Lawrinson Hall is a twenty-two (22) story residence hall that sits on a hill above the City of Syracuse adjacent to the Carrier Dome on Syracuse University’s campus. Bell & Spina was asked to design a roof system to withstand the high winds experienced while providing safety fall protection for servicing cameras installed on the building’s corners, which were located outside the existing railing system. A fully-adhered modified bitumen roof system was chosen for its wind resistance, slip resistance, and durability. A narrow balcony circles the penthouse lounge at the 20th floor level. Due to numerous railing penetrations and tight working conditions a liquid membrane was specified in this location.
Welles Hall was constructed in 1932 and its roof system was original to the building. Due to its age and deteriorated condition, and several leaks throughout the roof, cupola and gutter systems, the building was in need of a roof replacement.
All existing lead-coated copper roofing was removed down to the existing decks. A terne-coated stainless steel was selected for its appearance, which is similar to the existing roofing, and its workability in forming the details necessary to replicate the cupola. The original cupola was skinned with the same material as the original roof panels. It was important to have the new cupola match the new roof.
.jpg)
“The Egg”, completed 1978 is part of the Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza in Albany, NY built between 1966 and 1978. This unique building houses two performing arts theaters inside a free-formed concrete base. The 45,000 square foot roof is a complex curve and the roof edge is a tilted rim that conceals a 700 foot long and 3-foot deep built-in gutter and drainage system.
Recognizing historic sensitivities, unique technical challenges and the public presence of this iconic building, Bell & Spina was chosen by the NYS Office of General Services to provide architectural and engineering services to reroof the building.
Western New York Regional Off-Track Betting Corporation retained Bell & Spina to solve ice damming problems at their Phoenix, NY satellite facility.
Removing the ceiling to make corrections was not an option, since the Owner did not want to close the facility for any length of time. The repairs had to be completed from the exterior and this approach meant the thermal envelope originally planned at the ceiling would be moved to the underside of the roof deck, creating a warm attic space condition.
The exterior repairs involved removing the existing asphalt roof shingles and installing continuous underlayment membrane, rigid insulation and a vented insulation board. Follow-up with this project has revealed that ice damming is no longer an issue on the building and utility bills have greatly improved.
The Ithaca Armory was constructed in 1987 and houses offices, firing range and drill hall spaces for the 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Units.
The scope of work included removals, asbestos and PCB abatement, full replacement of the roof system reconstruction of the masonry walls, flashings and replacement of the drill hall clerestory window units. Roof insulation was increased to meet NYS energy codes and unused mechanical equipment was removed and capped with insulated metal covers.
The change orders on this project were -4.3% resulting in a credit to the project for unused field order funds.
The project included five pedestrian bridges on the SUNY Buffalo campus. The bridges were primarily built-up roof with gravel systems which were replaced with new membrane system over a new insulation system. Included in the scope of the work was the addition of ventilation for air exchange, replacement of the non-insulated windows with thermally-broken aluminum windows with insulated glazing and replacement of roof exhausts to promote air flow.
This five-story building with a masonry exterior, a concrete structure, and a sloped concrete roof deck with some small areas of flat concrete totaling approximately 17,972sf. The scope involved the replacement of the existing roof system with a modified bitumen membrane over a new insulation system. The scope of the work also included the replacement of rooftop mechanical equipment except new or recently replaced units.
The project was the replacement of the entire roofing system on the 11-story tower and singe-story classroom structure. Included in the project was hazardous materials abatement, masonry, through-wall flashing, roof access door and ladder replacement. The lower deck was heavily deteriorated, causing active leaks over heavily used classroom spaces. Challenges included keeping a large part of the building operational, and the radio antenna on the 11-story roof required uninterrupted service.
The roof of the two-story connecting section between Casey & Smith Residence Hall Towers had taken a lot of abuse. Considering the roof deck had the structural capacity to support the system, a protected membrane system utilizing a vegetative “green” roofing system was ideal for the situation.
The Williamson Town Complex exhibited severe ice damming and in 2008, the Town of Williamson retained Bell & Spina to investigate the issue.
