Case Study: Building Management System for Warner Bros. Discovery
WBD Headquarters
230 Park Avenue South, NYC
Project Overview
In 2020, T.M. Bier & Associates (TMBA) embarked on a comprehensive Building Management System (BMS) project for Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) at their headquarters located at 230 Park Avenue South, New York City. The project, initially estimated to last 4-5 months, spanned over two years due to unforeseen complications caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain disruptions. Despite these challenges, TMBA successfully delivered an advanced BMS that met the evolving needs of WBD.
Project Background
TMBA's involvement with WBD began just before the COVID-19 shutdowns, marking the start of a uniquely complicated project. The building, initially occupied by multiple tenants, eventually became fully occupied by WBD. The project began with the main IT room and rooftop chiller and expanded to include floors 4 through 13, and eventually the entire building, encompassing two ERVs per floor, mechanical rooms, and simultaneous retrofitting of multiple floors.
Challenges and Solutions
The project faced numerous challenges, including managing the coordination among two general contractors, three mechanical contractors, and three electricians. The COVID-19 pandemic further complicated logistics, with site closures and restricted access to employee elevators for deliveries.
One significant challenge was the installation of a multistack chiller on the building’s roof. TMBA’s expert programmers and technicians resolved an issue where the pumps were "hunting"—rapidly changing speeds—through meticulous data analysis and collaboration with Multistack.
BMS Integration and Custom Solutions
A notable aspect of the project was the integration of the BMS with the filming studios for Food Network "Kitchen Studios" located in the cellar and on the first three floors. This integration required custom BMS solutions to manage cooking exhaust systems and maintain air quality.
The BMS also incorporated a Lutron lighting system, utilizing motion detectors for lighting control. This system was designed to maintain unoccupied rooms at 78 degrees and adjust to 72 degrees when occupied, enhancing the building's energy efficiency through synchronized lighting and HVAC controls.
Innovative Approaches
TMBA developed a balancing app to work with the mechanical contractor in order to reduce onsite labor time and costs. TMBA also developed a custom app for the client to log into the BMS through their smartphones.
Furthermore, a Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) system was added on all floors with the VAVs to provide supplemental air when the building’s base BMS wasn’t sufficient, catering to occupants’ preferences for cooler environments.
Project Implementation and Client Collaboration
The project was designed by an engineering firm, with TMBA responsible for its implementation. TMBA customized graphics for end users and maintained regular meetings with the client to discuss timelines and goals. WBD presented a wishlist of desired BMS modifications, and TMBA worked diligently to fulfill these requests.
WBD’s engineering team, consisting of one chief engineer and three supporting engineers, received email notifications for any BMS alarms, ensuring prompt response and maintenance.
Project Outcome and Client Satisfaction
Upon completion, the client expressed high satisfaction with the project outcomes. The BMS operated at peak efficiency, fulfilling WBD's requirements and enhancing the building's overall management capabilities. TMBA now maintains a BMS service contract with WBD, ensuring continued support and optimal performance of the system.
Conclusion
The BMS project for Warner Bros. Discovery at 230 Park Avenue South stands as a testament to TMBA's expertise in delivering complex, large-scale building management solutions. Despite the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, TMBA's innovative approaches and commitment to client satisfaction ensured the project's success, solidifying a strong partnership with WBD for future endeavors.
