Case Study: Smithsonian Institution achieves LEED Gold certification with Southland Industries

Smithsonian Institution saves months on NMAAHC with Southland Industries

The Smithsonian Institution required a complex mechanical system for its new National Museum of African American History and Culture on the National Mall, all while facing significant budget constraints. Southland Industries was engaged through a design-assist delivery method to provide comprehensive mechanical services including sheet metal, HVAC piping, plumbing, and controls for the 332,000-square-foot facility.

Southland Industries implemented cost-cutting solutions, such as resizing the chiller plant and relocating a cooling tower to realize substantial savings. The team enhanced safety and decreased the project schedule by using rigging to install duct risers and by heavily utilizing prefabrication, which reduced the schedule by several months. As a result, the museum achieved LEED Gold certification and stands as the world's largest museum dedicated to African American history and culture.

Smithsonian Institution