Our investigation found the cause of the ice to be warm air movement into and through the roof system, especially in the library which had an acoustical deck.
With the roof showing signs of deterioration and leaks appearing in multiple offices within the structure. Bell & Spina recommended a complete roof replacement. The roof system and wall-to-roof interface was redesigned to eliminate the existing thermal shorts, and the eaves were insulated around the entire building.
This project consisted of repair of the building envelope including the roof, masonry repairs, window and door replacement. As one of the early buildings on campus SHPO review was required.
The roof structure was a thin concrete on lath system that would not allow consideration of some systems. A modified bitumen system was selected for its light weight, slip resistance and durability in consideration of the foot traffic required to maintain roof top equipment. All roof top equipment was replaced and access ladders from the penthouse were added.
Park Hall was built in 1986. It is a six-story masonry building with a steel structure and sloped metal roof deck on the majority of the building and a flat metal roof on the uppermost roof area totaling approximately 25,548sf.
The scope included a complete roof replacement of the existing roof system down to the deck with a modified bitumen membrane. A new handrail was added to the uppermost roof area. The project also included the replacement of rooftop mechanical equipment except new or recently replaced units.
The Everson Museum is an architectural and sculptural masterpiece designed in 1968 by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei. Since its construction, however, the museum has been plagued by water infiltration problems.
The original system of the skylights did not take into account structural movement that occurred within the cantilevered galleries as outdoor temperatures fluctuated. The almost zero pitch of the skylights compounded the problem.
The Campus House project included replacement of the original slate roofing, replacement and rehabilitation of the copper gutters, downspouts, wood shutters and storm windows, abatement of hazardous materials and masonry work. A 2nd-level patio space was created by adding a liquid roof membrane and railings and repointing the masonry parapet walls.
*Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places
On the National Register of Historic Places, the Courthouse was built in 1907 in Beaux Arts Style and was in desperate need of restoration.
As the roofing consultant, Bell & Spina’s task was the replacement of the built-up roof system, copper detailing and repair of the masonry elevator towers. Other roles assumed by Bell & Spina were asbestos abatement design, and front end contractual document preparation.
The 621 Skytop Road building is a mutli-use facility that includes noise sensitive and odor sensitive labs and clinics.
The building was occupied during construction. Roof areas were completed in a phased sequence and accelerated to accommodate the tenant use within the building and cause the least amount of disturbance during existing roof removal and new installations.
The existing EPDM roof membrane and rigid insulation were recycled as part of the project. A single-ply KEE roof membrane was chosen based on the minimal amount of rooftop equipment on the building and the relatively low slopes of the existing metal decking. Penthouse roof and roof level transition access ladders were replaced and a new lightning protection system was installed.
Investigations discovered that the underlayment had deteriorated and was allowing water into the attic space. The wooden gutter lining had rotted and needed replacement.
The existing clay tiles were tested and found to have significant life left in the materials. Tile roof system was removed and reinstalled after replacing the underlayments. The original manufacturer supplied the project with specialty pieces and additional field tile as needed.
Copper gutters were completely replaced and rescoped to drain more efficiently and incorporate expansion joints. Heat trace system was installed within the gutter and down each leader to below grade.
The Patrick J. Corbett Justice Center is a 671 bed maximum security facility built in 1995. Sections of the building's ballasted EPDM roof had been crushed over the years by the weight of window washing equipment. The upper roof has multiple levels and barrel vaulted rood sections over the mechanical penthouses. Due to the design of the existing roof, three separate roof replacement systems were designed.
Wind uplift during Hurricane Sandy caused widespread damage to the roof of the 1950’s hangar building at the US Army section of the Niagara Falls International Airport.
Bell & Spina was commissioned to provide the US Corps of Engineers with expedited design and construction administration services for the replacement of the 20,000sf low-slope and vaulted roofs.
The James C. Colgate Student Union sits prominently at the base of the hill leading up to the campus and is a visual icon of the University. It was very important to the University that the roof materials were faithful to the original building but balanced the aesthetic, maintenance and performance requirements. Clay roof shingles and copper flashing and standing seam metal roofing materials were specified to replace the original slate shingles.
