Completed Archives - R. E. Dimond and Associates, Inc.

MSD Wayne Township Solar Canopy

November 7, 2023 by

Aerial photo of solar PV cells over a parking lot.

Sustainable solar energy for Indianapolis’ west side

Background

Located in the heart of Indianapolis, MSD Wayne Township Schools recognize the urgency of embracing sustainable practices for a greener and healthier environment for the students and the community. With increasing environmental concerns and the need to reduce carbon footprints, the decision to harness the power of the sun has been a strategic move in the right direction.

The Solar Canopy Initiative

This project aims to establish solar canopies in the parking facilities that will not only provide shade to vehicles but will also play a pivotal role in generating clean and renewable energy for multiple vital facilities within the township. R.E. Dimond and Associates worked with teams from Veregy to help construct the canopies. Their expertise ensured the system worked with maximum efficiency while reducing carbon output.

Beneficiary Buildings

The generated solar power will be used to source electricity for:

Fire Department Headquarters: A critical facility that ensures the safety and protection of the community.
Transportation Building: The hub that ensures smooth transportation facilities for the students and staff.
Conference Center: A gathering place for both educators and the community for numerous knowledge-based events and meetings.
Westlake Elementary School: A nurturing environment where young minds are molded and future leaders are developed.

Technical Specifications

Strategically placed 2,388 solar modules for maximum impact

The project comprises 2,388 solar modules strategically installed over parking areas, which collectively provide a significant energy yield. Each beneficiary building will receive:

120kw

Conference Center: 120kw – This will significantly reduce operational costs, ensuring that more resources can be channeled into educational endeavors and community programs.

220kw

Fire Department Headquarters: 220kw – Powering the backbone of the safety infrastructure ensures that the community remains safe while embracing eco-friendly energy.

300kw

Transportation Building: 300kw – Keeping the transportation system green is vital for a sustainable future.

350kw

Westlake Elementary School: 350kw – Investing in green energy for the schools is an investment in a better future for the children.

Conclusion

The MSD Wayne Township Solar Canopy Initiative is not just a project; it is a statement

A statement that showcases the commitment to sustainable practices and ensures that the township remains a role model for other districts. By transitioning to solar power, the initiative aims to provide the students and the community with a tangible example of environmental responsibility, paving the way for a brighter, cleaner future.

Deer Creek Elementary School

October 16, 2023 by

The library inside Deer Creek Elementary

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.

Revitalization of The Stutz Building

October 6, 2023 by

The new gateway entrace at the Stutz Building

Location: Downtown Indianapolis, Indiana
Total Number of Buildings: 7
Overall Square Footage: 450,000 SF

SomeraRoad, leveraging its innovative approach to urban development, is reimagining The Stutz Building in downtown Indianapolis, endeavoring to infuse life into the historic facility. This project aspires to create a multifunctional hub, integrating elements like the Stutz Car Museum, food & beverage outlets, co-working spaces, artist studios, retail areas, and fitness centers, contributing to a vibrant urban fabric.

A project vision for historic adaptive reuse

This redevelopment is inspired by a vision of historic adaptive reuse, blending unique architecture and rich history to foster an ambiance of authenticity. The project seeks to materialize a modernized, mixed-use urban campus, employing a micro-neighborhood strategy to curate distinctive and enriching spaces.

The Stutz was inspired by projects across the US

Ponce City Market in Atlanta: A historic structure transformed into a vibrant community hub, hosting a diverse array of culinary, retail, and entertainment spaces, reflecting a harmonious blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy.
Industry City in NYC: A reimagined industrial complex, fostering innovation and creativity through a dynamic mix of workspaces, retail, dining, and cultural experiences, reflecting the energy and diversity of urban life.

A century of history behind the Stutz

The Stutz Building serves as a monument of the Stutz Motor Company’s innovative spirit, established in 1911, and has been pivotal in defining Indianapolis’s automotive landscape. The redevelopment seeks to honor and amplify the legacy of this iconic entity.

Engineers and crews tackle significant challenges

General Challenges:

Reconciling the absence of historical information and integrating contemporary enhancements with historical preservation and tenant-centric improvements.
Navigating through financial constraints, development phases, and unforeseen challenges induced by the COVID pandemic.

Specific Challenges:

Plumbing, Fire Protection, and Telecommunications face intricate challenges like modernizing outdated systems, integrating new technologies while maintaining historical value, and ensuring operational continuity amidst extensive renovations.

