University of Virginia's Olympic Sports

Location

Charlottesville, VA

General Contractor

Barton Malow

Size

95,262 sq. ft.

Scope

Design Electric completed the full electrical and lighting package for the new Harrison Family Olympic Sports Center, part of UVA’s expansion connecting to the McCue Center. The scope included lighting, power distribution, fire alarm, and inverter systems, as well as electrical work for support areas and hydrotherapy spaces.

Innovative Approaches

Through the Design Assist process, Design Electric modeled the electrical systems in BIM and used Trimble technology for accurate layout of conduit and hanger points. We prefabricated several pre-hung racks for both power and data, allowing for efficient installation and consistent results across multiple areas.

Project Features & Solutions

In the hydrotherapy and sports medicine areas, our team installed power and auxiliary systems for specialized equipment that required precise coordination with other trades. We coordinated vendor documents and worked closely with the specialty subcontractors, MEP subcontractors, and the General Contractor.  

Challenges & Coordination

The project was completed ahead of schedule despite several major scheduling impacts. Design Electric assisted the general contractor with resequencing work to maintain progress and resolve conflicts. During demolition, we addressed existing electrical conditions and adjusted our sequencing to keep construction moving while corrections were made.

University of Virginia Football Operations

Photo Credit | Halkin | Mason Photography 

Location

Charlottesville, VA

General Contractor

Barton Malow

Size

90,368 sq. ft.

Scope

From October 2022 to May 2024, Design Electric successfully completed the electrical work for a state-of-the-art 90,368-square-foot college football facility. This new construction project served as a multifunctional space for football players, providing areas for training, injury rehabilitation, and recovery. The facility featured therapeutic pools, separate team rooms, and a unique "Gatorade Bar" where athletes could access nutrient-rich drinks to aid in recovery. Additional amenities included locker rooms, a dining hall, and recreation spaces, such as a student lounge with a pool table. This impressive facility will support the recruitment of talented athletes. The primary goal for the owner and general contractor was to ensure the facility was completed on time and ready for the incoming players. Meeting this tight deadline required precise scheduling and diligent execution.

Problem Solving and Innovation

One of the most challenging aspects of the project was the lighting system, which involved custom fixtures, some of which were sourced from overseas. The lighting controls were highly complex, particularly in the strength and conditioning rooms, where lights could cycle through different colors and synchronize with music. Our long-standing relationships with suppliers ensured timely delivery and precise installation of these fixtures. Our superintendent’s proactive review of control drawings helped identify potential issues before they impacted the project, resulting in smoother execution.

Constant Communication

Communication was key to keeping the project on schedule. Daily foreman meetings, regular check-ins with project managers, and proactive commissioning efforts ensured smooth coordination between all parties involved. By addressing equipment and system checks early on, we avoided last-minute surprises and completed the project without unnecessary delays. This football facility project exemplified Design Electric’s commitment to quality, safety, and innovation, delivering a cutting-edge space for athletes to train, recover, and thrive.

Quality Control and Craftsmanship

Design Electric implemented a thorough quality control process, utilizing multiple levels of inspections to ensure every installation adhered to our high standards. This dedication to precision and excellence was in perfect harmony with the general contractor’s approach, fostering a strong, collaborative partnership throughout the project.

Complex Schedules and Collaboration

Maintaining the project schedule was essential, given the complexity of various phases. Our team leveraged Design Electric’s Design Assist capabilities, proactively identifying potential issues early in the design process to prevent delays and reduce costs. By collaborating closely with architects, engineers, and the design team, we ensured compliance with local codes and secured long-lead items to keep the project on track. Our use of advanced BIM and VDC tools, including AutoCAD Revit, eVolve and Navisworks, helped us detect clashes and resolve conflicts before construction began. This integrated approach kept the project moving smoothly and on schedule.

Supplier Coordination

Our supplier’s attention to detail was instrumental in the project’s success. When delivering fixtures, they provided all necessary components, including cables and canopies, organized by room. This meticulous approach minimized delays and ensured that each lighting installation was completed efficiently.