St. Olaf College Regents Hall
Harris worked extensively with stakeholders and St. Olaf College to design and install a new, sustainable science center. Much of the piping, duct systems and fixture assemblies for the 180,000-square foot building were prefabricated in Harris’ fabrication shop, allowing our company to comply with LEED certification requirements, complete work ahead of schedule and reduce time in the field.
To adhere to LEED certification requirements, Harris used low-VOC emitting adhesives and sealants for duct and pipe connections. A heat recovery system using the exhaust from lab hoods preheats the water for the air handling equipment. A cistern captures rainwater to be used for irrigation for the greenhouse. Low-flow flush valves on bathroom fixtures and energy monitoring devices help reduce energy usage. The Harris team worked four-day weeks to cut down on fuel use.
Harris also incorporated value engineering ideas to reduce costs. Our company used ProPress copper in place of soldered fittings, combined several air handling units into one, installed PVC underground waste piping in place of cast iron pipe, and used grooved end piping on heating and cooling in place of welded connections.
The facility was awarded LEED Platinum certification.