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MnANG Squadron Operations Building
Duluth, Minnesota
Minnesota Air National Guard (MnANG)
The Squadron Operations building is the command and training center for flight crews of F-16 aircraft at the Duluth ANG base. It is also the front door through which visiting dignitaries who fly into the base enter the city. These important functions require a secure, high-tech facility that is impressive, without appearing wasteful or extravagant. The building was outdated, both technologically and functionally.
A $2.4 million demolition and remodel enabled the space to become more functional. LHB provided architecture, interior design, structural engineering, and electrical engineering design services.
Elements of the design included:
demolition and rebuilding of all non-structural elements,
interior build-out, including walls, floors, ceilings,
removal and replacement of interior electrical, HVAC, plumbing and lighting systems, as well as interior plumbing fixtures and electrical service.
Provisions were made to accommodate
an independent building heating plant (disconnected from central plant),
a squadron conference center to seat 100-plus occupants,
upgraded communication and technology wiring for workstations,
interior partitions and furniture.
Communications updates included:
Pre-wired workstations with audio sound masking mechanisms used in contiguous open administrative areas occupying 1000 sq ft or more.
Cable trays in hallways with one communications outlet per 50 sq ft of net floor area.
Rehabilitation included
code updates,
force protection,
removal of hazardous materials,
compliance with the base master plan,
acoustical isolation from flight line noise
male and female flight crew facilities,
a squadron conference center,
fitness center,
provision for efficient workflow.
Results of the redesign included reconfigured space that maximizes efficiency; mechanical, electrical and technological updates that bring the facility into the future helping to optimize military operations; and sustainable design elements that will help conserve energy.
Additionally, Squadron Operations’ new two-story, glass entryway welcomes visitors with the main doors leading to the adjoining taxiway for ease of departures and arrivals of dignitaries and pilots.
See Winter 2004 Perspectives on how the design of this facility accomplished its mission of security, work flow, space, and energy efficiencies.
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