Washington & Lee University, Lenfest Hall
Henry Adams provided MEP design for the new 60,000 SF music and art wing addition to Lenfest Hall. The multi-story wing rests on a steep wooded hillside overlooking Woods Creek. The building houses an art and music department that was required to be extremely sensitive to its surrounding environment including a residential neighborhood across the stream. Notable spaces include a 200-seat performance/rehearsal hall, large studios for fine arts, piano studio, individual music practice rooms, photography darkrooms, lecture hall and student lounge.
The mechanical design features use of the campus-chilled water system with additional pumps and air handling equipment, with isolated sound and vibration measures.
The electrical system is derived from the campus distribution system, using a pad-mounted transformer and distribution panels to extend feeders to major program space. The emergency distribution system consists of a diesel-driven generator with transfer switches for lighting and atrium smoke exhaust equipment.
The lighting is a joint effort with a theater consultant for performance and stage, with all other areas designed by Henry Adams. A telecom/data distribution system, with Category 6 wiring, for telecommunications and computer systems is provided.
Energy conservation measures include energy recovery wheels for outside air, condensate heat recovery on steam systems, high efficiency motors, variable air volume, flow restrictors on plumbing fixtures, self-closing faucets, automatic controls of HVAC, and high efficiency fluorescent lighting with solid state ballasts and T-8 lamps where possible.
The fire alarm system is an analog addressable system consisting of manual and automatic initiation devices, interfaces with the theater lighting and sound systems, and audible and visual notification appliances.
Other systems include lightning protection, a conduit system for theater sound, video, and communications wiring and devices, and a theater lighting control system and a building lighting control system interfaced with the building energy management system.
Additional Information:
| Location | Lexington, VA |
| Construction Value | $19,225,000 |
| Owner | Washington & Lee University |
| Architect | ZGF Architects |