Recognition:
RCI., Inc, Document Competition, 1st Place Award Recipient 2016 - Excellence in Large Roofing/Waterproofing Project Documents
The roofs in Administration, Gymnasium and Low Stable roof areas were last replaced in the early 1980’s and were at the end of their useful life. Roof cuts revealed standing water on the vapor barrier and roof deck repairs were necessary due to numerous and prolonged leaks.
Windows and access doors were replaced with new units containing insulted glass and structural divided lites.
Access ladders and light fixtures were also replaced.
Originally constructed between 1949 and 1950, the Onondaga County War Memorial is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the first thin-shelled concrete roof structure built in the United States.
As a sustainable material, the zinc roofing system consists of recycled zinc, which can be recycled indefinitely, without loss of its physical or chemical properties after its useful life. Unlike lead roofing, zinc will not contaminate the ground water.
Recognition:
RCI., Inc, Document Competition, 2nd Place Award Recipient 2015 - Excellence in Large Roofing/Waterproofing Project Documents
Built in 1949, MacDonough Hall is a three story dormitory building, built in the federalist style with classical gable pediments, frieze boards and wood cornices. Many of the ornamental architectural features were original and deteriorated from years of water infiltration and structural sagging. SUNY Plattsburgh and DASNY retained Bell & Spina to replace the defective slate shingles, make structural repairs to the cornices and eaves and improve building thermal performance all while maintaining the historic appearance of slate roofing materials.
Recognition:
RCI Inc. - 2nd Place Award Recipient, 2016 RCI Document Competition - Large Project
2016 AIA New York State Excelsior Award for Public Architecture
Bell & Spina designed a full roof and window replacement and structural reinforcement of the drill hall portion of the Armory Building. The Armory was originally constructed in 1929 and designed by William Haugaard who utilized a medieval battlement style in the building design and detailing. The drill hall is the pre-dominant feature of the armory and is on the National Historic Register.
Constructed in 1929, Ketchum Hall required a complete replacement of the existing slate roof and copper snow flashings in-kind. Included in the scope of the project is the rehabilitation of the limestone roof cornice and brick chimneys.
.JPG)
Wilson Commons was designed by the architectural firm of I.M. Pei and opened in 1976. Rising approximately seventy feet above grade, the monumental glass atrium is the central architectural feature of the building.
Bell & Spina was retained by the University to ascertain the cause and origin of water entry and aid in their assessment of future plans for the atrium.
Design challenges include meeting current NYS Building Code, ADA compliance while replicating original doors, matching concrete characteristics with patching and phasing/coordinating concrete repairs and window replacements over two construction seasons with minimal affect on the building’s aesthetics and use during semesters.
It was determined that the existing windows were three times less efficient than the windows selected for the replacement. New windows would result in approximately 15% savings in heat cost, 44% savings in air conditioning costs and an overall savings of 17% total year cost where both are present.
Working in cooperation with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), Bell & Spina selected replacement windows and doors which matched the original 1931 units, which had been unsympathetically replaced in the 1980s.
The Everson Museum is an architectural and sculptural masterpiece designed in 1968 by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei. Since its construction, however the museum had been plagued by water infiltration problems. Bell & Spina was called in to provide a long-term solution to the skylights and to provide design services for a new roof.
The existing steel window frames were replicated with thermally-broken units to meet current energy codes and State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) requirements. Windows were replaced with steel operable units replicating the function of the original construction while adding the energy efficiency of insulated glazing. Exterior doors were replaced with FRP units, replicating the proportions and style of the original exterior doors while meeting ADA and code requirements. Bell & Spina prepared documents and made selections for the window and door replacements to facilitate approval from SHPO.
Built in 1917, Colgate Memorial Chapel is the center piece of the academic quad on campus, used for University interfaith church services, convocations, concerts and lectures.
Colgate University retained Bell & Spina Architects to replace all the original wood double hung windows. The original single glazed divided lite wood sash windows were drafty in the winter and hot in the summer and most did not fully open or close.
The new windows have significantly improved comfort level of the sanctuary space and improved the natural ventilation in the building all while remaining faithful to the architecture of the original building.
