Wise Construction teamed with MPM Architecture, Thornton Tomasetti, and BR+A Consulting Engineers to transform the Frumkin and Plummer Labs inside Boston University’s Mechanical Engineering Building. Located along Commonwealth Avenue at a highly active campus intersection, the project required careful coordination to deliver both interior upgrades and major building infrastructure improvements while maintaining ongoing academic operations.
The third-floor renovation encompassed approximately 3,500 SF and introduced two faculty labs, a shared lab, and a new graduate computer room. Supporting these spaces, the project included significant rooftop upgrades, including new air handling units, exhaust fans, chillers, and expanded ductwork to accommodate the building’s growing laboratory capabilities.
One of the project’s most significant challenges was the rooftop’s complex scope. A substantial amount of new ductwork needed to be routed around existing rooftop equipment and supported by new structural steel secured to the deck. Through detailed 3D modeling by Wise’s VDC team and a delegated design approach, Wise separated the structural steel scope and worked directly with a structural engineer to expedite design and installation. This strategy allowed the team to efficiently coordinate around existing conditions and maintain progress without delays.
Major milestones pertaining to the roof also included multiple crane picks, the largest being the installation of a 30-foot, 14,000-pound AHU, along with associated exhaust fans, ductwork, and mechanical components. To safely complete this operation, the team coordinated with Boston University and Brookline Police for a full-day closure of Saint Mary’s Street. With support from Wise’s self-performing team guiding pedestrian traffic, Marr Companies’ 135-ton crane and multiple flatbed trailers operated efficiently within the constrained urban environment to complete the installation. Read more here.
Maintaining continuous building operations throughout construction was critical. The building’s HVAC systems needed to remain functional to support active labs and classrooms, requiring a highly coordinated sequencing plan. Wise engaged MEP Superintendent Roland Sampson early in preconstruction to develop a detailed phasing strategy. The plan provided clear direction for shutdowns, tie-ins, and crane activities, enabling full alignment across all trade partners and ensuring the project progressed without disruption to ongoing campus activities. Because many of these activities took place outdoors during ‘heating season’, the work required off-hours coordination to minimize downtime and maintain productivity despite changing weather.
“Close collaboration with Boston University’s stakeholders played a key role in the project’s success”, says Brian Wyer, Superintendent. “Their responsiveness, paired with the Architect’s extensive building knowledge, allowed us to navigate unforeseen conditions and execute critical work efficiently.”
Through early planning, strong trade partner coordination, and a clear understanding of the challenges associated with working in an occupied environment, the team successfully delivered upgraded labs and infrastructure that support Boston University’s continued growth in engineering education and research.
Thank you:
Client: Boston University
Architect: MPM Architecture
Structural Engineer: Thornton Tomasetti
MEP/FP Engineer: BR+A Consulting Engineers
Project Team:
Brian Wyer
Neil Slyva
Brian Vatelle
Ryan Annaccone
Roland Sampson
Photography:
Richard Gayle Photography
