Challenge
A confidential client initiated a renovation of the second-floor vivarium in Building 274A to upgrade HVAC systems, lighting, and interior finishes across ten holding rooms and their associated ante rooms, totaling approximately 28,000 square feet.
A critical driver of the project was the need to modernize aging control systems. The existing pneumatic controls, dating back to the 1980s, limited the facility’s ability to define operating parameters, monitor real-time conditions, and receive alerts required for safe and compliant vivarium operations. Precise control of HVAC and lighting systems was essential to ensure occupant safety, animal welfare, and regulatory compliance.
The renovation also needed to be executed while maintaining ongoing facility operations, requiring careful phasing to allow portions of the vivarium to remain in use throughout construction.
Solution
Hallam-ICS partnered with SLAM Collaborative to assess the existing building systems and develop a comprehensive renovation design. The evaluation determined that much of the existing ductwork and fire protection piping could be reused, while all sprinkler heads were replaced to meet current requirements.
Mechanical upgrades included the installation of new supply and exhaust air valves with high turndown capability to support intensive cleaning procedures and maintain proper room pressurization. Reheat coils, trim, steam humidification units, and all associated piping and accessories were replaced with new equipment to improve performance and reliability.
Hallam-ICS fully modernized the building controls by migrating from the legacy pneumatic system to a new standard DDC platform. This upgrade enabled users to define setpoints, monitor real-time system status, and receive alerts aligned with operational requirements.
Lighting systems were designed specifically for a vivarium environment. New fixtures featuring independently controlled white and red LED elements were integrated with a Siemens lighting control panel to support daytime and nighttime illumination needs. Lighting layouts were carefully engineered to provide even light distribution with either mode, while preventing concurrent operation of red and white lighting.
Additional scope included coordination with Siemens for lighting controls integration and collaboration with the client’s security and low-voltage teams to design camera placements, door operators, and card reader locations that met internal standards. New sinks, faucets, hose reels, and emergency eyewashes were also incorporated to support daily vivarium operations.
Construction was completed in multiple phases over several years, allowing the client to continue using portions of the holding rooms while renovation work progressed.