Three primary goals for the revitalized Stutz

Preservation and Innovation:

Emphasize and maintain the architectural and historical essence of the building while integrating advanced amenities and infrastructures.

Inclusivity and Sustainability:

Develop diverse and inclusive spaces focusing on environmental conservation through energy-efficient systems.

Telecommunications and Operational Goals:

Ensure seamless operation of existing systems and optimize space and functionality in alignment with telecommunications standards and tenant requirements.

The engineering solutions and MEPT scope of work deployed by R.E. Dimond and Associates

Solutions:

Design compact, efficient, and flexible systems, assuring operational continuity and optimizing space and functionality across different engineering domains.

MEPT Scope of Work:

Elevator Design, ADA Upgrades, Centralized HVAC Infrastructure, Electrical Services Enhancement, Plumbing & Central Restrooms Installation.

The revitalization of The Stutz Building stands as a symbol of the harmonious integration of history, technology, and modern lifestyle. Drawing inspiration from iconic projects and driven by a vision of adaptive reuse and authenticity, this project aims to be a beacon of cultural and industrial innovation in Indianapolis, offering a multifaceted urban experience.

Hamilton Heights School Corporation Solar Campus

January 17, 2023 by

Students take on energetic role with the school’s new solar array

Aerial view of the Hamilton Southeastern solar array. — *4,224 solar panels installed for the Hamilton Heights High School, Middle School & Elementary*

Three Hamilton County schools benefit from new ground-mounted solar PV systems

Three schools for Hamilton Heights School Corporation have new solar array systems designed by R.E. Dimond and Associates.

Hamilton Heights High School now includes a 680 kW AC, ground-mounted solar photovoltaic PV system. Hamilton Heights Middle School has a 520 kW AC, ground-mounted solar photovoltaic PV system, and Hamilton Heights Elementary School features a 400 kW AC, ground-mounted solar photovoltaic PV system.

Watch this 90-second video to see how Hamilton Heights schools are putting their new solar arrays to work in the classroom and in their budget

“We reviewed the electrical bills from the last three years so we could size the solar array to meet most of the needs at usage because we don’t want to produce more than the school needs. …and as utility rates keep going up, the payback could increase annually.”
— Aaron Schipp, electrical engineer, R.E. Dimond and Associates

$270,000 saved in electrical costs and priceless learning opportunities

In addition to saving the district over $270,000 a year in electrical costs by reducing their electrical usage by 70%, all three Hamilton Heights Schools are excited to use the solar arrays in their science and math curricula. The program will help teachers educate students about the latest innovations in renewable energy and the importance of sustainability.

Photo of the solar array at Hamilton Southeastern schools — *The new solar arrays collect about as much as the district needs to reduce their dependence on external utilities.*

At the elementary level, teachers introduce students to the sun’s intense energy in our solar system and how people have harnessed the sun’s power. At the intermediate level, teachers are guiding students through ways electricity, energy storage, and wattage works. High school teachers show students how electrons and protons work, how photovoltaic cells interact with energy and its efficiency, and more.

In science, engineering, and math courses at all levels, students get real-world experience measuring energy, understanding its uses, the engineering behind the solar array, and practical benefits for sustainable engineering and building design.

Watch a presentation about the real power and benefits behind their new solar PV system

Aaron Schipp, the electrical engineer for the project, gave a presentation in late 2022 on the benefits of a solar photovoltaic system for AIA Indiana and its history.

“Solar panels don’t have moving parts. Cleaning comes from the weather, and while we do need to keep looking at the panels and monitor them, and they do take up a lot of space, solar panels should last over 25 years…once you’ve paid back the initial cost [over 12 years], you’ll save a lot of money.”
— Aaron Schipp, electrican engineer, R.E. Dimond and Associates

Watch the whole presentation to learn more about the history of solar, the fundamentals of solar systems, and the cost/payback options.

Indiana State University

May 12, 2022 by

Over ten years of sustainable, leading-edge building renovations and facilities

Indiana State University first turned to R.E. Dimond and Associates in 2009 for a College of Education renovation with featuring skylights, an interior courtyard, and 200,000 square feet of learning and lab space.

Since then, R.E. Dimond and Associates has developed a close working relationship with Indiana State University and its facility teams.

