Case Study:  Fort Carson Battalion Complex

Modular Building Institute 2010 Award Winner

Building Project Information Colorado Springs, CO Number of Modules: 22 Average Size of Modules: 14’ x 60’ x 12’ Total SF: 15000 Use: Military Special Forces Days to Completion: 123 days

Architectural Excellence

Under the strict supervision of the new landmark Military Special Forces Head Quarters Army Corp of Engineers, the Ft. Carson building design used the same standing seam metal roof, windows, and full brick veneer surface to match the existing high-spec aesthetic. Gypcrit, a highly durable concrete-like material, was used for floors finished with commercial carpet and tile coverings. The building has three large classrooms, a resource center, message center, men and women’s restrooms, display cased vestibule, staff offices, filing and storage rooms, commander group reception area, business center, four command offices, SIPRNET network room, conference room, six offices with common meeting areas, mechanical room, storage room, recycle room, and electrical room. Showers and locker facilities were also provided within the structure.

Technical Innovation

The Military Special Services HQ building needed to be self contained for security purposes. Centralized utility and electrical rooms were pre-set at the factory. The complex HVAC system was site installed. A complete wet fire suppression system was designed and installed so that it could be fully loaded to handle the building’s independent sprinkler system. Secure rooms were created for military SIPRNET and COMM systems. Conduit pathways for the wiring network with an upgraded high speed communication system, mass notification system and centralized fire alarm were all configured at the time of manufacture. A full sprinkler system was 90% off site manufacturing process.

Cost Effectiveness/Energy Efficiency

The building was designed to improve thermal performance in this Colorado high mountain zone. Greater energy efficiencies were achieved with the advanced DDC energy management system. . Lighting in unoccupied rooms is controlled by occupancy sensors. . Setback windows reduced direct sunlight heat build-up. Accelerated construction in the manufacturing process provided a cost effective building solution both architecturally and functionally.