Case Study: Government

Theodore Levin Courthouse

We were invited to participate in an integrated project delivery (IPD) and GMP, alongside EYP and The Christman Company to update the Theodore Levin Courthouse in Detroit. The Government Services Administration sought to upgrade the building to be more energy efficient, but because the courthouse had been built in 1934 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2018, the updates and approach had to fit a specific set of guidelines to preserve its original character.

Project Size$9.2

Square Feet771,904

LocationDetroit, MI

PartnerChristman

Contract TypeDesign Assist

ArchitectEYP

ClientGSA

Challenge

To maintain the historical integrity and architectural relevance of the courthouse, we needed to design and install a modern HVAC system with care to fit within specific parameters. At the time of its original construction in 1934, the building design didn’t include air conditioning systems, and like many older buildings, we had to navigate challenging ceiling heights and mechanical space limitations.

Solution

To meet the rigorous standards for historic building renovations, we drew inspiration from other U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and GSA projects. We selected equipment based on efficiency and acceptable redundancy standards, keeping in mind the limited space to maneuver within the building itself.

We were able to draw on decades of experience in mechanical contracting to think creatively about the challenges we faced within the constraints of the space. With an exceptional amount of team coordination, we created detailed and deliberate plans for how to execute the project, including how to approach our critical lift and rigging to create the least amount of disruption.

Process

We used digital scanning and BIM to plan our design within existing space constraints with the highest degree of accuracy. The system featured a creative radial loop duct design that incorporated redundancies to ensure duplicate structural elements and failsafes to keep it operating smoothly through any future issues.

Results

Using our own knowledge of design techniques common in historic buildings, we installed a state-of-the-art system behind the courthouse walls that paid significant attention to aesthetics to blend seamlessly into the existing architecture. In addition, due to our efficient design and identifying cost-savings based on our in-depth knowledge of the standards, the project cost was significantly reduced, allowing for the project scope to expand in size.