“Four Rounds” Pavilion

The new pavilion for the stunning “Four Rounds: Equal Weight, Unequal Measure” sculpture by Richard Serra required an unusual approach to the heating and cooling effects: a “systemless” design. Working closely with the architect, Thomas Phifer and Partners, Mueller’s engineers modeled the building loads and calculated the cooling effects of natural convective air currents that flow in from the entrance, up through the space, and out through the skylight openings at the roof level. Heat rises and exits through the skylight openings while fresh air is pulled in at the pavilion’s base, creating a natural means of cooling and ventilating the space.

The design assessed the thermal mass of the cast-in-place concrete structure and the earth itself, as the pavilion is partially built into the site’s grade. Calculations reviewed several skylight glass options that would minimize heat gain during the summer while allowing for ample natural light to eliminate the need for electric lights. Enough sunshine penetrates the space to add heat during the winter, with inconspicuous temperature sensors monitoring conditions through the museum’s central BAS. Serra and the architect carefully designed the pavilion to serve as part of the exhibit, with Mueller’s minimalist MEP approach balancing temperature and humidity control through the seasons and focusing on the art.