Built for Precision
Air distribution solutions for advanced campus research
The CHAP facility at CU Boulder is designed to support advanced research in chemistry, applied mathematics, and emerging quantum science—programs that require tightly controlled indoor environments and significant air movement.
At the same time, the university set ambitious goals:
- One of the most energy-efficient lab buildings on campus
- Alignment with future low-temperature hot water systems
- Support for evolving research needs over time
This created a fundamental challenge:
How do you deliver coordinated air distribution strategies capable of supporting demanding research environments while aligning with the university’s broader efficiency goals?
APC supported the project team in delivering air handling solutions engineered to meet both performance and efficiency demands.
The approach focused on:
- Coordinated air distribution strategies for laboratory environments
- Support for the project’s broader energy and infrastructure goals
- Integration within tight mechanical and architectural constraints
- Collaboration with engineering and construction teams throughout phased implementation
The project reflects the level of coordination and precision required to support advanced research environments within an active campus setting.
- Project Type New Construction (Research Facility)
- Building Size ~139,000 SF
- Project Budget ~$175M
- Use Chemistry, Applied Math, Quantum Research Labs
- System Focus High-performance lab ventilation
- Energy Strategy Low-temp hot water ready
