CH2M HILL

High-Density Data Centers

CH2M HILL designed the world's highest density data center at 500 Watts/SF, providing availability, redundancy, and flexibility for future growth. We've managed the design and construction of high-density data centers and the core information technology servers, networks, and telecommunications infrastructure in advanced technology industries for 20 years.

We've delivered more than three million square feet of mission critical space (data center, computer rooms, and telecom facilities) throughout the world. Our core capabilities include: full spectrum project planning and design; fast-track delivery; broad experience with large industrial air, chilled water, and power systems; specialized air flow systems engineering; security/hardening experience; and data center standardization and consolidation.

Planning

Early planning assists clients with critical decisions and streamlines the design and construction process. It maps the efficient use of a project's resources, whether financial, physical, or cultural. Strategic scenarios explore the inevitable change experienced by an organization and provide a solid basis for informed design. Our planning can guide a project from early strategic thinking through multiphased construction.

Planning services include:

• Site Selection
• Strategic Planning
• Master Planning
• Regulatory Compliance
• Environmental Evaluation
• Computer Site Modeling

Architectural Design

Architectural design is the successful combination of architecture and engineering to meet the immediate and long-term needs of a client. We are able to assemble all the services necessary to take a building from start to finish under one roof.

Our architects focus on adding aesthetic, technical, and sustainable value to our clients' investments. We provide adaptable, cost-effective, context-sensitive architecture that engages people's imaginations.

Architectural design services include:

• Programming
• Building Design
• Landscape Design
• Sustainable Design
• Computer Visualization

Sustainable Building Design

High-performance building design, also called "sustainable" or "green," requires a precise integration of the architectural and engineered systems into a balanced design of sustainability and cost-effectiveness. IDC Architects has substantial experience leading comprehensive architectural and engineering teams in the design of high-performance buildings. Our work has generated patents for air quality systems and energy conserving equipment; it has been recognized with numerous design awards. We offer both the design and analytical services necessary for successful, high-performance solutions.

Sustainable design services include:

• Planning
• Site Selection, Restoration, & Conservation
• Sustainable Architectural Design
• Energy and Atmosphere Conservation
• Materials & Resources
• Indoor Environment
• Commissioning & Certification

Interior Design

Integrating the human aesthetic and ergonomic needs with the technical demands of science and technology distinguishes our work. We design interiors that foster performance and assist an organization's talent in realizing their potential.

Clients can "walk through" computer simulations of their interior spaces to review designs before they are built. Collaboration with our technical specialists in selecting sustainable and healthy materials assures a long-lived and safe interior. Our comprehensive design and management skill enables you to continue your core business while we focus on meeting your needs.

Interior Design services include:

• Space Planning Design
• Building Finishes & Fixtures
• Furniture Selection
• Lighting Design
• Signage Design
• Computer Visualization

Technical Services

Our technical services provide the analytical tools necessary to design advanced, environmentally responsible buildings. These tools range from computer simulation of high-efficiency passive and mechanical systems to computer analysis of natural and artificial lighting. Fast delivery of these services, combined with expert code and permitting experience, creates safe, comprehensive, and responsive solutions for time-driven clients.

Technical services include:

• Code Consultation
• Airflow Modeling
• 3D & 4D Modeling
• Lighting Analysis with Photometrics Rendering
• Hazardous Materials Handling
• Security & Threat Assessment
• Winery Experience & Capabilities

Project Services

IDC Architects has proven to many of the most successful enterprises in the modern economy that we can be trusted with managing their resources. Eighty percent of our business comes from repeat clients who know we can successfully optimize time, cost, and quality. Our project managers know the importance of "planning the work and working the plan."

A detailed and systematic work breakdown process is used to meet project milestones, budgets, and schedules. In-house controls systems furnish clients and design teams with timely cost and schedule data for project tracking and analysis. Our quality assurance program is an integral part of managing design. It is driven by a rigorous improvement attitude that is ingrained at all levels of our organization.

Project services include:

• Project Management
• Project Scheduling
• Cost Estimating
• Procurement
• Construction Administration
• Construction Management
• Commissioning

3D & 4D Modeling

IDC Architects utilizes a variety of visualization techniques that help our clients make decisions early in the design process. Massing models convey overall site strategies, building volumes, and views.

Detailed 3D photo-realistic models focus on understanding the space, impact of colors, materials, and lighting choices. They can be used in the permitting process, employee orientations, multimedia presentations, and interactive panorama animations.

4D modeling adds time-based events to our 3D models. It can be used to maximize and enhance the integration of technical systems. Airflow modeling resolves complex ventilation issues, and true photometric lighting analysis helps determine the best lighting conditions and choices.

Code Consultation

IDC Architects communicates the complex code requirements needed in high-performance buildings in understandable terms. Our ability to interpret the letter of the code and, more importantly, to communicate the intent of the code, helps us advise our clients of suitable options to meet their particular needs.

Where code requirements seem to conflict with the project requirements, or where practical difficulties make it impossible to meet the letter of the code, we provide innovative solutions. These solutions may be within the bounds of the codes or they may be alternative design strategies to meet the intent of the code. Before we propose an alternate strategy to our clients, the approach has to pass a rigorous in-house review: is it cost effective, does it have a good chance of being approved by the jurisdiction, and does it maintain or exceed the safety provisions envisioned by the code and our clients.

Our global success in getting prompt approvals from local authorities is a testimony to the skills of our staff. We are able to transcend language and cultural barriers, and earn the trust and respect of building officials worldwide.