Phoenix, AZ
University of Arizona, Phoenix Biomedical Campus, Health Science Education Building
Scope/Solutions
The six-story Health Sciences Education Building at the Phoenix Biomedical Campus houses classrooms, lecture halls, offices, and a below-grade research core. The cladding consists of a 45,000 sq ft rain screen comprised of approximately 2,500 vented copper panels over various substrates. The exterior fenestration is primarily four-sided structural-glazed curtain wall elements with aluminum spandrel panels. As the building enclosure consultant, SGH addressed challenges associated with the high temperatures in Arizona and the complicated transitions between numerous cladding materials.
Our design and analysis services for the cladding, roofing, and insulation included the following:
- Performing a preconstruction design review
- Evaluating moisture and heat considering 120°F ambient temperatures
- Investigating hygrothermal performance of the copper panels, masonry veneer, and architectural concrete wall assemblies
- Analyzing combinations of weather barriers and insulation using WUFI modeling software
- Designing multi-sized copper and two-part metal flashing around windows to accommodate airspaces, variations in window depths, drift joint movement, and aesthetics
- Participating in the mockup process to promote the uniformity and quality of installation
- Reviewing submittals and observing construction, mockups, and field testing
- Supporting the LEED certification effort
Photo by Bill Timmerman
Photo by Bill Timmerman
1 of 5
Project Summary
2012
Completion Date
LEED
Certification
Award
Winner
Solutions
New Construction
Services
Building Enclosures
Markets
Education
Client(s)
DPR-Sundt, A Joint Venture
Specialized Capabilities
Building Science
Key team members
Additional Projects
West
Stanford University, Lathrop Library
SGH assessed the condition of the hipped and low-slope roofs, facades, and terraces.
West
San Francisco Conservatory of Music, Bowes Center
Described as a vertical village, the new Ute and William K. Bowes, Jr. Center for Performing Arts at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music creates a complete and collaborative campus for the school. SGH consulted on the building enclosure design for the project.