Hamilton College requested Bell & Spina to ascertain the cause and to design a solution for heat gain into the space below, condensation and water entry at the original skylight system.
The 100 year old skylight system had become a maintenance issue, an investigation showed the skylight had surpassed its useful life and would have to be replaced. Replacement included analysis of glass options and frame configurations to acheive the optimum performance.
Buckham Hall was built in 1966 of steel and masonry/brick construction. This was the 1st major renovation in 50years.
The scope of the project was new Low- E glazing insulated windows, new entrance and vestibule, doors, masonry and concrete repairs and repointing, sitework and building addition.
The new addition was a two story (steel frame) connector linking building A and the B wing which included a curtain wall system. The south entrance of the new addition was updated with ADA compliant sidewalks, entry way and elevator.
The project ran concurrently with an interior renovation project.
Design challenges include meeting current NYS Building Code, ADA compliance while replicating original doors, matching concrete characteristics with patching and phasing/coordinating concrete repairs and window replacements over two construction seasons with minimal affect on the building’s aesthetics and use during semesters.
The Fine Arts Building at SUNY New Paltz, constructed in 1997, is home to various art department programs such as: ceramics, metalsmithing, woodworking, printmaking, and more.
The combination of cyclical freeze-thaw and water corroding the rebar in the precast panels behind the brick, causing the brick to delaminate and fail.
Ultimately, the campus selected a metal/concrete panel rainscreen system. This option allowed for thermal improvements to be made and provided a chance to give the building a “face-lift.”
As part of the façade renovation, the project included replacement of all windows and curtainwall. Other scope items included cleaning of the exterior rotunda concrete panels, the addition of building wayfinding signage, and light-filtering and black out shades at all solar facing windows.
Investigations of the condition of the existing parapet wall at Washington Arms, a five-story residence hall built in the 1920’s lead to the replacement of the entire parapet wall, as well as a general re-pointing of the masonry on the building.
Recognitions:
RCI, Inc, Document Competition, 1st Place Award Recipient 2013, Small Projects.
RCI, Inc. Document Competition, 1st Place Award Recipient 2013, - Report Writing.
Bell & Spina was retained by N.K. Bhandari, Architecture & Engineering P.C. to assist in the NR listed 1930’s barracks buildings renovation project. Complete removal and replacement of the existing roof system
Repointing and/or flashing of stone parapets and facade, removal and repair of existing precast coping stones. Installation of new lead coated copper counterflashing and lintel flashing.
The project was comprised of elements of the entire building envelope. This included repairs to masonry and limestone façade elements, window and door replacements and replacement of the entire roof assembly. Hazardous materials were also abated as part of the project.
Bell & Spina provided elevation concepts to address water infiltration issues and improve the aesthetics at the aging Winding Ridge residential complex. The exterior rehabilitation focused on replacement of the siding and trim, creating canopies over the entry ways and correcting the site grading, which was directing water towards the buildings.
Built in 1965, LoGrasso Hall at SUNY Fredonia offers Health Care Services to over 5,500 students. This one story building houses three separate Centers including Counseling, Health and International Education.
The composite outer wall wythe and inner wythe connection had failed due to water entry, reducing the structural integrity of the wall. The new exterior design improved building performance while simultaneously creating an updated look for the campus facility.
*Recognitions:
AIA Central NY, Design Award Recipient 2013 Commercial/Industrial - Large Projects
RCI, Inc. Document Competition, 2nd Place Award Recipient 2013 - Large Projects
The 14-story and courthouse annex Hanley FederalBuilding was constructed in 1974. The concrete façade started to spall creating a potential hazard to pedestrians.
As a consultant to NK Bhandari, Bell & Spina conducted an initial visual inspection of the façade close-up and using scopes from surrounding buildings. Field investigations and analysis of the original construction details revealed “thin cover” to the reinforcing steel leading to systemic sub-surface corrosion and building wide cracking and spalling of the concrete façade.
Positioned on the side of the St. Lawrence River and built in 1809,the three story limestone building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places (1974) and is the oldest building in the General Services Administration’s (GSA) inventory. A water infiltration study was conducted to assess sub grade waterproofing. Drainage issues pertaining to both the site and foundations were corrected.
