At Capco Engineering, we pride ourselves on our ability to deliver tailored Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) solutions that meet the unique needs of each project. Recently, we had the privilege of working on the tenant improvements for Movement Therapy, a physical therapy office located in North Richland Hills, TX. With over 30 years of experience in MEP design, we were excited to provide innovative solutions for this 3,700 SQFT facility, optimizing comfort, efficiency, and functionality.
In this case study, we explore how our team worked with Movement Therapy to transform an existing commercial lease space into a cutting-edge physical therapy clinic, while ensuring that the MEP systems were efficient, code-compliant, and aligned with the vision for the facility.
Project Overview
The project entailed providing MEP designs for the tenant improvement (TI) of an existing commercial space that would be converted into a physical therapy office. The design aimed to accommodate a variety of essential spaces, including therapy and exercise rooms, exam rooms, a break room, office space, restrooms, and lockers.
The layout and specifications for the MEP systems were developed to meet the project’s unique requirements. The finished space would have a well-designed HVAC system, a comprehensive electrical configuration, and plumbing installations suited to the operational needs of a physical therapy clinic. Additionally, the design adhered to local codes, ensuring that the space would be safe, sustainable, and ready for construction.
Scope of Work
Our scope of work for the Movement Therapy TI project included the following key tasks:
1. Mechanical (HVAC) Design
One of the most important aspects of this project was creating an HVAC system that would ensure the comfort of patients and staff. Given that physical therapy clinics often involve high activity levels, the need for effective air circulation and temperature control was critical. Our mechanical engineers performed HVAC load calculations to determine the appropriate capacity and equipment needed for the space.
We designed the system to ensure energy efficiency, comfort, and cost-effectiveness while maintaining the flexibility required to accommodate various activities within the facility. Our HVAC design included:
- HVAC load calculations to determine heating and cooling requirements.
- Equipment selection and scheduling, tailored to the layout and operational needs of Movement Therapy.
- Detailed ductwork and piping layouts to ensure proper airflow and distribution of heating/cooling.
- Diffuser and grille locations for optimal air distribution throughout the therapy rooms, exam areas, and offices.
- Mechanical equipment locations and details to ensure proper placement and function within the available space.
- HVAC specifications on the drawings for easy installation and future reference.
2. Electrical Design
A major component of the tenant improvement project was ensuring that the electrical systems would meet the facility’s needs, while providing flexibility for future upgrades. Movement Therapy required a robust electrical system to support lighting, power, and specialized equipment for therapy services.
Our electrical team provided a complete design that included:
- Electrical load calculations to determine service sizing requirements and ensure capacity for the intended operations.
- Lighting fixture selections and schedules, with a focus on efficiency and quality of light. The lighting design aimed to create a comfortable atmosphere conducive to therapy, while also supporting task lighting in exam rooms and offices.
- Electrical panelboard schedules and riser diagrams for clear and organized power distribution.
- Detailed electrical plans showing wiring, circuits, and switch locations, which ensured a seamless installation process.
- Electrical specifications on drawings for clarity and ease of construction.
3. Plumbing Design
With the inclusion of restrooms, exam rooms, and a break room, the plumbing design for this project was critical in providing reliable water supply and waste disposal systems. Our plumbing engineers ensured that the systems were not only functional but also efficient and sustainable.
Key aspects of our plumbing design included:
- Plumbing load calculations to determine water usage and waste requirements for the space.
- Fixture selections and schedules to provide high-quality plumbing options that are both cost-effective and durable.
- Detailed plumbing plans, including piping layouts, fixture connections, and fixture locations for an optimized plumbing network.
- Plumbing specifications on the drawings to ensure smooth implementation and high standards for installation.
4. Coordination with Other Trades
Throughout the course of the project, coordination between disciplines was essential for a seamless design and construction process. We worked closely with the architectural and structural teams to ensure that the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems would integrate perfectly with the building’s design. Our team’s ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with other trades helped to reduce potential issues during construction and ensured that the MEP systems were implemented smoothly.
5. Compliance with Energy Codes
With an increased emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency, the COMCheck calculations for energy code compliance were an integral part of this project. Our engineers ensured that the systems met or exceeded energy efficiency standards, reducing operating costs and supporting the client’s sustainability goals.
Challenges and Solutions
Every project has its own set of challenges, and the Movement Therapy TI project was no exception. One of the key challenges we faced was the space’s existing layout and the need to rework the mechanical and plumbing systems to fit the new design. Given the clinic’s high-demand spaces, it was crucial to ensure that the HVAC system provided optimal airflow without compromising comfort.
Solution: Through careful planning, our engineers designed a flexible HVAC system with adjustable diffusers, ensuring that all therapy rooms and exercise spaces were kept at the proper temperature without causing discomfort.
Another challenge was ensuring that the lighting provided the right balance of energy efficiency and atmosphere. Movement Therapy required specific lighting levels for various tasks, including exams and treatments, while also creating a welcoming environment for patients.
Solution: By selecting high-efficiency LED lighting and strategically placing fixtures, we achieved the necessary brightness while maintaining energy-efficient operation.
Conclusion
The Movement Therapy TI project is a great example of how Capco Engineering’s MEP design solutions provide a blend of efficiency, innovation, and collaboration. By working closely with the client and other trades, we were able to deliver a functional and sustainable design that will support Movement Therapy’s operations for years to come.
With our over 30 years of experience, we are committed to providing high-quality MEP design solutions that prioritize sustainability, energy efficiency, and long-term performance. Whether you are working on a tenant improvement, new construction, or a renovation project, Capco Engineering has the expertise and dedication to deliver exceptional results.
For more information on how we can help with your next project, contact Capco Engineering today!