In addition to the concrete and recycling work, several other sustainable features included placing semi-permeable asphalt in the 150-space parking lot. Photovoltaic panels are being installed on the roof, and cisterns will collect rainwater for irrigation. A large area of Gamble Oak on the hillside was preserved, and improvements to the Shoreline Trail, which runs in front of the building, were made.

Nelson credits two key issues in keeping the complex project on schedule. The first was Big-D’s early creation of a building information model. The 3D document spelled out in detail where and how different areas were to be constructed so exhibit and display designers working away from the building site knew exact dimensions and other details. Secondly, Nelson says the regular monthly team meetings among exhibit designers, carpenters and other specialty trades kept things on schedule.

“Early on, we made a mandate that we would get together at least once a month in the same place on-site to go over things,” he says. “Overall, I think the whole cast of characters involved in this ended up having a great time.”

Project Team

Owner: Dept. of Facilities Management, State of Utah/University of Utah

Architects: Ennead Architects/GSBS Architects (architect-of-record).

Exhibit design: Ralph Applebaum Associates

Landscape architect: Design Workshop, Salt Lake City

General contractor: Big-D Construction

Engineers: civil: Stantec, structural: Dunn Associates Inc., mechanical: Colvin Engineering, electrical: Spectrum Engineers