Premise Health operates a network of healthcare facilities across multiple states, requiring tailored renovations to transform diverse office and retail spaces into state-of-the-art medical offices. Each location presents unique challenges, demanding thoughtful, consistent, and expertly designed systems. As a subconsultant to an architectural partner, Leopardo Energy (LE) provided specialized design consulting services, including HVAC, electrical (lighting, power, and data), and plumbing systems. Leveraging extensive expertise, LE delivered innovative, high-quality designs on time and within budget, ensuring seamless integration and operational excellence for each facility.

Unoccupied “Back of House” Space Heating Requirement

• Challenge:The unconditioned “Back of House” space, initially not in contract (NIC), was flagged by permitting officials as requiring heat, an unforeseen regulatory requirement.
• Response: The contractor proposed heating options. Mechanical and electrical engineers evaluated these options, conducted on-site metering of electrical panels to assess feasibility, and provided recommendations.
• Outcome: The issue was resolved in 3 business days, demonstrating efficient coordination between the contractor, engineers, and permitting officials to address the regulatory requirement without significant delays.
• Key Takeaway: Proactive metering and rapid engineering assessments ensured compliance while maintaining the project timeline.

Ductwork Fitment Issue

• Challenge: After exposing ceilings, the contractor identified issues with the ductwork design, indicating that the original routing was not feasible due to on-site conditions.
• Response: The contractor suggested alternative routing options. Mechanical engineers reviewed these proposals, clarified site conditions through further investigation, and recommended adjustments. This required updates to the design drawings.
• Outcome: The issue was resolved in 4 business days, including the time needed for reassessment and drawing revisions, keeping the project on track.
• Key Takeaway: Effective communication between the contractor and engineers, paired with quick design revisions, mitigated the impact of the unforeseen site condition.

General Observations:

• Both challenges underscore the importance of flexible scoping and rapid response mechanisms in construction projects, especially in occupied spaces where full access during the design phase is limited.
• The durations (3 and 4 business days) reflect a streamlined process, likely supported by strong collaboration among contractors, engineers, and other stakeholders.
• Common strategies included contractor-initiated suggestions, on-site verification (e.g., metering, condition clarification), and engineering-driven recommendations, ensuring solutions were practical and compliant.