Bell & Spina conducted field investigation work around the Plaza Deck to determine the cause of leaks occurring in the interior spaces below. This section of the building is part of the original construction built in 1952.
An investigative waterproofing study isolated the cause and origin of systemic leaking that had been observed for years, particularly at expansion joints.
The site was excavated down two stories at the tunnel, requiring an engineered shoring system to install a new waterproofing system. The waterproofing on the deck of the adjacent portico was also replaced.
When the Civic Center was constructed in 1976, a plaza between the Onondaga County Courthouse and Civic Center was constructed covering an underground passageway between the Courthouse and Civic Center. In 1989, the original precast concrete plaza pavers and wall seats were replaced with granite, but no reconstruction work was done on the original 1976 concrete site walls. Over the years, recessed metal light back boxes and steel guardrail posts recessed in site wall tops rusted deteriorating the concrete.
Onondaga County wanted to repair or replace the concrete walls, but they wanted the Plaza to be unchanged from its 1989 reconstruction appearance.
Using a concrete form liner and adding color to the new concrete, our design team was able to replicate the existing 1976 wall appearance. The steel guardrail top tubes were reused, but posts were replaced with higher posts because the 1976 guardrail height above the Plaza level was no longer code compliant. To keep rusting guardrail posts from deteriorating, the concrete was designed with “weeped” holes constructed to drain water from the concrete post holes.
The State was experiencing leaks in the plaza waterproofing system, causing damage in finished storage space below. The plaza deck pavers, installed in 1978, were shifting and cracking and could not bear the weight of snow removal equipment or window cleaning lifts.
Bell & Spina designed for the replacement of 20,000 SF. of plaza pavers with a split slab concrete overlay system over a fluid applied waterproofing system and energy-compliant insulation. Working with landscape architect subconsultants, a previously expansive and non-inviting public plaza was transformed into human-scale spaces using textures, colors, site furnishings, lighting and vegetation to welcome visitors while offering the option to adjust to venues and functions ranging from craft fairs to food trucks. Areas of shade, previously not offered, were a necessary addition to promote increased occupant use. Security-rated planters, added at street access points, provide controlled vehicular access to the plaza and a 10,000 SF in-slab hydronic snow melt area was provided between the city sidewalk and the main entrance.
Landscape improvements included replacement of all planter bed vegetation including trees, shrubbery, perennials at both the west plaza and east park. Work at the east park included replacement of approximately 2,000 SF of unit pavers, tree removal, concrete wall repairs and site stair repairs.
SUNY Brockport retained Bell & Spina to design exterior stair improvements for the Rakov Center for Student Services, Tower Fine Arts and Hartwell Hall. The existing granite and concrete stairs and landing showed deterioration, cracks and water ponding while some treads have shifted significantly.
On the monumental granite stairs at Hartwell Hall, the granite was removed and reused and the wrought iron railings were replicated. The Rakov Center west entrance stairs and ramp were removed, with regrading, landscaping and retaining walls creating a new ADA compliant entry. At the Tower Fine Arts building, precast concrete stairs were replaced with granite stairs and bookended by concrete landscaping planters.
Bell & Spina contracted with EDR to design landscaping and site improvements adjacent to the newly rehabilitated entry stairs at all three buildings.
Constructed in the 1950's and 60's, a number of residence hall entrances were not compliant with current codes (ADA) and had deteriorated retaining wall and entry plazas. Sites were analyzed for circulation, gathering, drainage, snow removal, safety/visibility, maintenance and landscaping. Standards were developed for railings, plantings, pavers, retaining walls, stairs, ramps, coatings and site accessories. Entrances, retaining walls and terraces were repaired and/or modified, incorporating design solutions to each location.
Design was fast-tracked to allow for bidding and construction to be completed during off-peak use in the summer. The results enhanced and unified entrances across the campus.
This investigation was to aid the University in their assessment of future plans for the existing waterproofing assembly protecting the subterranean spaces beneath the entry terrace. Our investigation concluded that the majority of observed deficiencies were located at the perimeters, and we recommended a series of localized, corrective repairs in phases.
