The University of Florida’s (UF) Malachowsky Hall for Data Science and Information Technology is an approximately 260,000-gross-square-foot, seven-story, state-oftheart multidisciplinary facility that houses the university’s engineering, healthcare and bioinformatics programs in the heart of UF’s campus. Experiential learning, diverse research and high-performing workspaces come together in Malachowsky Hall to nurture agile, forward-thinking data science solutions.
The building is primarily cooled with dedicated outside air systems serving active chilled beams throughout. As part of the university’s commitment to sustainability, there is a roof-mounted photovoltaic system.
UF chose Hanson to provide commissioning for the new facility, including the pre-construction, construction and post-occupancy phases of the project. The services began prior to the completion of the schematic design and encompassed a complete peer review of the design, systems and envelope constructability; the completion and maintenance of the owner’s project requirements; the development of the commissioning plan and specifications; and construction-phase prefunctional, functional and performance testing for mechanical, electrical, building automation and building envelope systems.
Challenges and solutions
Hanson faced the challenge of how best to incorporate environmental conservation and energy-saving features into the project to earn Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum® certification while working within a compact site with existing underground services and abiding by UF’s design guidelines.
The project team held regular, remote interactive meetings that included the university’s planning, design and construction division, the architect and engineer, the construction manager and Hanson as the commissioning provider to accomplish that goal.
The project achieved LEED Platinum certification in November 2024, a recognition earned by “enhancing operational efficiency, minimizing environmental impacts and creating an iconic building that elevates educational excellence at the University of Florida,” said Dustin Stephany, UF’s sustainable building coordinator.