Our work over the last decade with ISU has included:

Indoor and outdoor facilities
Student housing
Classroom and lab space
Underground and rooftop MEP systems
High-tech sensors and equipment
Athletic facilities
LEED silver certified buildings
And historic preservation and renovation projects

3D models help ISU and R.E. Dimond & Associates forecast renovations and system needs

The 35,000 square-foot dining hall at ISU was ready for a 5,000 square foot addition. The Sycamore Towers, long a residential hall for students, was combined with the dining hall for more efficient operation for 1,000 students.

But updating the dining hall posed problems with the existing ventilation. R.E. Dimond and Associates engineers used 3D models to show how a precast T-band roof system would accommodate the piping, thermal envelope, and heating and cooling needs of the building.

Using this advanced 3D model, we were also able to design in void, data, security, A/V, fire, and interior and exterior lighting and power systems.

The result was a $14 million renovation project with advanced technology, heating, and cooling that provided on-demand and controlled ventilation with HVAC and other building systems.

This project, coupled with previous energy modeling projects to update energy efficiency and temperature controls, laundry rooms, connectivity, and alarm systems has made Sycamore Towers a safer, comfortable, and efficient space for students to live, study, and eat.

400 meters of track, 9 competitive lanes, and 4,000 safe, comfortable seating

R.E. Dimond and Associates was proud to provide design services for Indiana State University’s new Gibson Track and Field Complex. Design included event lighting, site lighting, and all mechanical, electrical and plumbing associated with building components for the locker rooms, coaches’ offices, meeting rooms, public restrooms and concession stand.

Electrical work included temporary security lighting, temporary power for temporary toilets, storage and track meet operations room including coordination of “future” power requirements with ISU staff.

R.E. Dimond also provided scoreboard and timing systems, wiring, cable routing and sound system wiring including power and speaker wiring for the $3.8 million project.

Mixed-use student apartments and commercial space at 500 Wabash

R.E. Dimond and Associates was selected to join the design team for the 500 Wabash Avenue project. The design features restaurants, shops, office space, an outside dining area and student apartments. The one, two, three or four bedroom units feature private bedroom/bathroom suites, along with a common area where students gather to study or socialize.

R.E. Dimond and Associates prepared mechanical and electrical plans, which included HVAC, fire suppression and plumbing systems, as well as power, lighting, and alarm systems.

The project was completed in Summer 2015 and included 64,800 square feet of apartment space and 16,200 square feet of retail space.

More projects completed at Indiana State University

ISU Arena Locker Rooms

Construction Cost
$765,000

Size

Size

6,300 SF

Construction Completed

Spring 2013

Indiana State University – Arena Locker Rooms Remodel

The Sycamore Basketball Locker Room is located in the ISU Arena Building as part of a renovation of the facility into a practice area for the basketball programs. This area gives the team an area to gather during the day and also to use as a study hall. The Sycamore Basketball Locker Room also allows the team to have an area to dress before and after practices held in the ISU Arena

ISU Welcome Center

Construction Cost

$2,500,000

Size

27,000 SF

Construction Completed

Summer 2012

Indiana State University – Welcome Center Remodel

R.E. Dimond and Associates designed a remodel which included complete replacement of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems in the building. The Moore Welcome Center serves as the “front door” of the university. Designed as a living room, the main area of the newly renovated 22,000-square-foot building features 11 interactive transparent touch screens students and visitors can use to learn about the university’s history, academic programs and services. When not in use by visitors, those same screens are interconnected, displaying an ever-changing array of choreographed videos and photographs. Guests can watch an introductory video on a nine-section LCD screen in the center’s new 50-seat theater, equipped with a surround-sound system.

Erickson Hall

Construction Cost

$9,000,000

Size

81,000 SF

Construction Complete

July 2013

Indiana State University – Erickson Hall HVAC Renovation

R.E. Dimond and Associates provided mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design for the complete renovation of Erickson Hall, an 81,000 square foot Indiana State University residence hall. The facility includes student rooms with academic themes, classrooms, meeting and conference rooms, offices and public areas, and a central laundry facility. The design included air conditioning for the entire facility, the student rooms as well as technology and a complete dry pipe sprinkler system.

Pickerl Hall

Construction Cost
$8,400,00

Size

68,000 SF

Construction Completed

July 2011

Indiana State University – Pickerl Hall

R.E. Dimond and Associates provided mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design services for the renovation of Pickerl Hall, a 68,000 square foot residence hall. The facility includes 120 student rooms, meeting and conference rooms, office and public areas, and laundry facilities. Air conditioning was added to the double-occupancy rooms. Private restrooms were also added with this renovation. Construction was completed in the summer of 2011.

