The 154,300 sq. ft. Eccles/HHMI Genetics Laboratory Building at the University of Utah is a state-of-the-art laboratory designed for genetics research. The driving force of the mechanical system is centered around the fume hoods throughout the laboratory building. Due to the sensitive experiments and hazardous chemicals used, it is critical to maintain the air velocity across the face of the hood at 100 fpm under any condition. In response to these conditions, VBFA designed an air flow control system to meet these design criteria. The fume hood exhaust system is a variable air floor system designed to maintain the constant hood face velocity while providing a variable exhaust system that saves a tremendous amount of energy and money.
The construction of this building required major utility extensions. The property is located within an area of the University of Utah which originally was army barracks south of the Medical Center.