Deer Creek Elementary School in Fishers, Indiana is a new construction project, developed with an emphasis on creating modern and advanced learning environments. The school, sprawling over 103,000 square feet, was materialized with a construction budget of $35 million. CSO Architects conceived the architectural design, and the detailed design of the Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Telecommunications (MEPT) systems was developed by R.E. Dimond and Associates.

The school’s layout comprises several learning neighborhoods, each encompassing six studios/classrooms. These neighborhoods serve as multifunctional learning areas to accommodate diverse teaching methodologies and learning preferences, promoting collaboration and interactive learning. Each neighborhood is complemented by a shared activity area to facilitate a range of educational and group activities. A distinctive feature of each neighborhood is the integration of a small STEM lab, providing versatile spaces for students to engage in scientific projects.

One of the critical aspects of the project was the sophisticated integration of the MEPT systems by R.E. Dimond and Associates. The mechanical design focused on creating efficient and sustainable HVAC systems to maintain optimal indoor environmental quality, crucial for enhancing learning and concentration. The electrical systems were designed to be robust and flexible, ensuring reliable power distribution and accommodating the diverse needs of various learning spaces, from classrooms to labs.

The plumbing systems were developed focusing on sustainability and water conservation, utilizing water-efficient fixtures and optimized piping layouts to minimize water usage and ensure consistent water supply throughout the facility. The school was also outfitted with advanced telecommunications systems to support modern learning tools and technologies, fostering connectivity and facilitating seamless communication and information exchange within the learning environment.

Attention was also given to strategically placing three sets of student restrooms to maximize accessibility and convenience for students. The restrooms were designed with modern fixtures and durable materials to ensure longevity and minimal maintenance.

Deer Creek Elementary School is a culmination of meticulous architectural planning by CSO Architects and precise MEPT systems design by R.E. Dimond and Associates. This collaboration has resulted in a state-of-the-art educational facility that combines functionality, sustainability, and advanced technology to create an enriching and conducive learning environment for students. The project stands as a testament to the synergy of architectural innovation and engineering excellence in shaping the future of educational spaces.

Completion  2021

Size 4,000 SF

This forward-thinking projects re-imagines an existing South Decatur High school industrial space to a state-of-the-art nursing lab that provides students a realistic experience in a unique learning environment. The renovation includes project demonstration areas, two mock ICU rooms, a nursing classroom,  and a Project Lead the way biomedical room with sink and maker boards.

Challenges included reuse of existing HVAC and creation of a realistic hospital environment.

The design included wireless lighting controls, faux and new receptacle access for 3 D printers, power, sinks, laundry, de-ionized water system, and security and control access. A closed-loop geothermal system with terminal heat pumps and energy recovery ventilators, LED lighting, and a roof-mounted solar array delivers sustainable design.

Size  46,392 SF

Construction Completion  Summer 2021

Building Project Summary

Cathedral High School developed the concept of their new Innovation Center as a desire to align their math, science, and STEM classes. The addition also allows for a new main entrance to the school and a centrally-located cafeteria.

The kitchen and dining areas were relocated and the new space allows enhanced interaction between students, as well as creating a science center with classrooms for computer programming, robotics, science, and a maker space.

Energy efficiency was the focus in developing the building systems in the new three-story atrium and front door to campus. MEPT design included the addition of a boiler and modification of heating/water sequence to work with the existing high school’s two-pipe system.

Size 105,000 SF
Construction Cost $50,000,000
Completion Date  2021

With four existing elementary schools reaching capacity and a growing population, it was clear the town of Plainfield would need a fifth elementary school. R.E. Dimond and Associates provided mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design services for the new school serving 900 students.

The new elementary school is being constructed as a long-term asset with design and materials reflective of this expectation and an emphasis on safety and design to fit in the rural environment.

R.E. Dimond and Associates designed a cost-effective MEP system that provides energy efficiency and ease of maintenance. Gas-powered boilers and VAV air handling units along with chillers and ductless split systems provide heating and cooling, Radiant heat at large glass areas keeps occupants comfortable.  Electrical design includes power, LED lighting, and a fire alarm life safety system. Plumbing design provided for domestic, hot water, and storm systems. The building is fully sprinkled with a wet pipe automatic sprinkler.