Morris Marine Laboratory Renovations
Cambridge, MD
As prime consultant, BKM is the project lead for a multi-phase renovation of the 27,500-square-foot Morris Marine Lab. As part of Phase 1, the administrative spaces were upgraded and a comprehensive study was performed to identify systemic MEP and architectural upgrades required to serve a revised laboratory program. For funding purposes, the study provided multiple phases of renovation that allowed the MEP infrastructure to be replaced as part of Phase 2 followed by several additional renovations to modify and upgrade the building’s layout to efficiently serve UMCES’s current mission.
Phase 2 included the complete replacement of MEP systems (chiller, pumps, piping, ATC, electrical service entrance, generator, RO/DI system, etc.) as well as the reprogramming of 4,000 SF of wet lab. Due to the building being available for multiple principal investigators (PIs) and changing lab functions, the renovation included laboratory layouts with differing sizes and configurations to accommodate each lab’s functional needs. New air handling systems were provided along with exhaust systems to serve fume hoods in each lab and general exhaust requirements. A runaround heat recovery system also for heat energy in the exhaust systems to be transferred to the make-up air introduced to the labs. A runaround heat recovery system was also provided for energy recovery between the exhaust and make-up air systems serving the labs.
A centrally located equipment room houses lab equipment (incubators, chest freezers, and similar equipment) to offer each lab additional space for its specialized equipment needs. Environmental chambers were also included.
The existing normal and emergency power distribution system was replaced with a new normal power switchboard, emergency generator, automatic transfer switches for life safety, and optional branches of emergency power distribution systems, as well as a manual transfer switch to support the existing pump house. The new power distribution equipment feeds step-down transformers and branch circuit panelboards to support new HVAC equipment and lighting power throughout the renovated spaces. A new UPS was provided to support selected receptacles in the labs, meeting room, and telecommunication equipment. New LED lighting with digital control was provided in the renovated spaces.
