Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University hired Barton Malow as construction manager for their Student Union. This four-story landmark facility is the “Center of Campus Life” and fosters research, collaboration, discovery, and interactive learning. The lower levels include a food court, bookstore, student services, a 900+ multipurpose events center, interactive office space, group study rooms (imagination stations), computer labs, gaming areas, a lounge, exhibit space, Starbucks, an outdoor terrace. The upper levels feature a technology-rich library with social areas, private study rooms, and collaborative workspaces.
Technology and collaboration can amplify great learning development, and the possibilities are endless. The primary goal of the new student union was to ignite interaction, stimulation, and, ultimately, student success. Similarly, Barton Malow leveraged its powerful VDC services to foster a collaborative partnership between the ownership, design, and project delivery teams, including the subcontractor trades.
Collaborating through 3D Coordination
Barton Malow worked closely with the design team to create a 3D model for the interior of the Mori Hosseini Student Union. Once the composite model was generated, it became apparent that the elliptical steel geometries generated approximately 30 regions where duct could not be routed, as well as 10 instances where gravity piping could not be designed. Barton Malow collaborated with the engineers to redesign the HVAC systems so the duct would not intrude on the ceiling height.
During this collaboration, Barton Malow identified other coordination issues with the miscellaneous metals, including instances where the design was not feasible to construct. Despite the challenges that such a unique design brings to the table, we were able to use our positive working relationship with the rest of the team to finish the construction of the student union on time and within budget.
