S3DA completed the MEP and Structural design for Vila Monte Care Facility. The project scope includes complete mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design, Title 24 compliance, and detailed structural analysis. Structural deliverables encompass load calculations, framing plans, shear wall layouts, and comprehensive building section views. We look forward to contributing our expertise to ensure the successful completion of this facility.

Design Challenges:

The main challenge was the building’s split-level design, which created different subfloor elevations. This resulted in two separate diaphragm configurations within a single building. The complexity was increased by shear walls that were shared between both diaphragms, creating unique load transfer paths that required a highly detailed and careful analysis.

The enlarged kitchen plan suggest tight spatial configurations, challenging MEP designers to integrate ductwork, piping, and electrical conduits without compromising architectural aesthetics or functionality.

The second-floor occupancy load indicates high occupant density, requiring robust HVAC and electrical systems to handle peak loads while maintaining energy efficiency.

S3DA Solutions:

Our team conducted a single, unified building analysis that precisely modeled both diaphragm configurations at once. This holistic approach ensured that all lateral loads were distributed correctly through the shared structural elements. To manage the varied uplift forces caused by the split-level design, we used a Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis to design a custom stepped foundation, ensuring stability and efficiency.

Implemented MEP designs compliant with Title 24 energy standards and OSHPD requirements, ensuring proper ventilation rates, medical-grade electrical systems, and plumbing for accessibility.

We coordinated MEP systems with healthcare-specific requirements, such as medical gas lines or emergency power for life-safety systems.

Utilized compact HVAC units and modular plumbing systems to fit within confined spaces, as inferred from the enlarged kitchen plan and building.

Specified energy-efficient lighting and power systems with load-shedding capabilities to handle peak electrical demands.

Conducted regular coordination meetings with HGCI and other stakeholders to resolve conflicts early in the design phase.

Key Design Features:

Unified Diaphragm Analysis : A single, comprehensive model was used to analyze the complex interaction between the two different diaphragm levels, ensuring accurate load distribution.

Finite Element Foundation Design: Advanced FEM analysis produced a highly optimized stepped foundation, perfectly accommodating the different uplift conditions across the building’s footprint.

Complex Wood Frame Engineering: The design showcased expertise in adapting wood-frame construction to accommodate non-uniform floor plans and elevations.

Specified LED lighting with occupancy sensors for both interior and site lighting to minimize energy use.

Incorporated high-efficiency HVAC systems with energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) to reduce energy consumption while maintaining indoor air quality.

Used prefabricated MEP components to streamline installation and reduce on-site construction time.

Included provisions for emergency power systems to ensure the uninterrupted operation of critical care areas.