Lake Highlands HS Freshman Center

Project Overview

The former Freshman Center building at Lake Highlands High School in Richardson ISD received a much-needed HVAC Upgrade. Now named “Building H”, the facility’s multiple performance issues were addressed by the RWB mechanical team.

Highlights

HVAC Renovation
K-12, Education
Budget: $6.6M

Project Team

Owner – Richardson ISD

Contractor – United Mechanical

HVAC Upgrade Enhances Learning Environment at Lake Highlands High School

Lake Highlands High School, part of Richardson ISD, serves over 2,700 students. Thanks to a major HVAC system upgrade in Building H—the school’s freshman center—ninth-grade students now benefit from a much more comfortable and energy-efficient learning environment.

RWB Consulting Engineers earned the 2021 Building Technology Award from ASHRAE Dallas for this project, recognizing our innovative design and performance-driven approach.

Addressing Aging Infrastructure with Modern Solutions

Built in 1997, the Building H satellite campus originally operated with aging HVAC equipment that could no longer meet the demands of a growing and evolving student population. Fortunately, a 2016 bond package approved by Richardson residents provided the necessary funding for critical improvements. This allowed the RWB team to conduct a comprehensive evaluation and resolve multiple long-standing performance issues.

Replacing Outdated Systems with Energy-Efficient Designs

RWB replaced outdated and inefficient systems with modern, energy-saving solutions. The building originally used a constant-volume chilled water system that served air handlers throughout the space. To improve efficiency and comfort, we re-zoned the building—shifting from an east/west configuration to a north/south layout.

As a result, the HVAC system now distributes loads more evenly across zones. By combining similar areas into unified zones, RWB successfully reduced the size of several air handling units (AHUs)—some by as much as 50%.

Additionally, our team installed eco-friendly equipment that operates on smart scheduling based on space utilization. We also maximized existing infrastructure by using the building’s original ductwork, avoiding costly demolition or reconstruction.

Key Performance Issues Resolved

The HVAC redesign also addressed several critical performance shortcomings, including:

Overworked AHUs caused by zero zone diversity
Inadequate or undersized heating systems
Poor airflow in the gymnasium
Inaccessible VAV terminal units in the auditorium
Complex and inefficient air distribution layouts
Unconditioned main stairwell
Isolated science labs with independent HVAC systems

Domestic Hot Water System Redesign

Beyond HVAC, the project tackled domestic water performance as well. The original design lacked a hot water return loop, which meant faucets often had no immediate hot water access. RWB reengineered the system to include a recirculating loop, ensuring that all faucets now receive hot water efficiently.

Measurable Results: Improved Performance and Efficiency

With RWB’s HVAC and MEP system redesign, the school now benefits from significantly improved indoor air quality, occupant comfort, and reduced mechanical load sizes.

Ultimately, the project not only upgraded performance but also lowered the overall energy demands of the building—delivering long-term value for Richardson ISD and its students.

HVAC Upgrade Enhances Learning Environment at Lake Highlands High School

Lake Highlands High School, part of Richardson ISD, serves over 2,700 students. Thanks to a major HVAC system upgrade in Building H—the school’s freshman center—ninth-grade students now benefit from a much more comfortable and energy-efficient learning environment.

RWB Consulting Engineers earned the 2021 Building Technology Award from ASHRAE Dallas for this project, recognizing our innovative design and performance-driven approach.

Lake Highlands High School, part of Richardson ISD, serves over 2,700 students. Thanks to a major HVAC system upgrade in Building H—the school’s freshman center—ninth-grade students now benefit from a much more comfortable and energy-efficient learning environment.

RWB Consulting Engineers earned the 2021 Building Technology Award from ASHRAE Dallas for this project, recognizing our innovative design and performance-driven approach.

ASHRAE Dallas Chapter Award Winner for Lake Highlands High School Freshman Center MEP Design

Principal Nathan Hart with ASHRAE Dallas Chapter Award for MEP Design

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Lake Highlands High School Before and After Chiller

Lake Highlands High School Ductwork in Gymnasium

Lake Highlands High School Freshman Center Pumps

Other Work at Lake Highlands High School

RWB has performed many additions, renovations and new construction projects. A few projects included updating all the HVAC equipment on the main school building and common outdoor areas. LHHS recently built their own Multipurpose Athletic Center which includes a weight room, locker room and an indoor 75-yard football field. Additionally, RWB performed an auditorium and kitchen renovation.

RWB’s Work in RISD

RWB has served Richardson ISD since 2004. We have completed work on 75% or more facilities in the district; from New Construction, Additions and Renovations and various types of MEP Upgrades.