2009 Archived Publications & Press Releases
Current | 2008 | 2007 | Older
Publications
Beyond the Business Card
California Real Estate Journal - Dec 28, 2009
Syska Hennessy's diverse portfolio of projects spans the gamut from aquariums, airports and convention centers to hospitals and university buildings, and from corporate and government office buildings to critical facilities such as data centers. But according to Banning-Wright, the company's most active market right now are projects in which a highly integrated team is needed.
California Real Estate Journal - Dec 28, 2009
Syska Hennessy's diverse portfolio of projects spans the gamut from aquariums, airports and convention centers to hospitals and university buildings, and from corporate and government office buildings to critical facilities such as data centers. But according to Banning-Wright, the company's most active market right now are projects in which a highly integrated team is needed.
State of the Union
Building Sustainable Design - Dec 01, 2009
The iconic building known as 41 Cooper Union Square in New York is spotlighted. The unique architectural design as well as engineering design are reviewed. On the engineering front Syska Hennessy Group's MEP work is featured in the "Services Checklist" section.
Building Sustainable Design - Dec 01, 2009
The iconic building known as 41 Cooper Union Square in New York is spotlighted. The unique architectural design as well as engineering design are reviewed. On the engineering front Syska Hennessy Group's MEP work is featured in the "Services Checklist" section.
A Successful Safety Culture
(PDF, 1.10 MB)
The Compass - Dec 01, 2009
The concept of a successful safety culture is top-down management support and ownership at all levels.
The Compass - Dec 01, 2009
The concept of a successful safety culture is top-down management support and ownership at all levels.
Common Mistakes in Existing Data Centers
(PDF, 759 KB)
Data Center Journal - Nov 25, 2009
Some of the most common mistakes you find in existing data centers are reviewed, along with remedies for each. This includes leaky raised access floors, congested cables underfloor, and to many CRAC units operating to name a few.
Data Center Journal - Nov 25, 2009
Some of the most common mistakes you find in existing data centers are reviewed, along with remedies for each. This includes leaky raised access floors, congested cables underfloor, and to many CRAC units operating to name a few.
Plumbing for Critical Facilities' Data Centers
Plumbing Engineer - Nov 18, 2009
What you need to know about Plumbing for Critical Facilities? What happens if the water supply to a building runs dry, and how can damage from water leakage be avoided? These are fundamental questions that need to be analyzed in every component of the plumbing system in data centers to ensure no down time is attributed to these components.
Plumbing Engineer - Nov 18, 2009
What you need to know about Plumbing for Critical Facilities? What happens if the water supply to a building runs dry, and how can damage from water leakage be avoided? These are fundamental questions that need to be analyzed in every component of the plumbing system in data centers to ensure no down time is attributed to these components.
Horizontal or Vertical: What's your angle?
(PDF, 661 KB)
District Energy Magazine - Nov 10, 2009
Pump configurations for central plants such as vertical and horizontal axis are reviewed. In general, published literature for vertical pumps claim many advantages over horizontal pumps. However, this article suggests not to rule out horizontal configurations.
District Energy Magazine - Nov 10, 2009
Pump configurations for central plants such as vertical and horizontal axis are reviewed. In general, published literature for vertical pumps claim many advantages over horizontal pumps. However, this article suggests not to rule out horizontal configurations.
Lost + Found
(PDF, 728 KB)
Health Facilities Management - Nov 05, 2009
Many hospitals and healthcare systems are considering the installation of tracking systems equipment. With so many options out in the market, it seems like a daunting proposition; but selecting a proper location system is not an impossible task, especially if stakeholders do careful planning up front. A checklist of technologies including RFID/RTLS and others are reviewed, as well as other considerations in making an informed decision.
Health Facilities Management - Nov 05, 2009
Many hospitals and healthcare systems are considering the installation of tracking systems equipment. With so many options out in the market, it seems like a daunting proposition; but selecting a proper location system is not an impossible task, especially if stakeholders do careful planning up front. A checklist of technologies including RFID/RTLS and others are reviewed, as well as other considerations in making an informed decision.
Designing a More Energy Efficient Data Center
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - Nov 05, 2009
As a result of the EPA's national energy information program, data center operators are gaining an appreciation of sustainable design and high-performance buildings, and have successfully applied these concepts to their facilities. See what energy efficient design practices should be explored in new data centers.
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - Nov 05, 2009
As a result of the EPA's national energy information program, data center operators are gaining an appreciation of sustainable design and high-performance buildings, and have successfully applied these concepts to their facilities. See what energy efficient design practices should be explored in new data centers.
Planning the modern data network
(PDF, 1.41 MB)
Healthcare Building Ideas - Sep 30, 2009
With the advancement of such factors as Power Over Ethernet and pure Internet Protocol capabilities, coupled with the concept of universal cabling, more and more services are being placed on the computer network. As a result, the information technology network within a healthcare facility has become as critical as any other building utility. This has caused some significant changes to the space required to house it all.
