National Fuel: Training Facility

APEX was retained by National Fuel to provide professional Architectural/Engineering (A/E) services associated with the planning, design, preparation of construction documents and contract administration of a proposed new Training Facility and associated site design, on the Mineral Springs Road Campus. The proposed facility is approximately $1.2M, one story, 7,750 gross square feet, stand-alone training center for classroom instruction, hands-on training, and offices. The structure design utilized an economical ‘metal building system’.

Sustainable “Green design” strategies have been incorporated into the design to provide a building that is environmentally responsible as well as a healthy enjoyable place to work or visit. A whole building approach to sustainability was used by recognizing key areas of building performance and incorporating as many strategies as possible that the project budget would allow. In addition to reducing overall energy consumption some specific sustainable strategies that were incorporated include: building/site orientation, building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) solar electric system, day-lighting techniques with integrated dimming systems, lighting occupancy sensors, utilization of responsible materials, reduction of water usage, incorporation of high-performance glazing and sunshades, zoned HVAC systems and increased insulation.

The project was completed in 2011 on schedule and within the established budget.