American University (AU) purchased 4401 Connecticut Avenue NW and initiated a design/build renovation to provide a new, world-class broadcast facility for its nationally renowned radio station, WAMU. The station’s new headquarters includes three broadcast studios and two news studios with dedicated control rooms; multiple editing rooms; and a theater where programming is performed in front of live studio audiences.
GHT employed Revit® MEP building information modeling (BIM) software to provide mechanical and plumbing design for the project. The building’s mechanical system was replaced with a Dedicated Outdoor Air System (DOAS), a high-performance HVAC system that maximizes building energy efficiency and usable square footage. The system’s terminal units include both fan-powered DOAS terminal units and active chilled beam units. Chilled beams support a quiet environment for the studio spaces, while DOAS terminal units provide flexibility to general office areas. The core of the mechanical system consists of two air cooled chillers (335 tons combined), two boilers for heat, and domestic hot water.
Upgraded electrical service includes new switchgear, panels, and additional capacity to serve the needs of the data center and broadcast facilities. A new distributive redundant uninterruptable power supply (UPS) supports the station’s ability to continue operating in the event of a power outage with the use of a new 750KW generator located on the roof.