Healthcare Building Ideas - Sep 30, 2009
With the advancement of such factors as Power Over Ethernet and pure Internet Protocol capabilities, coupled with the concept of universal cabling, more and more services are being placed on the computer network. As a result, the information technology network within a healthcare facility has become as critical as any other building utility. This has caused some significant changes to the space required to house it all.
Should You Comply with Article 645 of the National Electrical Code
SearchDataCenter.com - Sep 21, 2009
We have identified the major differences in design, planning and operation between data centers that comply with Article 645 and those that do not. In this comparison we have utilized the 2008 version of the National Electrical Code that is enforced by most local authorities with jurisdiction.
SearchDataCenter.com - Sep 21, 2009
We have identified the major differences in design, planning and operation between data centers that comply with Article 645 and those that do not. In this comparison we have utilized the 2008 version of the National Electrical Code that is enforced by most local authorities with jurisdiction.
Syska Hennessy Group Construction receives $5.896 million task order
San Diego Source - Sep 14, 2009
Syska Hennessy Group Construction awarded multiple award construction contract for photovoltaic systems at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake.
San Diego Source - Sep 14, 2009
Syska Hennessy Group Construction awarded multiple award construction contract for photovoltaic systems at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake.
The Science of Sustainability
Sustainable Facility - Sep 01, 2009
Greene Hall, part two of SUNY Geneseo's two-phase development, reaffirms the campus' place as a leader in science and technology research. Sustainable aspects and state-of the art features of the educational research facility are discussed.
Sustainable Facility - Sep 01, 2009
Greene Hall, part two of SUNY Geneseo's two-phase development, reaffirms the campus' place as a leader in science and technology research. Sustainable aspects and state-of the art features of the educational research facility are discussed.
Chilled Beams: Not Your Every Day Weapon Against Heat
(PDF, 172 KB)
District Energy Magazine - Aug 25, 2009
Chilled Beam systems have been an emerging cooling technology for the past 10 years. Learn about their origins; the many types of CBs; how they save energy; and where they can be utilized.
District Energy Magazine - Aug 25, 2009
Chilled Beam systems have been an emerging cooling technology for the past 10 years. Learn about their origins; the many types of CBs; how they save energy; and where they can be utilized.
Modeling High Performance Buildings
(PDF, 5.52 MB)
Urban Land - Aug 25, 2009
Sustainability and modeling tools, which enable multiple energy-efficient design strategies to be evaluated in a short period, are driving today's high performance buildings.
Urban Land - Aug 25, 2009
Sustainability and modeling tools, which enable multiple energy-efficient design strategies to be evaluated in a short period, are driving today's high performance buildings.
Four Building Security Hot Spots
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - Aug 06, 2009
Understanding security trends and technologies is crucial, especially in a recession when crime often increases. Complacency is not a good reason to cut security from the budget. Read about what facility executives should be aware of to avoid an upswing in security incidents.
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - Aug 06, 2009
Understanding security trends and technologies is crucial, especially in a recession when crime often increases. Complacency is not a good reason to cut security from the budget. Read about what facility executives should be aware of to avoid an upswing in security incidents.
Rack Enclosures : A Crucial Link in Airflow Management in Data Centers
(PDF, 627 KB)
ASHRAE Insights - Aug 04, 2009
Rack enclosures are a crucial link between data center air-handling units and servers. Design of rack enclosures can impact the fan performance and therefore, cooling performance of servers. This article illustrates the importance of rack enclosure design and airflow management within rack enclosures.
ASHRAE Insights - Aug 04, 2009
Rack enclosures are a crucial link between data center air-handling units and servers. Design of rack enclosures can impact the fan performance and therefore, cooling performance of servers. This article illustrates the importance of rack enclosure design and airflow management within rack enclosures.
Shanghai Directions and the China Syndrome
(PDF, 2.65 MB)
Strategic Facilities - Aug 01, 2009
Interview with Christopher Johnston, Chief Engineer
Strategic Facilities - Aug 01, 2009
Interview with Christopher Johnston, Chief Engineer
Shanghai Directions and the China Syndrome
(PDF, 2.65 MB)
Strategic Facilities - Aug 01, 2009
Interview with Christopher Johnston, Chief Engineer
Strategic Facilities - Aug 01, 2009
Interview with Christopher Johnston, Chief Engineer
7 Things to Do with a Legacy Data Center in a Tough Economy
Buildings.com - Jul 15, 2009
Data center mangers -especially for legacy data centers -are under pressure to reduce operating costs. There are some proven strategies to help accomplish that while maintaining availability and spending little or no money.
Buildings.com - Jul 15, 2009
Data center mangers -especially for legacy data centers -are under pressure to reduce operating costs. There are some proven strategies to help accomplish that while maintaining availability and spending little or no money.
NFPA-72-2010 Dedicated to Mass Notification Systems
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - Jul 07, 2009
Experts agree that the time is right for the regulation of mass-notification systems. The need is driven in large part by the fact that effective mass notification depends on complex and coordinated interaction between multiple systems. In response to this emerging need, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) issued guidelines and recommendations for mass notification as Annex E to its NFPA-72-2007 fire code.
