Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences
The professional engineers at Acoustics By Design provided comprehensive acoustical consulting for the newly constructed Health Sciences College at the downtown Grand Rapids campus of Grand Valley University. ABD used 3D software to make noise measurements and to predict how the building would sound after construction. With this data at hand, we provided detailed recommendations for architectural acoustics, mechanical noise control, and interior noise isolation. Our design played a crucial role in improving the facility’s environmental quality and scholastic atmosphere.
The building is comprised of five floors housing 24 classrooms and seminar rooms, 30 teaching and research labs, 200 faculty offices, 18 conference rooms, a 150-seat auditorium with the latest electronic features, a food-service area, and library. A sixth floor contains the ventilation, heating, and cooling systems for the building. Two levels of parking are located below the academic floors for staff and visitors. The building houses the University’s health professions programs and research, and is the training ground for our future health care professionals. Cross-disciplined education is encouraged throughout the student population, and the 15 study/meeting areas and large public gathering spaces were designed to accommodate the changing dynamics of the educational environment. Wireless technology access is provided throughout the facility. Dedicated cubicles are provided for intensive individual studying and on-line research. Casual rooms and lounge-type spaces with comfortable chairs are located throughout the facility for impromptu student gatherings and collaboration.
The building is 265,000 gross SF (162,000 net SF). This $53,000,000 building project was completed June 2003, and has received several awards including two Associated Builder & Contractor Awards for Buildings over $30 Million and Interior Finishing over $3 Million, as well as an Outstanding Building Award for Works in Progress in 2002 from the American School & University Architectural Portfolio.