Sandison Hall

Construction Cost:
$9,400,000

Size:
63,000 SF

Construction Completed:
July 2010

Building Project Summary:

Sandison Hall is an eight story, 63,000 square foot residence hall on the ISU campus. The building’s interior spaces were completely remodeled in 2010.

The hall will house 229 students in air-conditioned, double occupancy rooms with private baths. Sandison Hall has many features geared toward students majoring in nursing and healthcare professions including the McKee Nursing Center which is equipped with the latest technology. R.E. Dimond and Associates provided the design for all new mechanical, electric, plumbing and fire suppression systems in the entire building.

College of Health and Human Services Pool Renovation

Indiana State University’s CHHS houses a natatorium for its academic programs, its women’s intercollegiate athletics, and student recreation. Since the dated pool and decking did not meet current building codes or today’s or esthetic standards, ISU included a complete pool area renovation as part of the CHHS facility renovation which included major upgrades to improve temperature control and air quality with complete replacement of all mechanical, electrical, plumbing systems.

Chilled Water Plant

Construction Cost:
$6,000,000

Design Team:
RE Dimond & Associates, Ratio Architects, and Lynch, Harrison, Brumleve, Inc.

Building Project Summary:
RE Dimond was chosen to design a central chilled water plant with thermal storage and a complete chilled water distribution system to fifteen (15) campus buildings for Indiana State University.

Measures Implemented:
The Indiana State University campus needed to replace many old and inefficient steam absorption boilers. A new central chilled water system was the answer the university was needed. RE Dimond designed a campus wide system with a cooling capacity of peak 5275 TONS utilizing electric centrifugal chillers and thermal ice storage. The project included analysis of existing load and distribution systems to optimize the capacity of underground chilled water piping, plus a phasing plan to allow for continued operations during construction of the new facility.

Decatur Nursing Lab

October 28, 2021 by

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.

Sweetwater

May 6, 2015 by

Sweetwater Expansion

Sweetwater is North America’s largest online music technology and instrument retailer, and is located in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

With Sweetwater’s remarkable growth, came the opportunity to renovate and expand its campus. R.E. Dimond and Associates has worked with Sweetwater since 2012, and recently completed various projects which required a design team of architects, contractors, structural and MEPT engineers to design and build multiple jobs concurrently.

R.E. Dimond and Associates provided the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and technology design for over 1,000,000+ SF of state-of-the-art warehouses, mezzanine, office spaces, cafeteria with a stage, coffee bar, and a 30,000 SF retail expansion. Other areas designed by R.E. Dimond and Associates include acoustically-isolated music laboratories, a marketing addition, Sweetwater University: an on-boarding and training center, and an employee wellness center with locker rooms and salon.

The warehouses require a strict humidity and temperature control design. The mechanical design includes a sequence of operations for humidification and dehumidification control to maintain a year-round set point of 45% relative humidity. A recent site visit observed less than .5 degree temperature variance throughout the facility including from floor to the 40’ ceiling.

As part of the expansion of the new warehouse facility, R.E. Dimond and Associates upgraded Sweetwater’s chilled water plant and designed a seamless redundant fiber ring to maintain 24-hour operations, seven days a week. This outside plant application will help avoid downtime in the data center, accelerate deployment speeds from Sweetwater’s two internet providers, and provide the most advanced voice, data, and video services.

Additionally, R.E. Dimond and Associates designed a generator system to back up the Sweetwater facility to their local electric utility’s advantage. A partnership opportunity emerged during the construction of the distribution facility. Sweetwater had a business need for standby generation in the event of a power outage, and Northeastern REMC had a need to reduce system-wide demand on peak days. Click HERE to learn more about a unique financial partnership between Sweetwater and Northeastern REMC.

Traditions of Columbus Senior Living

October 26, 2021 by

Creating a resort oasis for seniors in south central Indiana

Residents, guests, and staff at Traditions of Columbus benefit from the resort-like atmosphere inside and surrounding the senior living facility.

It’s quiet, comfortable, and has everything for residents to maintain health, fitness, and activity.

