Columbia University
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Columbia University partnered with Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) to design and construct a new eight-story all-electric building that will house biomedical research and lab facilities.
The building will connect to the Columbia University School of Nursing and Russ Berrie Medical Science Pavilion, creating a unified academic and research facility.
Existing Conditions 3D laser scanned approximately 75,000 square feet of the Russ Berrie Medical Science Pavilion to provide accurate documentation for the planned renovation and expansion.
Deliverables included laser scan point cloud data, floor plans, exterior elevations, MEP documentation, a 2D roof plan, and a 3D BIM model.
The building was designed by KPF to use significantly less energy than similar buildings, meeting Local Law 97 requirements and the goals set by Columbia University’s 2030 greenhouse gas reduction commitments.
In its second partnership with Columbia University, Existing Conditions conducted a high-resolution LiDAR scan of the Low Memorial Library to document its intricate architectural details.
This effort not only captured the building’s historical features with precision, it also offered architecture students hands-on experience with 3D laser scanning technology, enhancing their understanding of digital documentation for architectural preservation and design.
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Case Study: 3D Laser Scanning Columbia University Russ Berrie Medical Science Pavilion & Low Memorial Library
This case study highlights Existing Conditions' collaboration with Columbia University, providing accurate as-built documentation for the following buildings: Russ Berrie Medical Science Pavilion and Low Memorial Library.
Case Study: Columbia University Russ Berrie Medical Science Pavillion
Columbia University, in collaboration with Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), commissioned Existing Conditions to 3D laser scan approximately 75,000 square feet of The Russ Berrie Medical Science Pavilion in Washington Heights, NYC.
The project required accurate 2D drawings and 3D model to support the planned renovation and expansion. Deliverables included laser scan point cloud data, floor plans, exterior elevations, MEP documentation, 2D roof plans, and 3D BIM model.
Columbia University’s new all-electric research building at the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons is designed to be 30% more energy-efficient than current standards. It uses electric heat pumps, energy recovery systems, and a high-performance facade to eliminate fossil fuels. These features support New York’s Local Law 97, which requires large buildings to reduce emissions by 40% by 2030 and 80% by 2050, compared to 2005 levels. Failure to comply with the law results in financial penalties, motivating Columbia University to prioritize energy efficiency and clean energy solutions.
Sustainable Building Design Features of the Vagelos Innovation Laboratories
- Electrification: The building eliminates fossil fuel infrastructure, utilizing electric air source heat pumps for heating and cooling.
- Energy Efficiency: Air-side energy recovery systems capture and reuse waste heat, reducing total energy consumption.
- High-Performance Facade: Optimized window-to-wall ratio, strategic exterior shading, and louver systems to minimize solar heat gain and glare.
- Biophilic Design: Green walls, renewable materials, and optimized daylight access enhance occupant well-being.
- Collaborative Spaces: Open staircases, corner lounges, and shared research areas foster connectivity among scientists.
Significance of the Project
The Vagelos Innovation Laboratories, located on Columbia University Irving Medical Center’s campus, will provide 55,000 square feet of state-of-the-art laboratory space. It is the first fully electrified, university-owned laboratory building in New York City. The facility exemplifies Columbia’s commitment to sustainability, supporting Columbia University’s 2030 greenhouse gas reduction commitments and New York City’s carbon neutrality goals by 2050. Additionally, the building connects the Columbia University School of Nursing and Russ Berrie Medical Science Pavilion, creating a unified academic and research facility.
Sustainable Design Strategies
By adhering to Local Law 97 and incorporating cutting-edge sustainable design strategies, the Vagelos Innovation Laboratories will set a new standard for energy-efficient research facilities. The project exemplifies how advanced technology, and forward-thinking design can create a high-performance, environmentally responsible academic building.
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Download eBook: Columbia University Russ Berrie Medical Science Pavillion
Case Study: Columbia University Low Memorial Library
Existing Conditions conducted a high-resolution LiDAR scan of Columbia University’s Low Memorial Library as part of a summer workshop. The objective was to document the building’s intricate architectural details while providing students with practical experience in 3D laser scanning technology.
The scanning process utilized high-resolution LiDAR scanning equipment to capture high-density point clouds, which included fine architectural details and environmental factors such as dust accumulation. The approach involved multiple scans from various angles, ensuring full coverage and precision in the data collection. This methodology provided a thorough and accurate digital record of the building’s historic facade.
The LiDAR scan revealed subtle features, such as the accumulation of dust particles over time, which offered new insights for ongoing research on facade maintenance. Additionally, the workshop included a technical session focused on data processing, where students had the opportunity to analyze the point cloud. This hands-on experience allowed them to understand the real-world applications of 3D scanning in heritage preservation.
This project demonstrated the effectiveness of LiDAR technology in historic documentation and research applications. By engaging with the students, the Existing Conditions team contributed to the practical understanding of 3D laser scanning for architectural conservation and environmental analysis.
3D Laser Scanning Academic Campuses
Existing Conditions specializes in capturing precise as-built data for universities, colleges, campuses, and schools, supporting site renovations and upgrades. Our 3D laser scanning services document architectural, structural, and MEP system layouts with 2-6 millimeter accuracy, providing the necessary data to coordinate construction plans, reduce change orders, and save time.
We use Leica survey-grade laser scanners to capture existing conditions in the form of point clouds, which our in-house Process Team transforms into 2D CAD drawings, 3D BIM models, mesh models, TruViews, and 3D virtual tours, tailored to any project’s needs.
With expertise spanning engineering, architecture, information technology, and construction, Existing Conditions delivers comprehensive 3D laser scanning solutions that streamline design and renovation processes. Our extensive experience includes scanning academic buildings like libraries, lecture halls, and laboratories, as well as residential buildings like dormitories and dining halls, along with student and administrative facilities, ensuring accurate and efficient project execution.
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