Courtney Melvin | Construction
Adviser: Mr. Ray Sowers
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Thesis Proposal
Thesis Proposal 12/7/18
Revised Thesis Proposal 1/14/19
Analysis 1: Top-down Turnover
Originally, The Nova had a six phased turnover beginning with the garage, amenity spaces, and floors one through four. This turnover allows the owner to start making revenue on the building before it is completely finished. I am proposing to have a top-down turnover instead to analyze whether finishing the higher priced units first will allow the owner to make more money faster. I plan to evaluate the original plan to the alternative by the cost to accelerate work on upper floors, the profit made before the building is completely turned over, and whether the end schedule is affected.
Analysis 2: View Dynamic Glass Alternative
View Dynamic Glass is already implemented in the first and third floors on the east facade of the building. This analysis proposes a value engineering option of replacing this glass with regular curtain wall and motorized shades. The upfront, life cycle, and maintenance costs of these options will be compared to determine which system would best fit in this project.
Analysis 3: Prefabrication
Since the drawings were not quite completed until construction began, there were not many options to use as prefabrication. Prefabrication can be used to accelerate a project schedule, reduce cost, and increase the safety of a job. This analysis proposes to prefabricate the cold-formed metal framing and drywall for the apartment and hallway walls. This would accelerate the project schedule and allow the owner to rent the apartments sooner. This analysis will compare the schedule and cost savings prefabricated walls will have on the project.
Analysis 4: Big Data
Big Data implementation is on the rise in most industries, but the construction industry has been lagging behind for years. Big Data can help a company save money, make better business decisions, and improve job site safety. This analysis will survey industry professionals to determine the current uses of Big Data and how Big Data can be more widely used throughout the construction industry. The results will be used to determine whether there is a direct correlation between different factors and Big Data usage.
Breadth Proposal
Mechanical Breadth
By analyzing the properties of Dynamic View Glass present on the West side of the building, I will determine whether this tint changing glass reduces heating and cooling costs throughout the year. I will achieve this by comparing the annual energy cost to a typical curtain wall system. This analysis will include solar heat gain/loss incurred throughout the year.
Acoustical Breadth
An analysis of the wall assemblies between units and in the corridors will be made to determine what STC values they currently have and if installing an acoustically sound drywall can improve these values. I will evaluate the cost difference as well to see if these options can be installed using the money saved from implementing the prefabricated system.