University of Georgia

Project Summary:
Location:	University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine Poultry Diagnostic and Research Center Athens, Georgia
Lab Functions:	Avian diagnostic research and necropsy
Project Scope:	20,000 sq. ft. Two floors—10,000 sq. ft. each 22 enclosed 20' x 24' full lab modules per floor
Architect:	Pieper O'Brien Herr Architects Atlanta, Georgia
Laboratory Furnishings and Equipment:	Hamilton Wood Casework

Once the University of Georgia received the state funding needed to expand and renovate the College of Veterinary Medicine's Poultry Diagnostic and Research Center (PDRC), it commissioned a laboratory consultant and architect to conduct a needs analysis and submit a plan. The consultant's proposal was based on a system of modular furniture components designed to facilitate lab reconfiguration in a constantly changing academic research environment. The problem was, it specified a stainless steel structure and furnishings, all of which required custom fabrication. When the bids came in, they were way over budget.

Ultimately Hamilton's MAX/Wall Technical Wall System enabled the university to bring the original modular design concept to fruition within budget. By utilizing a standard product—pre-engineered and manufactured, readily available and quickly installed once the building was ready—the university saved both money and time and avoided the productivity and morale problems that can result from extended downtime.

The narrow 6-inch footprint of MAX/Wall structure, which duplicates the width of standard drywall, provides core chases for organizing and distributing electronic, electrical, gas and other plumbed services. It also is compatible with the entire line of Hamilton MAX/Lab adaptable furniture modules (shelves, table frames, mobile tables, cabinets, and many others). The easily reconfigured components assure the lab's adaptability well into the future. The facility's eleven 32' X 32' lab modules can be easily reconfigured when staff, projects, procedures, equipment or plans change. Removable access panels provide easy entry for utility maintenance, repair and reconfiguration.