Project Overview
The Helen Kottle Memorial Building, home to the College of Education at Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida, underwent a comprehensive interior renovation to modernize its facilities and ensure code compliance. InnoDez Engineering was contracted to provide full MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) engineering design services and energy code compliance calculations for this pivotal educational facility upgrade. The project is currently in the construction phase.
Owner: Bethune-Cookman University
Architectural Partner: MJS Designers Group
Project Location: Daytona Beach, Florida
Building Type: Educational / Business Use (Occupancy Type B)
Construction Type: Type IIB (Sprinklered)
Stories: 2
Building Area: 16,452 sq. ft.
Occupant Load: 429 persons
Challenges and Solutions
The renovation scope called for alteration to the existing two-story structure, which was originally designed with a mid-century modern architectural language. The primary challenge involved reconfiguring bathroom facilities to meet modern ADA and Florida Building Code requirements while maintaining cost-efficiency and minimizing disruption to the structure.
InnoDez began with a detailed site survey to evaluate existing systems and spatial constraints. Our team collaborated closely with MJS Designers Group to deliver precise mechanical, electrical, and plumbing designs that aligned with the architectural reconfiguration and complied with FBC Chapter 10 egress and travel distance requirements. The building’s height of 22′-6″ and internal layout necessitated smart coordination to fit MEP systems within tight ceiling and wall cavities, especially around the proposed new elevator shaft and west entry addition.
Technical Highlights
HVAC Design: Upgraded system layouts to support revised occupancy loads and comply with ASHRAE 90.1 energy standards.
Electrical Design: New panelboard configurations to support re-routed circuitry and lighting upgrades, including emergency and egress lighting per code.
Plumbing Reconfiguration: Complete redesign of restroom facilities to ensure ADA accessibility and fixture counts per code.
Energy Compliance: Delivered energy modeling and envelope calculations per Florida Building Energy Code, with emphasis on lighting power densities and mechanical efficiency.
Phase 2 Planning
Future additions include the installation of a new elevator on the building’s north side and a new main entry on the west facade. InnoDez is coordinating infrastructure provisions to allow seamless integration of these upgrades during the second construction phase.
Outcomes
InnoDez’s technical leadership and responsive coordination with MJS Designers Group ensured a high-performance design solution tailored for higher education environments. The Kottle Building now stands as a safer, more efficient, and code-compliant academic space, supporting Bethune-Cookman University’s mission to deliver excellence in teacher education.
