Smart Systems
The facility, now controlled by a building-management system, received all new mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire-protection systems. The city’s desire to promote the use of sustainable and high-efficiency systems coupled with site constraints and budget provided design challenges. Separate air handlers on acoustic isolation curbs and a pad-mounted air-cooled chiller were selected. The cooling is zoned and controlled through separate variable-air-volume units. To meet required acoustic design criteria, the ductwork had
to be oversized so a greater amount of air could be delivered at a lower velocity, thus reducing the acoustic impact. High-performance gas-fired boilers heat the building through zoned hot-water delivery. To meet a lower water-usage goal, dual-flush and low-flow fixtures were installed.
During the design process, building energy modeling was conducted to verify the efficiency of the design. The building envelope and building systems were virtually tested to inform decisions, such as how to insulate the building or size the mechanical equipment so they could perform properly without adding excess electrical demand. Currently, the project is in the process of becoming LEED Certified.
The Hamilton Stage for the Performing Arts has been operating since September 2012 with more than 100 scheduled events. It has received accolades from patrons and performers alike. The Hamilton is a case study for how thoughtful and creative design strategies and planning can result in a successful renovation project that can include sustainable goals and practices.
Retrofit Team
Built by the city of Rahway Redevelopment Agency, Rahway, N.J.
Architect: FMG Architects LLC, succeeded by Mills + Schnoering Architects LLC, Princeton, N.J.
- Partner in charge: Michael Schnoering, AIA
- Project manager: Andrew P. Burian, AIA
Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing Engineer: Joseph R Loring & Associates Inc., Princeton
Site/Civil Engineer: Bohler Engineering, Warren, N.J.
Theater Systems: Fisher Dachs Associates, New York
Audiovisual Systems: Sound Video Lighting Solutions, Harrisburg, Pa.
Acoustics: K2 Audio, Boulder, Colo.
General Contractor: Gingerelli Brothers Construction, Toms River, N.J., (732) 929-9779
Retrofit Materials
Theatrical Lighting: Strand Lighting
Audiovisual Systems: Crestron Digital Media, Renkus-Heinz, APB Dynasonics
Translucent Panels: Kalwall
Corrugated Metal Panels: Flexospan
Glass Curtainwall: Kawneer
Fluid-applied Air Barrier Material: Tremco
Acoustic Panels: Rulon
Standing-seam Roof: Englert
Low-slope PVC roof: Carlisle SynTec
EIFS: Sto Corp.
Chiller and Air Handlers: Carrier
Boiler: Laars Neotherm
Dual-flush Toilets and Low-flow Fixtures: American Standard and Zurn
Restroom Accessories: ASI