Kearns Building

The Kearns Building project was a complete remodel of the plumbing, chilled, heating and HVAC systems in the Kearns Building, built in 1911.

The remodel of the Kearns Building was done in 2 phases. First, the plumbing was removed from floors 2-10 on the west side, keeping the east side restrooms in operation. Phase 1 also consisted of removing the existing chilled water system and associated equipment and installing new duct work on the west wings and future restrooms.

Phase 2 consisted of removing the east plumbing and associated fixtures. Phase 2 also included the removal of the existing steam boilers and steam piping to the sub-basement. Additional duct work was also added during phase 2 on the east wing.

A challenge during construction was maintaining fully operational plumbing and HVAC systems as the building was occupied by tenants. Harris implemented early morning shutdowns and tie-in of new systems before the tenants would arrive for the day. Another challenge was the penthouse mechanical equipment required access through a 6×6 window, as the owner did not want to cut a hole in the exterior of the historic building. Harris had all penthouse equipment delivered and staged off site for a coordinated lifting day. The new carrier chiller was disassembled into 6 pieces in order to fit through the window. Other equipment consisted of 3 AERCO boilers, 8 hydronic pumps and an inertia bases erv unit.