The Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum is located on the campus of Michigan State University. Featuring world class architecture by the renowned Zaha Hadid, the building façade consists of metal and glass structures assembled in varying complex angles.
The unique architecture required that all mechanical and electrical systems be carefully integrated within the complex angles of the walls and ceilings, while still meeting the strict environmental needs of the facility.
The building environment was designed to achieve museum “Class AA” standards as defined in Chapter 21 of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Applications Handbook, with design criteria of 70°F ±2°F, and 50%RH ± 5%RH.
All ceiling mounted systems, including lighting, fire alarm, security, sprinkler heads, audio visual, and telecommunication systems were carefully coordinated to follow distinctive lines that were integral to the interior architecture, and also with careful consideration of the limited service access opportunities in the ceilings. The lighting systems were designed to complement natural light while highlighting (yet preserving) the collections.
With the building located in the harsh winter climate of Michigan, careful consideration was given to avoid condensation at the building’s exterior fabric. A unique electric heat trace system, designed in close coordination with Underwriters Laboratories, was incorporated into certain window mullions to prevent condensation on cold winter days.
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