The lower level of SUNY’s School of Optometry at 33 West 42nd Street, previously used for non-technical functions, underwent a full renovation to accommodate a new bio-science lab, pre-clinical lab, dissertation areas, simulator room, exam rooms, toilet rooms, and storage rooms.

For the new lab areas, which required increase air exchange rates, Collado designed an HVAC system with a new low pressure horizontal duct distribution system connected to the existing vertical duct risers. Air flow rates in the new lab spaces are designed for a minimum of six air changes per hour during occupied periods, and two air changes per hour during unoccupied periods.

In additional, a new electrical panelboard to feed the project area from an existing 225 Ampere panel was installed, with flexibility for future add-on circuit breakers.