ABOUT THE FACILITY:
The Rane Culinary Science Center is a transformative complex that provides students of hospitality and culinary sciences with a hands-on learning experience to develop commercial hospitality industry skills within an innovative, cutting-edge facility. With SEA’s expertise in Alabama commissioning services, the center ensures optimal functionality and performance. The multi-use facility includes:
- Luxury boutique hotel with 10 suites, 16 single-room units, and 6 private residences for long-term leasing
- Spa and rooftop garden
- 40-seat teaching restaurant for culinary science instructors
- 9,000 SQ FT food hall with numerous vendors
- Operational coffee roaster and food/beverage media studio
- Distilled spirits center with micro-distillery & tasting room
- 80-student culinary exhibition lab with atrium-style seating and non-conventional cooking stations, which require very complex systems with sophisticated operability.
SCOPE OF WORK:
SEA was the commissioning authority, ensuring the facility fulfilled the functional and performance requirements for the building owner and occupants. To reach this goal, the commissioning process established and documented Auburn’s criteria for system functions and performance, and verified compliance with criteria throughout the design, construction, and initial period of operation. Additionally, complete O&M manuals along with training on system operations were provided. SEA, known for its Alabama commissioning services, was involved in all phases of the project for Cx of these systems:
- Building automation system to include any temperature and humidity monitoring, alarming to specific critical areas (freezers, coolers, etc.)
- All equipment of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems, including kitchen exhaust/makeup systems
- Scheduled, occupancy sensor, and daylight dimming lighting controls
- Secondary electrical distribution system
- Domestic water heating systems and distribution piping
- Domestic and process water pumping and mixing systems
CHALLENGES / IMPACT / RECOGNITION:
Delays in construction caused commissioning to occur after occupancy. SEA was able to discreetly execute a successful commissioning process, working around the classroom schedule, kitchens, and distillery labs; and the occupancy schedules of the private luxury suites and spa. Exquisite cleanliness and discretion were paramount to avoid disturbance of the clientele. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the Rane Culinary Science Center is LEED® certified, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.