Michigan State University MEP Engineering Design

The 46,000 sf Eli & Edythe Broad Art Museum (EEBAM) is located on the campus of Michigan State University. The building facade consists of metal and glass structures assembled in varying complex angles. Spaces in the museum include gallery, storage, administration, circulation and associated support spaces. The building environment was designed to achieve museum “Class AA” standards as defined in Chapter 21 of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Applications Handbook, with design criteria of 70°F ±2°F, and 50%RH ± 5%RH.

With the building located in the harsh winter climate of Michigan, careful consideration was given to avoid condensation at the building’s exterior fabric. A unique electric heat trace system, designed in close coordination with Underwriters Laboratories, was incorporated into certain window mullions to prevent condensation on cold winter days. All ceiling mounted systems, including lighting, fire alarm, security, sprinkler heads, audio visual, and telecommunication systems were carefully coordinated to follow distinctive lines that were integral to the interior architecture with careful consideration of the limited service access opportunities in the ceilings. The lighting systems were designed to complement natural light while highlighting (yet preserving) the collections.