The University of South Carolina (USC) Idea Center project comprised a 44,000-square-foot upfit across three levels of Gateway 737, an 11-story upscale student living facility next to Colonial Life Arena in the Vista. Intended for hosting both academic and community programming, the three-level collaboration hub for innovation and entrepreneurship offers two 400-seat flex spaces, meeting rooms, a craft room, and event space.

Major HVAC equipment includes (1) 140-ton air cooled chiller; (3) air handling units – 19,000, 17,000 CFM and 4,000 CFM, respectively; and (3) VRV split heat pumps, as well as the necessary pumps, fans, piping and ductwork required by the system. Blackstone fabricated the air distribution ductwork at our in-house shop. Comfort is maintained by (30) VAV boxes of varying sizes and capacities.

The Idea Center’s design called for exposed ductwork and piping in some areas of the space. Specialty items included linear air diffusers, custom-built by Blackstone. Positioned at the baffle ceilings, the air diffusers were installed in close coordination with the other trades. Blackstone was responsible for the HVAC controls.

The project was completed on an accelerated schedule to meet occupancy requirements for the upcoming Fall semester.