Brace/Zimmerman Dormitory

Challenge

As part of Dartmouth’s bold decarbonization initiative, the project centered on revitalizing a historic dormitory, one that had long been burdened by outdated fixtures and inefficient mechanical systems. The challenge wasn’t just to modernize, but to completely transform the building into a high-performance living environment. This meant designing and installing HVAC systems that not only reduce energy consumption, but also significantly improve indoor air quality and thermal comfort. In doing so, the team successfully elevated the quality of life for students while also expanding the building’s capacity to accommodate additional residents, breathing new life into a campus landmark with sustainability at its core.

The transformation began with a full-scale demolition, clearing out outdated plumbing fixtures along with storm, waste, and vent piping, as well as domestic water lines and valves. On the mechanical side, aging exhaust systems, cabinet unit heaters, baseboard radiation, ductwork, air handlers, and fans were all carefully removed to make way for high-efficiency replacements. With a hard deadline looming, the return of students for the fall semester, every phase of the project had to move with urgency and precision. It was a race against time, and the team rose to the challenge to ensure the building was ready, reimagined, and revitalized for a new academic year.

Solution

In the basement, the transformation took shape with a complete overhaul of the mechanical systems. Brand new ductwork was installed, along with supply and exhaust fans, fire/smoke dampers, and fan coil units (FCUs) to deliver optimal airflow and temperature control. A full upgrade to the dryer venting system ensured improved efficiency and safety. At the heart of the system, a new energy recovery unit was assembled, designed to reclaim heat from exhaust air and use it to pre-condition fresh incoming air, significantly boosting energy performance. Insulated hot water supply and return piping was routed to power the new heating and cooling equipment, while a network of thermostats, control valves, and wiring was integrated throughout the building to bring smart, responsive climate control to every space.

Across the first through fourth floors, a comprehensive HVAC upgrade brought modern comfort and efficiency to every level. Dual-temperature fan coil units were installed to ensure consistent heating and cooling throughout the seasons. Fintube radiation was added for supplemental warmth, paired with new hot water supply and return piping to support the entire system.

A redesigned bathroom exhaust system improved ventilation, while a roof-mounted elevator exhaust fan was installed to enhance air circulation and overall building performance. The first-floor area included a commercial kitchen hood exhaust system with fire suppression. Every detail was engineered for comfort, efficiency, and a healthier indoor environment.

In September, students returned to a completely reimagined Zimmerman Hall—now offering a modern, comfortable living experience. The updated residence features a blend of single and double bedrooms, single-user gender-neutral bathrooms, and fully integrated heating and air conditioning systems with fresh air make-up for a healthier indoor environment. Convenience is built in, with laundry facilities, vending machines, and a new elevator providing easy access throughout the building. Each floor also boasts its own lounge and study area, creating inviting spaces for both relaxation and collaboration. Zimmerman Hall has been transformed into a vibrant, inclusive, and functional home away from home.

New sanitary waste and vent piping, along with domestic hot and cold water lines, were extended to serve every new plumbing fixture throughout the building. To ensure reliable and efficient hot water delivery, domestic hot water storage tanks were also installed, providing consistent performance to meet the needs of the upgraded facility.

Brace Commons has reopened as a vibrant, reimagined hub for student life. Flooded with natural light, the space now features flexible areas for studying, socializing, and gathering, designed to adapt to the needs of the community. A fully equipped community kitchen adds a warm, home-like touch, while the welcoming new entrance opens onto a beautifully landscaped and fully accessible courtyard, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. It’s more than a renovation, it’s a revitalized space built to inspire connection and comfort.

Each building has been thoughtfully designed to align with Dartmouth’s ambitious transition from oil fueled steam to a cutting edge geothermal system for hot water heating. This transformation is a key step toward the college’s bold decarbonization goals, set forth by the Dartmouth Climate Collaborative, a $500 million initiative aimed at eliminating campus carbon emissions by 2050. It’s not just about upgrading infrastructure, it’s about building a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Andres, Zimmerman, and Brace have been designed and built to meet the rigorous standards of LEED Gold certification, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability, occupant health, and safety. From energy efficiency to indoor air quality, these buildings set a high bar for environmentally responsible and student-centered design.

LEED Gold Certification is part of the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system, which is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. LEED certification provides a framework for creating healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings.