New Cabell Hall has achieved Gold certification under the LEED for New Construction Rating System with a total of 40 points. The certification supports the University’s goal of leadership in sustainable design.
New Cabell Hall was completed in 1952 and remains the major academic building for the College and Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, with more than 50 classrooms and 390 offices. 2rw Consultants, Inc., participated in the Project Formulation Report to assess the building’s systems and determine the viability and cost of renovating the building in lieu of demolishing and rebuilding it. The study concluded that it was more economical and sustainable to bring the building up to current standards than raze it and build a new facility.
2rw was subsequently contracted to provide MEP engineering and LEED consultation services for the renovation. During the project, all mechanical systems — electrical, plumbing, and ventilation — were updated. Parts of the building remained open during the phased renovation to minimize disruption to classes and office use.
This project created a more aesthetically pleasing environment and provides the modern amenities of central environmental conditioning, proper fresh air ventilation, and efficient illumination and water use, all of which will better support the missions of the University.
2rw’s work for the this renovation project included the design of all new major HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems to achieve the following:
- Increased comfort level for facility occupants, accomplished through new energy-efficient environmental control and ventilation systems.
- Improved indoor air quality with the introduction of fully tempered and treated outside air ventilation.
- An enhanced learning environment created by incorporating new, high-efficiency lighting strategies and modern media upgrades.
