Life science facilities present unique challenges in incorporating cost-effective, sustainable designs that provide tangible energy savings to meet client expectations. One solution to achieve this is to engineer large air-to-air energy recovery systems. Air-to-air solutions have large space requirements in both footprint and volume that is a luxury not often available in urban campuses. One alternative method of achieving the goal of energy savings with reliable operation while addressing limited space constraints is to provide high-performance run-around heat recovery systems. These systems utilize familiar components such as pumps, heat exchangers, filters, and coils, making the solution easy to understand and maintain. The design includes a bypass around the exhaust airstream coil with a walk-in service plenum, allowing 24/7 operation of the building's exhaust airstream while performing required maintenance. Backed up by the manufacturer’s performance guarantee, the owner is provided with a cost-effective, sustainable design and have the security that the system will reduce the building’s energy consumption and lower annual energy costs.

Case Study: Laboratory Project in New York

Loring recently completed a life sciences laboratory project in New York utilizing a high-performance run-around heat recovery system. This system captures energy from the building's exhaust system, which would otherwise be wasted. Dedicated coils in the building's multiple air-handling units and exhaust fan systems receive a glycol-water solution that is circulated between the outside air and exhaust air airstreams, while maintaining complete separation between the two to prevent potential cross contamination. The installed run-around heat recovery system offsets nearly 100% of the building's pre-heat ventilation load and approximately 17.5% of the building's ventilation cooling loads. Given New York's challenging climate, choosing a system that was reliable, efficient, and simple was paramount to the project's success.

Isometric View of Typical Heat Recovery Hydraulic Unit Skid Typical Heat Recovery Single Line Diagram

Get In Touch

For more information on how Loring can help you with your life science challenges, contact Ivan Zgombic, PE.  Principal Email: IZgombic@loringengineers.com

We were honored to attend the ACEC National Recognition Awards Gala in Washington, DC on May 20th for the 2025 Engineering Excellence Awards. Our team received a National Recognition Award for the New Jersey Executive Statehouse Renovation and Restoration project, which previously received the Grand Honor Award for Non-Transportation Projects at the ACEC-NJ Engineering Excellence Awards Banquet in March. We’re proud of the work behind this achievement and grateful to everyone who contributed to the project’s success. Special thanks to Oneil Gayle, Vincent Farese, Nitish Joy, and J. Michael Galway for representing Loring at the event.  

Loring’s Healthcare Group Leader, Rahul Tikekar, PE, MS, MBA, recently brought his expertise to two Association of Medical Facility Professionals (AMFP) events, where he shared insights into the essential role of ownership in delivering successful healthcare projects. Shaping the Future of Healthcare Facilities in New York and Beyond 10th Greater New York Hospital, Outpatient Facilities & Medical Office Buildings Summit On April 15, Rahul moderated a panel at the 10th Greater New York Hospital, Outpatient Facilities & Medical Office Buildings Summit, held at Columbia University. The session, titled “What Makes a Project Successful – The Owner’s Perspective,” featured senior leaders from Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Catholic Health, Montefiore, and Yale New Haven Health. The discussion moved beyond conventional project metrics like budget and schedule, highlighting deeper drivers of success: innovation, adaptability, resilience, and stakeholder engagement. Championing Leadership and Collaboration 4th Washington, DC | Maryland | Virginia Hospital, Outpatient Facilities & Medical Office Buildings Summit Two days later, Rahul participated in the 4th Washington, DC | Maryland | Virginia Hospital, Outpatient Facilities & Medical Office Buildings Summit, held at the DesignForce Knowledge Center. He joined panelists from Johns Hopkins, Children’s National, and Page Architecture in a session titled “What Makes a Great Owner.” The conversation centered on how visionary, engaged ownership is essential to aligning multidisciplinary teams, fostering true collaboration, and delivering long-term project value. Drawing on his extensive experience partnering with healthcare systems, design firms, and construction teams, Rahul emphasized that strong owner leadership is often the driving force behind project cohesion, innovation, and successful outcomes.. Advancing Healthcare through Thought Leadership At Loring, we believe that great healthcare design begins with great partnerships. We’re proud to contribute to these critical industry conversations and are committed to deepening the conversation around ownership, collaboration, and success in healthcare facilities planning and engineering. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, we remain committed to delivering thoughtful, forward-looking engineering solutions that support our clients and their communities.

