Consulting-Specifying Engineer - June 2008 - (Page 49)

Vestibules in retail design are nonexistent except for large anchor stores. Individual lease spaces with access to the building’s exterior value the storefront space too much to incorporate vestibules or revolving doors to prevent infiltration to the space. This, again, becomes of particular concern when dealing with the town center type of mall development. There are several exceptions to this requirement in the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code where the requirement for a vestibule is required at all publicly accessible entrances to spaces that are larger than 3,000 sq. ft of sales floor area. In some municipalities, another exception is permitted for spaces that employ the use of an entryway similar to a lobby to protect the main interior environment from direct contact with the exterior environment. To incorporate this exemption into a smaller retail space would require acceptance from the lease holder to modify the typical sales floor layouts used as part of the imaging policy for that company. The opinion of a local code authority also is required to determine if this type of strategy is acceptable on a caseby-case basis. Structural elements A final consideration for building system designers is structural elements within the building. Structural systems, such as posttensioned slabs and shear walls, can prohibit the passage of distribution systems, such as ductwork and electrical conduits. Identifying these elements early can eliminate expensive rerouting of systems to reach tenant spaces. It is best practice to establish routing areas for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems, and to make structural designers aware that these areas will need access through the building structure. In extreme cases, an entire wall of a mid-rise building could be used as a shear wall system, eliminating the potential of using the building face for HVAC penetrations. If no space is available up through the building or on the roof of the building for HVAC systems, expensive penetrations through these structural systems will certainly result in budget overages. Designing building systems for retail settings is a balancing act between prudent judgments and compensating for changes. Some important pieces of information such as up-to-date leasing plans, well-written lease agreement requirements, and clear understanding between real estate professionals and design professionals can help eliminate the ambiguity in large mall developments. Top priorities for designers should be to maintain the flexibility of the HVAC system to compensate for inevitable changes in the project and strive to collaborate with architectural and structural components of the design as early as possible. Having an organized plan for building services will allow for tenant build-out of leased spaces easily and quickly, which translates into higher occupancy rates for the developer and quicker opening dates for retailers. Lininger is a project engineer and primary LEED consultant at GASAI, concentrating on improving the energy efficiency of retail and commercial building designs. N EW ! Innovative Outdoor Emergency Lighting Powered by High-Output LED Technology The Dual-Lite PG Series provides advanced LED technology; unique reflector/lens design; minimum one-foot-candle egress path; wetlocation, cast-aluminum enclosure; and upscale styling in a single unit. It’s perfect for placement over any exterior entrance/exit or along perimeter walkways. Choose from three lightly textured powder-coat finishes. Spectron® self-testing/selfdiagnostic circuitry is included standard for performance reliability and ease of maintenance. Find out more from your local Hubbell Lighting, Inc. sales representative or visit www.dual-lite.com. Outdoor Emergency Lighting In Its Natural Habitat Let LED Power Work For You In Emergency Situations Input #227 at csemag.com/quickResponse Consulting-Specifying Engineer • JUNE 2008 49 http://www.dual-lite.com http://www.dual-lite.com http://csemag.com/quickResponse

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Consulting-Specifying Engineer - June 2008 Contents Viewpoint Letters News M/E Roundtable No Gambling Allowed on Smoke Control in Las Vegas Be Prepared: Hospital Protections for Catastrophic Events Ready for Retail Commissioning Documents: Necessary Evil Codes & Standards Codes & Standards Case Study Equipment Lifecycles New Products Advertiser Index Green Space

Consulting-Specifying Engineer - June 2008

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