Carpenter Paper Building Redevelopment
Originally built in the 1920s as a warehouse, the Carpenter Paper building was transformed into a modern, multi-tenant office space while preserving its historic character. Baker Group delivered a full design-build solution for HVAC and building automation systems that supports a diverse mix of tenants including a law firm, engineering firm, dental office, event planner, and insurance agency.
A key milestone in the project was the installation of a 120-ton rooftop unit (RTU), which serves as the backbone of the building’s HVAC system. Strategically set using the existing structure for support, the RTU distributes air throughout all levels of the building, an effort that required detailed planning and coordination.
The project required adaptive engineering to work within strict historic constraints. All MEP systems were installed within a tight 21-inch underfloor interstitial space, rather than the traditional ceiling layouts. Baker Group led the design and coordination of ductwork, piping, and electrical systems within this limited space, using the existing stairwell for vertical distribution and integrating more than 180 floor diffusers for effective air distribution.
A centralized building automation system unified the HVAC approach across all floors, balancing varying tenant needs through a combination of variable air volume (VAV) systems, underfloor air distribution, and precise control of airflow, temperature, and pressure. This approach allowed the system to adapt to different occupancy types while maintaining consistent comfort throughout the building.
Working alongside multiple architects, contractors, and stakeholders, Baker Group played a key role in coordinating schedules and driving progress across the project. The result is a revitalized historical building that seamlessly blends preservation with modern performance, delivering long-term value and flexibility for its tenants.
Following the transformation, Baker Group continues to support the facility through its preventive maintenance program, with a proactive lifecycle-focused approach, ensuring building systems continue to operate at peak performance while optimizing efficiency, reliability, and long-term asset value for both ownership and tenants. With the added complexity of a historic structure and highly customized systems, our team brings the expertise needed to manage performance proactively, quickly address challenges, and optimize building operations.
Rooftop Unit Install