Loring is proud to celebrate two standout projects honored by the ACEC New York Engineering Excellence Awards! Platinum Award SUNY Purchase Clean Energy Master Plan – A Roadmap to a Sustainable Net Zero Campus This project is paving the way for a greener future, delivering strategic, forward-thinking solutions for a net-zero campus. Gold Award Bronx Zoo – Con Edison Switchgear Upgrade A project dedicated to enhancing resilience and reliability at one of New York's most iconic destinations. These awards reflect the dedication, collaboration, and innovation our team brings to every project. Congratulations to everyone who made these achievements possible!

At Loring, our Fire Protection and Life Safety engineers are experienced professionals with the expertise needed to engineer systems that protect both human life and property. The design of Fire Alarm, Emergency Notification, Fire Suppression, Fire Extinguishing and Smoke Management Systems requires in-depth knowledge of code requirements, familiarity with available system technologies, and the ability to engineer systems in response to each Owner’s unique requirements for their building. Most importantly, Loring understands how each of these stand-alone Life Safety systems can and should be integrated into an overall comprehensive fire protection strategy for a building. Listed below are brief descriptions of how Loring’s Fire Protection +Life Safety engineers can help with the design of your next project.  

Fire Alarm Systems 

Loring’s team of NICET-certified Level II, III and IV engineers have the special knowledge required to properly design fire alarm systems for virtually every type of building. We are particularly experienced in the replacement of antiquated fire alarm systems within existing, fully occupied buildings. Beyond minimum code requirements, our engineers are well versed with the requirements of local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ’s), including navigating the complexities of the rules and regulations of the Fire Department of New York (FDNY). Fire Alarm System designs include: 

• Multiplexed, Addressable systems
• Voice Communication Systems
• Very Early Smoke Detection (VESDA) Systems

Emergency Evacuation Systems

In times of crisis, it is imperative that effective, reliable communications systems are in place to allow sharing of critical information between firefighters, as well as between the Fire Safety Director and building occupants. Loring designs these systems as part of a comprehensive Fire Protection Plan. Examples of these communication systems include:

• Auxiliary Radio Communication System (ARCS)
• Emergency Radio Communication System (ERCS)
• Distributed Antennae Systems (DAS)
• Mass Notification Systems

Distributed Antennae System Schematic

Fire Suppression Systems

The engineering of conventional water-based sprinkler and standpipe systems is a critical component of any fire protection solution and is suitable for many applications. In addition to full wet system coverage, Loring’s engineers can assist with variations that may be suitable to specialty areas where water dispersion could cause serious damage or safety concerns such as electrical and communications equipment rooms, or rooms subject to freezing including loading docks, generator rooms, or open parking garages. Examples of these specialty solutions include:

• Dry Pipe Systems
• Pre-Action Systems
• Deluge Systems

Fire Extinguishing Systems

When conventional water-based fire suppression systems are not appropriate for specialty applications or high-value spaces, Loring’s engineers are proficient in designing gaseous clean agent or foam extinguishing systems to extinguish the fire without damaging the contents of the room. Specific applications include:

• Data Centers
• Museums
• Archival Storage
• Fuel Dispensaries

Smoke Management Systems

The proper design of both positive pressurization and exhaust systems to manage the movement of air during and after a fire event is of paramount importance, allowing for the safe evacuation of occupants during a smoke event, as well as returning the building to normal operations with minimum disruption. These systems include:

• Smoke Control
• Stair Pressurization
• Post Fire Smoke Purge

Life Safety Documentation

Many codes require that facilities have well-documented plans for emergency response to a smoke/fire condition. Loring has significant experience preparing these plans and other documentation to assist building Owner’s in meeting both code requirements and internal objectives as part of their comprehensive Fire Safety strategy.

• Fire Safety Plans
• Fire Evacuation Plans
• As-Buit conditions

Compliance with Code Mandates

Many jurisdictions now require that existing buildings meeting certain criteria be retrofitted to be fully sprinklered. Loring’s fire protection engineers can assist Owners to comply with this requirement by analyzing the existing fire protection system infrastructure (if any) to determine the most cost-effective solution to provide full coverage sprinkler protection for the building.