Bell & Spina provided a investigative waterproofing study and isolated the cause and origin of systemic leaking that had been observed for years, particularly at expansion joints. The site was excavated down two stories at the tunnel, requiring an engineered shoring system to install a new waterproofing system. The waterproofing on the deck of the adjacent portico also warranted replacement.
The project replaced the outdoor kiln structures for the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. The college’s MFA program in Ceramic Art has a distinguished history as a premier institution for education in the art and today, is ranked number one by U.S. News and World Report.
The existing area consisted of a group of several metal and wood constructed sheds with varying floor elevations within a tight footprint, bordered by a creek bank, parking lot and Harder Hall. Accommodations for existing equipment in the new facility included 6 gas-fired downdraft soda/salt kilns, a single-chamber wood-fired kiln, a double-chamber wood-fired salt kiln and a Raku gas-fired kiln with room for expansion
Due to the caustic atmosphere created by the salt kilns, a heavy timber structure was designed for the new facility. A clerestory and slatted walls allow daylight to enter the building while protecting the year-round use of the kilns from harsh weather. Coiling doors allow for wood delivery and an outdoor secure, covered storage area accommodates glass cullet and surplus firebrick storage.
Buckham Hall was built in 1966 of steel and masonry/brick construction. This was the 1st major renovation in 50years.
The scope of the project was new Low- E glazing insulated windows, new entrance and vestibule, doors, masonry and concrete repairs and repointing, sitework and building addition.
The new addition was a two story (steel frame) connector linking building A and the B wing which included a curtain wall system. The south entrance of the new addition was updated with ADA compliant sidewalks, entry way and elevator.
The project ran concurrently with an interior renovation project.
Roof replacement and pool building restoration totaling 3.27 million dollars.
Constructed in 1960, Skyhalls I, II, and III house roughly 350 students. Each Residence Hall is comprised of three stories and has two gang bathrooms per floor. In total, 75 new individual bathrooms were constructed to create more privacy for students. The goal of the design and materials selection was to allow for easy cleaning, low maintenance and provide durable finishes.
Also included in the scope of the project was renovated laundry areas on each floor. All three buildings were renovated the summer of 2011.
Constructed in 1956, Flint Hall is a four-story, 527 student Residence Hall consisting of two wings.
Bell & Spina designed and replaced four stacks of gang toilet rooms with 100 individual bathrooms on four floors without the loss of a single bed. Also included in the project was the renovation of Kitchenettes on each floor as well as several Special Needs bathrooms.
The Sadler Hall Bathroom Renovation project, was part of Syracuse University’s ongoing effort to renovate/update existing public bathroom spaces within older Residence Halls. The building was constructed in 1960, with eight floors, and was originally designed with gang bathroom configurations on each floor.
Syracuse University asked Bell & Spina for design assistance with a complete bathroom renovation for the building. In response to student preference for more privacy, the task given was to design private bathroom spaces.
An educational program was developed based on the district’s overall plan to improve the learning environment and update the building.
Programming indicated that the 195,000 square foot building required an addition of 25,000 square feet to meet the changes. The need for an addition gave opportunity to reorient the main building entrance creating a single point of entry and new face to the building.
The project included the reconfiguration of the first floor west wing into a variety of unique bedrooms including new apartments with full amenities for the Resident Director.
The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) and its affiliate clinical space (The Gebbie Clinic) were relocated and consolidated into a single location. The program included a clinical and therapy component for speech, language pathology & audiology, including evaluation of specific sound attenuation and technology requirements. Support spaces for supervisors, facility & support staff, classrooms, work rooms and student lounges were also required to accommodate 24 academic, clinical and adjunct faculty members instructing a graduate and doctoral student population of 70, in addition to its undergraduate program.
Erdman Anthony, the Commissioning Authority for the project, retained Bell & Spina as a sub-consultant to provide exterior wall and roof infrared imaging on the new Crothers Science and Nursing Center. Our objective was to identify thermal anomalies in the exterior wall assemblies which might correlate with a breach in the air barrier. Imaging of the roof was to identify thermal anomalies suggestive of water in the roof assembly.
