Longwood University Jarman Hall

Project Highlights

• First capital project in the state of Virginia to achieve LEED® Gold rating
• Innovative specification of magnetic-bearing chiller technology
• Designed a uniquely coordinated MEP system for state-of-the-art university auditorium

Project Description

Jarman Hall is one of the largest auditoriums in south central Virginia, but it was beginning to show its years. Its outdated heating and cooling system was making so much noise that it distracted from the audibility and popularity of the space. In addition, demand for auditorium space was surpassing its seating capacity. EKFox was asked to join the project team because our of our expertise in higher education and our track record of working in tandem with architectural, theatrical, and acoustical consultants, as well as our experience with the Bureau of Capital Outlay Management (BCOM).

Project Challenges

During the project, the Governor of Virginia issued an executive order requiring all capital projects in the state to achieve LEED® certification within the existing budget.

Overcoming the Challenges

EKFox was able to help the project achieve the goal of LEED® certification without exceeding our budget. Our resourceful implementation of a magnetic-bearing water chiller, a relatively new innovation with HVAC systems, enabled us to meet the needed noise reduction levels and lower power consumption targets. Not only did we helkp accomplish the goal set by the Governor of Virginia, but Jarman Hall is recognized as the first LEED® Gold capital project in the state.

Notably, our design cost modeling realized a 48% energy cost savings above the project’s baseline model.

“Major system renovations in existing buildings almost always represent significant design challenges, but the most satisfying part of the Jarman Hall renovation was achieving a 48% annual energy cost savings beyond the code mandated for the system in the renovated building.”
—Benjamin W. Crowley, PE, LEED AP – Mechanical Engineering Department Head