Get In Touch

For more information on how Loring can help you with your Fire Protection + Life Safety challenges, contact Jonatan Sabogal, PE, CFPS, NICET Vice President – Life Safety Systems Phone: 646-674-6100 Email: jsabogal@loringengineers.com

Loring’s Healthcare Group recently participated in two significant industry events, Healthcare Group Leader, Rahul Tikekar, PE, MS, MBA, shared his expertise on critical topics shaping the future of healthcare facilities. National Healthcare Construction Forum - March 18, 2025 Hosted by Commercial Observer, the National Healthcare Construction Forum brought together industry leaders to discuss emerging trends in healthcare construction and design. Rahul had the pleasure of moderating a dynamic panel focused on Energy Innovations, Electrification, and Resiliency in Healthcare Facilities. The discussion explored cutting-edge strategies for improving energy efficiency, integrating sustainable solutions, and ensuring the long-term resilience of healthcare infrastructure. Healthcare Facilities Management Society of New Jersey - March 20, 2025 Just days later, Rahul along with Vice President Charlies Lesniak presented at the Healthcare Facilities Management Society of New Jersey (HFMSNJ) event, where he delved into the evolving design of operating and procedure rooms. His session highlighted the critical integration of MEP systems and imaging equipment, emphasizing the importance of seamless coordination between engineering and medical technology for optimal patient care and operational efficiency. These events provided an excellent opportunity for Loring to engage with industry peers, share insights, and contribute to conversations on the future of healthcare facility design and construction. Stay tuned for more updates, and check out some highlights from these events in the images below!   National Healthcare Construction Forum   Healthcare Facilities Management Society of New Jersey

Avash Joshi began his professional career at Loring as an intern in 2012 while completing his Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering degrees from Rochester Institute of Technology. He joined Loring full-time in 2013, in Loring’s Commissioning and Energy Services Group where he gained significant experience in commissioning, energy auditing, energy modeling, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. He is a Certified Energy Manager, Certified Building Commissioning Professional, and LEED Accredited Professional. In 2016, Avash moved to Toronto from New York City. Despite his relatively short tenure with the firm, Loring recognized his talents and growth potential, and elected to open a Canadian office to enable Avash to continue his career at Loring while simultaneously expanding Loring’s geographical presence into Canada. Over the last nine years, Avash has contributed to Loring’s growth in Toronto while leading the mechanical engineering team to complete several high-profile design projects (such as the BAS replacement at Toronto City Hall and a new net-zero administration building for the Durham Region of Transit). He also leads Loring’s Canadian commissioning team, which has undertaken several laboratory and healthcare projects for the University of Toronto and the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre.     An excellent communicator and insightful leader in addition to his technical acumen, Avash was named Loring’s Mechanical Engineer of the Year in 2023. We are excited to announce that Avash has been promoted to Vice President and leader of Loring’s Toronto office, where he will be responsible for overseeing our Canadian operations. Please join us in congratulating Avash on this most recent career advancement.

Loring is proud to announce that The New Jersey Executive Statehouse Renovation and Restoration project has been honored with the Grand Honor Award for Non-Transportation Projects at the ACEC-NJ Engineering Excellence Awards Banquet! Loring provided mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and telecom / AV engineering services for the project. A special shoutout to Vincent Farese, PE and Nitish Joy, PE, who proudly accepted the award on behalf of Loring. This achievement is a testament to the dedication, creativity, and collaboration of our team. Successfully integrating modern mechanical and electrical systems while preserving the building’s historic integrity required innovative solutions and seamless coordination across disciplines. A huge thank you to our project partners:

• Nelson Worldwide (Architecture)
• PDP (Preservation Architecture)
• Silman (Structural Engineering)
• Jensen Hughes (Fire Protection)
• Langan (Site/Civil)
• Gary Steffy Lighting Design (Lighting)
• SMW (Acoustics)
• Turner Construction Co. (Construction Management)
• Daniel J. Keating Co. (General Contractor)

We are also excited to share that this project has received a National Recognition Award in ACEC’s 2025 Engineering Excellence Awards competition! The achievement will be celebrated at a gala dinner in Washington, DC on May 20, 2025

At Loring, we leverage our extensive building systems expertise to integrate advanced simulation techniques into our design practice. Our commitment to innovation allows us to deliver optimized designs tailored to meet the unique requirements of each project. We utilize a suite of sophisticated simulation tools to tackle complex engineering challenges, ensuring that our solutions are not only effective but also efficient. By combining our deep knowledge of building systems with cutting-edge technology, we develop solutions that align with our clients’ goals and project needs.

