Zachry Engineering Education Complex

This project included the complete renovation of an existing 300,000 SF building with a 200,000 SF addition. Shah Smith & Associates, Inc. was selected to provide mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design services for this critical component of the Texas A&M University 25 by 25 initiative which includes having 25,000 engineering students enrolled by 2025.

The learning space and teaching labs have completely flexible spaces to allow changes as new technology or teaching methods are developed. The learning studios have movable tables with monitors to promote collaborate learning environments. All laboratories are open type with movable benches and overhead service carriers. The mechanical systems were designed such that fume hoods could be relocated from one area of the building to another with minimal rework and maximum flexibility. The building has an atrium, which required a smoke exhaust system.

The electrical system also included a new electrical service to the building and emergency generator. Learning studios have raised floors to allow for maximum flexibility in routing power circuits. Lighting consists of LED lamps with occupancy sensors for maximum energy savings. Laboratories have specialty gases piped from manifolded tanks located in various spots on each floor.