Overview

Project: Traditions of Columbus
Location: 588 S. Country Club Road, Columbus
Client: Leo Brown Group senior living facilities
Project size: 86,000 SF
Goal: New construction

Designing accessible, sustainable, and comfortable living spaces for residents

Completed in the fall of 2020, Traditions of Columbus is part of the Leo Brown Group’s portfolio of senior living facilities. R.E. Dimond and Associates was part of the design team for Traditions of Lebanon, Ohio and Traditions of North Bend, Ohio.

Traditions interior dining room — *The dining room inside the Traditions of Columbus senior living facility*

The Columbus facility features:

Six four-flex garden homes
One six-flex garden home
86,000 square feet of new construction
Space for 126 seniors in assisted-living and memory care facilities
Dining areas
A fitness room
Theater
Chapel
Lounge
Salon
And a game room

R.E. Dimond and Associates was part of the design team that included HVAC, fire protection systems, domestic water, electrical for interior and exterior site lighting and controls. In addition, the electrical service entrance, power distribution and utilization, and fire alarm were part of the electrical design.

Brownsburg Community School Corporation Transportation and Maintenance Center

September 16, 2021 by

Brownsburg Transportation and Maintenance Bays

More space for more buses in growing Brownsburg

Brownsburg Community School Corporation needed its Transportation and Maintenance Center to grow along with the tremendous growth of the area schools.

The new single-story Transportation Center was completed in 2021 and features:

Covered parking for 147 buses
New wash bays
New staff amenities
Room for growth

Overview

Project: BCS Transportation and Maintenance Center
Location: 570 Airport Road, Brownsburg
Client: Brownsburg Community Schools
Project size: 52,400 SF
Goal: Expand bus parking and maintenance bays

Brownsburg Transportation Facility — *The new Transportation Center features 10 pull-through repair bays with easier entrances, traffic flow, and safety for drivers and staff.*

Developing new traffic patterns to improve safety and traffic flow

Inside the Brownsburg Transportation Center

A single-story new Transportation Center features canopied parking for 147 buses and includes options for future expansion.

The facility includes bus wash bays, offices, a mezzanine, and parking for 179 staff members. Additionally, the new facility offers ten pull-through repair bays and improves traffic patterns at the entrances.

R.E. Dimond and Associates’ design also provided for fuel station tanks, fluid transport, and compressed air systems that are safe and efficient.

Campus Solar Installation – Northside Middle School and Taylorsville Elementary Bartholomew County School Corporation

September 14, 2021 by

Bartholomew County School Corporation chose R.E. Dimond and Associates to design solar systems for two of their schools: The Northside Middle School which features a 300 kW, 1008 module roof-mounted solar photovoltaic PV system, and the Taylorsville Elementary School which features a 200 kW, 672 module roof-mounted solar photovoltaic PV system.

Over a one-year period, the Northside Middle School PV system generated 454 MWh which offset energy costs by $45,400, and the Taylorsville Elementary School PV system generated 249 MWh which offset energy costs by $24,900. The schools incorporated the solar monitoring system in a school-wide program that compliments their STEM education curriculum.

Sustainable solar energy for Indianapolis’ west side

Background

The Solar Canopy Initiative

Beneficiary Buildings

Technical Specifications

Strategically placed 2,388 solar modules for maximum impact

120kw

220kw

300kw

350kw

Conclusion

The MSD Wayne Township Solar Canopy Initiative is not just a project; it is a statement

A project vision for historic adaptive reuse

The Stutz was inspired by projects across the US

A century of history behind the Stutz

Engineers and crews tackle significant challenges

Three primary goals for the revitalized Stutz

The engineering solutions and MEPT scope of work deployed by R.E. Dimond and Associates

Students take on energetic role with the school’s new solar array

Three Hamilton County schools benefit from new ground-mounted solar PV systems

$270,000 saved in electrical costs and priceless learning opportunities

Watch a presentation about the real power and benefits behind their new solar PV system

Over ten years of sustainable, leading-edge building renovations and facilities

3D models help ISU and R.E. Dimond & Associates forecast renovations and system needs

400 meters of track, 9 competitive lanes, and 4,000 safe, comfortable seating

Mixed-use student apartments and commercial space at 500 Wabash

More projects completed at Indiana State University

Creating a resort oasis for seniors in south central Indiana

Overview

Designing accessible, sustainable, and comfortable living spaces for residents

More space for more buses in growing Brownsburg

Overview

Developing new traffic patterns to improve safety and traffic flow

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