Infrared investigations were use to assess the causes and effects of known water entry to various locations of the complex and to make recommendations regarding suitable repairs and/or replacements.
As a consultant to Erdman Anthony to satisfy specific BECx components of the Owner’s Program Requirements (OPR), Bell & Spina provided Building Enclosure Commissioning Services (BECx). Our services consisted of water penetration tests, air leakage tests and infrared imaging.
Bell & Spina provided BECx peer review for the new University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, designed by HOK. Rendering by HOK.
Bell & Spina is the Building Envelope Commissioning Agent on the addition and renovation of Hinman Hall. Providing BECx design phase consulting, construction phase consulting and construction phase verification services for the new addition only. Evaluation of both the thermal envelope and the wall air barrier and/or water resistive barrier. This is largely because air losses and unmanaged water within the wall assembly would render the insulation ineffective.
.JPG)
Bell & Spina is the Building Envelope Commissioning Agent on the construction of five new dormitory buildings and a dining hall adding over 2,000 student beds and 750,000 square feet of new space to the University.
Bell & Spina was retained by the Erie County Medical Center to provide a third-party design review of the roofing, exterior wall, historic masonry and fenestration systems. The project had an aggressive schedule. To meet the needs of the client, Bell & Spina mobilized four building enclosure specialists on the project to meet the deadline.
Bell & Spina has been retained to provide building enclosure commissioning (BECx) services for the Rochester Regional Health Critical Care Center addition. The primary focus on this assignment was the thermal envelope. Visual reviews play a pivotal role in this process, but infrared imaging will also be utilized. The wall air barrier and/or water resistive barrier was also being evaluated with air leakage and water penetration tests were performed.
Bell & Spina was the Building Envelope Commissioning Agent for the construction phase of the 281,000 square foot building which included offices, classrooms, gymnasium, swimming pool and an ice arena. At approximately 47 feet high, the exterior wall area of 92,500 square feet was largely steel structure with masonry cavity walls and a concrete block back-up. The renovation project included removal of existing masonry veneer and replacement with a closed-cell spray insulated metal stud wall, faced with glass-mat gypsum sheathing and a terracotta rainscreen system. All storefront entrance doors, exit doors, curtainwall and window systems were replaced. Commissioning responsibilities included construction phase monitoring of masonry walls; steel stud framed exterior walls with terracotta rainscreen systems; air and moisture barriers; roof and wall insulation; windows; storefronts; curtainwall systems; sealants and flashing. Provided thermography of the building façade in accordance with ASTM E 1186–17, “Standard Practice for Air Leakage Site Detection in Building Envelopes and Air Barrier Systems”. Arranged for and observed air and water penetration testing at multiple locations in accordance with AAMA 501.2 and AAMA 503.
As part of a master plan study of all county operations the county’s 95,000 square foot abandoned nursing home was assessed to consolidate a number of related operations which included the sheriff’s administration, road patrol, detectives, probation, and the emergency management operations including the 911 center and the Fire Coordinator’s office.
Bell & Spina designed a dairy farm, as part of the 902-acre Cobleskill School of Architecture and Natural Resources Campus.
The team of Bell & Spina, P.C., Keplinger Freeman Associates and Fuegel Engineering was retained to perform a Master Plan Study for the entire Onondaga Community College Athletic and Physical Education Program. From the study, it was determined that there was a need for a field house event center as the college’s two-time national championship lacrosse and soccer teams had outgrown the current program configuration. The current program ties into the existing health and physical education building.
The space occupied by the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) and its clinical affiliate the Gebbie Clinic, was no longer capable of meeting the program requirements for both instruction and clinical training as required by its accrediting agency, the American Speech and Language Hearing Association (ASHA).
Immersing ourselves into the clinic, a program emerged that included classrooms, work rooms, student lounge, faculty offices for undergraduate instruction with another program of instructional/clinical spaces for the graduate and doctoral program. The clinic program included both evaluation and therapy components for speech, language pathology and audiology along with support spaces for staff and supervisors.
Bell & Spina conducted a feasibility study to assess how the facility might be repurposed.
.jpg)
