Designing the MEP to convert a two-story office building into 22 apartments

Location: Denton, Texas
Services: Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing
Category: Multifamily residential.
Area: 7,000 sq. ft.
Software: AutoCAD, Bluebeam, HAP 5.11, PIPENET 1.8

This project converted a two-story office building into a multiple dwelling unit with 22 single-bedroom apartments. The extensive mechanical, electrical and plumbing design conducted by 3S MEP + Structural required some special considerations.

The HVAC system design matched the exhaust vent to the existing façade and maintained a 3-foot distance from operable openings to comply with local codes. Ducts were routed in the soffit and were also designed to function as a return plenum.

Low-profile equipment was chosen to address the restricted ceiling space, and the washroom ceiling was dropped to accommodate the AHU.

The mechanical design included heating, cooling and ventilation as well as HVAC drawings for each dwelling unit. Heat-load calculations ensured compliance with IMC-2021 and ASHRAE 62.1 standards. The mechanical team also selected equipment such as AHUs, heat pumps, and ceiling exhaust fans.

The electrical design covered lighting, power, and fire alarm layouts. Fire protection included a wet sprinkler system and hydraulic calculations across the building, with reference to NFPA 13R and IBC standards as well as the Denton Fire Code.

The plumbing team designed the domestic water and sanitary waste systems and selected water heaters and circulating pumps. Tank-type water heating systems were designed with a hot water recirculation systems that operate by pushbuttons. The controls include timers to maintain water at the required temperature. Heat strips were employed in exposed areas to prevent pipe freezing.

With all 3S MEP projects, a primary focus is integrating MEP and structural designs with the construction and architectural partners and the end-users to minimize the need for design adjustments or revisions during the construction process. Design teams from 3S MEP actively engage with all stakeholders to identify potential conflicts and optimize overall system layout. Our teams are exceptionally proficient at harmonizing essential building elements for successful outcomes