After a decade, it was time for Cousins Properties to replace the legacy building automation platform in the 50-story 3344 Peachtree high-rise building in the heart of Buckhead, Atlanta’s uptown business district. McKenney’s was chosen as the primary solution provider—managing the upgrade to a state-of-the-art, energy-efficient Tridium® N4 platform and interface. McKenney’s designed a comprehensive new building management system (BMS), including replacements and upgrades for network and central plant equipment. The team strategized with Cousin Properties engineers to determine which technology advances could best enhance existing equipment. The focus of the discussion centered around ways to implement new control strategies and install software and equipment without disrupting the day-to-day business operations of the tenants.

The McKenney’s team collaborated with key stakeholders to discuss expectations for sequences, graphics, trends, alarms and more. They wanted to be able to adapt to sudden changes, minimize scope creep, reduce delays and avoid disturbances.

Through the planning and pre-execution phase, a thorough assessment of the network and central plant was conducted resulting in a highly accurate design document for the installation team—reducing the risk of downtime. New vector scaling graphics were used for a user-friendly mobile environment, allowing engineers to use iPads to troubleshoot and monitor BMS controls and equipment quickly from anywhere and at any given time.

To simplify ongoing monitoring and management of the system, the McKenney’s team integrated control points throughout the new BMS. Now, technicians and key building personnel analyze performance and proactively manage and service the platform from virtually anywhere.

The property owners are happy with the results. The building is more energy efficient, which has significantly reduced operating costs and improved equipment reliability.

THE CHALLENGE

• Replace and re-sequence central plant controls without interrupting operations
• Maintain monitoring and control functions during network upgrades
• Collaborate with multiple subcontractors

THE SOLUTION

• Conducted analysis and assessment of network and central plant
• Designed a comprehensive BMS system that included replacements and upgrades for central plant and network equipment.

THE RESULTS

• Achieved operational and energy cost savings
• Completed project to customer satisfaction