 kW generators, ensures reliable power. The project scope expanded with the addition of a Cancer Treatment Center, a Parking Garage, and multiple custom fit-outs.

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