University of San Diego Student Life Pavillion  

Case study
Education

University of San Diego Student Life Pavillion

SC Engineers was selected by University of San Diego to be the Mechanical Engineer of Record for the renovation of their existing 75,000 SF Hahn University Center and the addition of a 76,000 SF Student Life Pavilion. The project enhanced student and faculty experiences while integrating sustainable design strategies to support campus-wide environmental goals.

Customer Needs

To address the University of San Diego’s growing student population, the project focused on several key objectives:

  • Create functional, multipurpose spaces for student and faculty engagement.
  • Incorporate energy-efficient and eco-friendly design strategies.
  • Provide diverse amenities to meet student and faculty needs, including dining, meeting, recreation, and study areas.

Key Strategies Implemented

To meet the requirements of this project, SC Engineers implemented an innovative framework to ensure student comfort and energy efficiency:

  • Designed a hybrid ventilation system for upper-level spaces to enhance airflow and support LEED Gold Certification.
  • Integrated hydronic air handling units connected to the campus chilled water loop to improve energy performance.
  • Delivered kitchen ventilation, plumbing, and mechanical systems to support diverse functions—including a full-service kitchen, student lounge, and rooftop green space.
  • Converted existing spaces in the Hahn University Center to better serve modern campus needs, including lounges and meeting areas. 

MEP Contracting Services
Impact
Location
San Diego, CA
project size
151,000 SF
Year Completed
Awards
Energy Savings

LEED Gold Certification

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