Part 1: Framework for Functional Design: Laboratories that work for Their Users

Tim Murphy, AIA, LEED AP, Murphy + Graves Architects
Courtney Fisk, MBA, University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research

In a world where 'sustainability', 'LEED' and 'eco-friendly' have become popular buzz words, it is more important than ever to reiterate the fundamental purpose for responsible design. In the end, sustainability is about improving the quality of life of each individual affected by the facility. Due to their extended reach, laboratories require rigorous planning, heightened attention to detail and facilitators with their thumb on the pulse of progressive research.

The University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER) recently constructed a new 43,000 square foot high-performance laboratory(#2), which houses specialized research programs dedicated to biomass and biofuels, electrochemical power sources (capacitors and batteries) and distributed solar energy technologies. Due to the nature of research being conducted, the project was funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act's (ARRA) NIST Construction Grant Program, as well as with monies from the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the University of Kentucky.

While currently seeking LEED Gold certification, the building design target was a 50% reduction in energy usage compared to similar laboratories. Despite having large energy-consuming portions of the building, including a 0.5% RH drylab, class 10,000 and (2) Class 100,000 clean rooms, and (2) high/low temperature environmental rooms, the facility is exceeding original goals. After seven (7) months in operation, the CAER Laboratory #2 accomplished approximately: 54% reduction in energy usage from the baseline energy code; 40% utility cost reduction compared to the 1970's-era CAER Building #1; and 60% lower kBtu/SF than peer laboratories (based on Labs21 benchmarking tool)

This technical session uses the CAER Laboratory as a case study to illustrate how intelligent, thoughtful and responsible design can deliver a facility that transforms its research programs, university and surrounding community. Project approach, implementation of new technologies, lessons learned and current performance data will also be discussed.

Based on experience with CAER, the presenters will address ways to:

  • Identify spoken and unspoken needs by engaging stakeholders on a more effective level.
  • Enhance the user experience by designing the facility around the individuals and programs that exist within.
  • Integrate nontraditional means of educating various levels of user groups.
  • Reduce the facility's overall 'footprint' by making responsible design decisions, utilizing cutting-edge products/materials and integrating energy saving technology.
  • Continuously monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of processes, practices and implementation strategies by documenting post-occupancy performance.

Biographies:

Mr. Murphy is the founding principal of Murphy+Graves Architects, and has 25 years experience with educational programming, planning, and architectural design. His passion for innovation and sustainability, as well as his focus on client connections, continue to drive his practice. Mr. Murphy has managed multi-disciplinary teams of national and local consultants for a myriad of high-profile projects including the University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research Laboratory and Morehead State University's Space Science Center. On every initiative, he champions a design approach that maximizes the value of available resources through strategic planning and enhances the user experience through intentional design. Mr. Murphy has a bachelor's degree in architecture from the University of Kentucky, and is a LEED Accredited Professional. He was recently appointed to the Kentucky Board of Architects and was recognized as a Citizen Architect by the American Institute of Architects.

Courtney Fisk is currently the Engineering Program Manager at the University of Kentucky's Center for Applied Energy Research. She received a bachelor's and master's degree in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, as well as a MBA from the University of Kentucky. Ms. Fisk has been at CAER for seven years and has transitioned from an Engineer Associate in the Biofuels Group to managing multi-million dollar construction projects. Working closely with architects, engineers and funding agencies, Ms. Fisk has coordinated four initiatives at CAER totaling more than $25 million. In addition to managing construction projects, she also serves as the Program Manager for the KY NSF EPSCoR Program, which is a $20 million research project. Their mission is to assist in strengthening research and education in the fields of science and engineering to advance, encourage and develop long-term improvements in scientific discovery, innovation and learning throughout the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

 

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