E+I, a leading electrical switchgear and bus duct manufactuer based in Ireland teamed with Context Design Group to complete a major Production & Office support expansion. After purchasing an existing 40,000 s.f. facility, this expansion almost tripled their overall size. As their first venture into manufacturing in the U.S., this facility is critically important to the corporation’s growth with major domestic clients. CDG provided the expertise to develop a facility design meeting their strict requirements without disturbing their existing process.
The expansion footprint was maximized within the site boundaries while allocating space for a perimeter access road. Additional parking along with a new dedicated secure truck entry were managed through the site design process. Due to the site adjacency to a Corps of Engineers lake property, very careful attention was necessary related to all stormwater infrastructure.
The Manufacturing space is prepared for a bridge crane addition, with all necessary structural support in place. CDG also coordinated for the Owner’s own electrical equipment to be utilized for the gear and bus duct installation. Due to unknown future production needs, the design team developed a mechanical layout that allows for additional cooling in stages as the demand increases.
The Office support area houses a cafeteria, locker rooms, along with an open office with raised access flooring in order to meet the changing needs of the Owner over time. A second level Mezzanine with stair and elevator access is also in place for a future Office build-out. The necessary infrastructure being in place now will allow the Owner to efficiently upfit this area in the future with minimal effect on their operations in the adjacent Manufacturing area. With extremely sensitive electrical equipment being produced nearby, a future major construction disturbance would not be possible.
CDG’s planning with the Owner provides flexible and efficient spaces with future growth capability that will not adversely affect the company’s sensitive processes during future activities.