AUGUST 7, 2012--Merging the building industry’s latest technology with one of the most famous stories in American history, Suffolk Construction recently completed construction of the new $27 million Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum in time for its grand opening ceremony.
Suffolk leveraged its “build smart” approach and state-of-the-art technologies to meet numerous challenges on this 18,700-sf project. One of the most significant challenges was finding a way to house the extensive mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems in the unusually tight confines of the museum’s attic space. To address this challenge, Suffolk implemented virtual models and BIM early in the planning process to re-work the layout of the MEP systems to ensure they would fit in the allotted space. This innovative solution allowed the team to prefabricate much of the MEP components off site, allowing for a more efficient installation on this very tight building site.
The two-story Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, designed by Margulies Perruzzi Architects, sits on a floating barge with a Tavern/Tea Room on the top floor. The barge is surrounded by two historic replica ships, with a third ship expected to be added in 2014. The adjacent pier building contains a retail store, meeting rooms and offices. +
Related Stories
Architects | Jul 7, 2022
Page acquires AE giant EYP to form 1,300-person international design firm
The combined firm will “be able to invest in research and thought leadership to co-create with our clients,” stated Page CEO Thomas McCarthy.
Building Team | Jul 7, 2022
Report explores improving architect/contractor relationship
A new study by the American Institute of Architects and the Associated General Contractors of America focuses on improving the relationship between architects and contractors.
Airports | Jul 7, 2022
Love at first flight: The power of first impressions in airports
As architects, how we design a terminal and choreograph the passenger experience can stir up strong feelings.
Building Team | Jul 7, 2022
Amenity-rich rental property in Chicago includes seven-story atrium with vertical landscaping
The recently opened 198-unit Optima Lakeview luxury rental apartment building in Chicago is bursting with amenities such as the region’s first year-round rooftop pool, contact-free in-home package delivery, housekeeping services, on-site room service, fitness programming, and a virtual personal assistant.
Multifamily Housing | Jul 6, 2022
The power of contextual housing development
Creating urban villages and vibrant communities starts with a better understanding of place, writes LPA's Matthew Porreca.
Building Team | Jul 6, 2022
Buro Happold selects Jennifer Price for top role, US Managing Director
Buro Happold, a world-class practice of 2,200 engineers and consultants, has announced the appointment of Seattle-based Jennifer Price as US Managing Director and Partner.
University Buildings | Jul 6, 2022
Wenzhou-Kean University opens a campus building that bridges China’s past and future
After pandemic-related stops and starts, Wenzhou-Kean University’s Ge Hekai Hall has finally begun to see full occupancy.
Security and Life Safety | Jul 5, 2022
What AEC firms should look for in a cybersecurity partner
When looking for expert partners in cybersecurity, AEC firms will find quite a lot of companies claiming to be at the forefront of modern threats. Here are five key points to look for when choosing a cybersecurity firm.
Performing Arts Centers | Jul 5, 2022
Tour the new Patricia Reser Center for the Arts in Oregon
This month, the community of Beaverton, Oregon, welcomed a new haven for artistic expression with the opening of Patricia Reser Center for the Arts (The Reser).
Building Team | Jul 5, 2022
Dallas’ Fair Park, home to the State Fair of Texas, will place a park atop a new parking garage
A registered National Historic Landmark, Fair Park is the 227-acre home to the Texas State Fair and various cultural institutions in Dallas, Tex.