CFD Simulation

As part of our commitment to technical excellence and innovation, Loring has a dedicated team of specialist / modeling engineers who provide Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) services. We work closely with design teams and clients to understand and realize unique project requirements. CFD plays an increasingly important role in designing thermally comfortable, healthy, and energy-efficient buildings. Its applications range from building site planning to individual room layout design, from active mechanical HVAC system design to passive ventilation studies, and from regular indoor air quality assessments to critical fire, smoke, and contaminant control. Key CFD applications for buildings include: Indoor Thermal and Airflow Analysis

• Air distribution and ventilation system optimization
• Thermal comfort predictions for occupants
• Temperature and humidity distribution modeling
• Passive Ventilation Studies including natural ventilation and buoyancy-driven exhaust

Indoor Air Quality Study

• Evaluation of ventilation strategies and potential contaminant spread
• Airborne disease control

Outdoor Airflow Modeling

• Pedestrian wind comfort and safety assessment
• Urban microclimate studies
• Exterior Contaminant Dispersion
• Exhaust Re-entrainment

Fire and Smoke Analysis

• Smoke Movement and Dispersion
• Ventilation System Performance Evaluation
• Heat Transfer Analysis

Multizone Airflow Modeling

We utilize advanced multizone airflow modeling to perform comprehensive stack effect and smoke management studies. These analyses are crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of building ventilation systems, particularly in high-rise buildings and complex structures. Stack Effect Analysis

• Understanding Air Movement: Analyze the natural movement of air within buildings due to temperature differences between indoor and outdoor environments.
• Pressure Differential Management: Evaluate and manage pressure differentials across different building zones to prevent unwanted airflow and ensure balanced ventilation.
• Design Optimization: Optimize building designs to mitigate negative impacts of stack effect, such as drafts, energy loss, and compromised indoor air quality.

Smoke Management Studies

• Smoke Movement and Dispersion: Simulate the movement and dispersion of smoke within a building
• Stairwell and Elevator Pressurization: Design and optimize pressurization systems for stairwells and elevator shafts to create positive pressure differentials, preventing smoke infiltration and ensuring safe evacuation routes.

Fluid Network Analysis

We use advanced simulation tools to design and optimize fluid networks, ensuring efficient and reliable operation. Our simulations predict system behavior under various conditions, allowing for precise adjustments and improvements. Our expertise ensures optimal performance, energy efficiency, and reliability for your HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems. Hydronic System Performance

• Pipe sizing and pressure drop analysis for optimal flow distribution
• Pump optimization for energy efficiency and load adaptability

Thermal and Domestic Water Systems

• Hot and chilled water distribution modeling to minimize energy losses
• Water supply and drainage analysis to maintain pressure balance and prevent backflow

Fire Protection System Optimization

• Hydraulic calculations for sprinkler, standpipe, and hydrant systems
• Simulations for emergency flow conditions and suppression effectiveness

Energy Modeling

At Loring, we leverage whole building energy simulations to provide comprehensive assessments of a building’s energy consumption. These advanced simulations allow our designers to evaluate different scenarios, compare the energy performance of various design alternatives, and select the most efficient solutions. Design Optimization

• Comparison of different mechanical systems and energy conservation strategies
• Optimization of system sizing to avoid over-designing

Performance Analysis

• Estimation of building thermal loads and energy use
• Calculation of energy costs and potential savings

Compliance and Certification

• Support for code compliance demonstrations
• Assistance in achieving green building certifications like LEED
• Qualification for tax credits and utility incentives

Sustainability Initiatives

• Support for building decarbonization efforts
• Evaluation of renewable energy integration

Get In Touch

To find out how Building Simulation Services can assist you with your project needs, please contact Maria Xia, Vice President of Building Simulation Services Phone: 646-674-6151 Email: mxia@loringengineers.com

We are pleased to announce...

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Charles Lesniak, PE and Peter Morin, PE have been elevated to Vice Presidents.

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Michael Minzicu, PE, Andrew J. Silvestre, PE, Pawel Tryzna and Eric Wells have been elevated to Associate Vice Presidents.

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More Advancements  Andrew Franceschina, PE, Thomas Irkinas, Gregory Johnson and Wai Ng, PE have been elevated to Senior Associate. Recently named Associates are: Maggie Lei, EIT, Nicholas Martella and Shreyas Modi, PE. Akia Izaguirre has been elevated to Senior Marketing and Proposal Manager.

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Please join us in congratulating these extraordinary professionals on their latest career achievements!

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