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - Jul 07, 2009
Experts agree that the time is right for the regulation of mass-notification systems. The need is driven in large part by the fact that effective mass notification depends on complex and coordinated interaction between multiple systems. In response to this emerging need, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) issued guidelines and recommendations for mass notification as Annex E to its NFPA-72-2007 fire code.
Key Aspects of Designing a Data Center for Maintainability
SearchDataCenter.com - Jul 07, 2009
Successful organizations recognize that to maintain continuous operations requires providing all the necessary tools and resources to the operations and maintenance (O&M) staff. Obviously, this means designing and building a concurrently maintainable and fault tolerant facility. But this is just the start.
SearchDataCenter.com - Jul 07, 2009
Successful organizations recognize that to maintain continuous operations requires providing all the necessary tools and resources to the operations and maintenance (O&M) staff. Obviously, this means designing and building a concurrently maintainable and fault tolerant facility. But this is just the start.
Increasing Efficiency Downstream of the UPS
(PDF, 726 KB)
Data Center Journal - May 28, 2009
Chris Johnston focuses on three key areas that offer opportunities to improve efficiency downstream of the UPS.
Also available in Chinese
Data Center Journal - May 28, 2009
Chris Johnston focuses on three key areas that offer opportunities to improve efficiency downstream of the UPS.
Also available in Chinese
Data Center O&M Best Practices for Critical Facilities
SearchDataCenter.com - May 25, 2009
Operations and maintenance of today's critical facilities is being recognized as equally important as the engineering and design phases of thes complex sites.
SearchDataCenter.com - May 25, 2009
Operations and maintenance of today's critical facilities is being recognized as equally important as the engineering and design phases of thes complex sites.
Sustainable Lighting: A Design Imperative
(PDF, 1.80 MB)
Perspective NY - May 18, 2009
Lighting design has become an integral component in providing, and maintaining a sustainable, interior environment. The lighting industry and tools available on the market are rapidly evolving to fulfill gorwing demand for sustainable environments and to meet the strict energy codes of today and tomorrow.
Perspective NY - May 18, 2009
Lighting design has become an integral component in providing, and maintaining a sustainable, interior environment. The lighting industry and tools available on the market are rapidly evolving to fulfill gorwing demand for sustainable environments and to meet the strict energy codes of today and tomorrow.
Energy Modeling Improves Building Performance
National Real Estate Investor Magazine - May 07, 2009
Simply put, building energy simulation is a tool used by designers to illustrate the implications of their design decisions before a building is constructed. The benefits of energy modeling as well as the software tools available are discussed.
National Real Estate Investor Magazine - May 07, 2009
Simply put, building energy simulation is a tool used by designers to illustrate the implications of their design decisions before a building is constructed. The benefits of energy modeling as well as the software tools available are discussed.
Small Steps Lead to Big Data Center Efficiency Gains
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - May 07, 2009
In addition to improving reliability in data centers, today master improvement plans are being broadend to address energy efficiency as well. Steps to improve energy efficiency can also bolster reliability. An actual case study for a fortune 500 client's data center illustrates this point.
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - May 07, 2009
In addition to improving reliability in data centers, today master improvement plans are being broadend to address energy efficiency as well. Steps to improve energy efficiency can also bolster reliability. An actual case study for a fortune 500 client's data center illustrates this point.
BAS/EMS Upgrades
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - May 07, 2009
Before proceeding with any upgrades to an existing EMS/BAS system - or in lieu of an uprade if the budget doesn't allow for it - facility executives should make sure existing systems are operating at optimal levels. This article reviews a check list of causes making the case credible for an upgrade.
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - May 07, 2009
Before proceeding with any upgrades to an existing EMS/BAS system - or in lieu of an uprade if the budget doesn't allow for it - facility executives should make sure existing systems are operating at optimal levels. This article reviews a check list of causes making the case credible for an upgrade.
LEED Looks Ahead with Ambitious Overhaul
(PDF, 148 KB)
Architectural Record - May 01, 2009
The LEED® ratings system gets revamped to provide a base more grounded in science and to promote those strategies with the greatest environmental benefits. Rob Bolin, gives his positive opinion on the new program's outlook.
Architectural Record - May 01, 2009
The LEED® ratings system gets revamped to provide a base more grounded in science and to promote those strategies with the greatest environmental benefits. Rob Bolin, gives his positive opinion on the new program's outlook.
Humidity Control
(PDF, 1.33 MB)
7x24Newslink - May 01, 2009
New ASHRAE Thermal Guidelines provide a wider range of temperature and humidity in the data center environment, allowing for significant opportunities for reduced energy usage through implementation of economizer operation strategies.
7x24Newslink - May 01, 2009
New ASHRAE Thermal Guidelines provide a wider range of temperature and humidity in the data center environment, allowing for significant opportunities for reduced energy usage through implementation of economizer operation strategies.
When Is Too Much Delta T Too Much?
(PDF, 809 KB)
District Energy Magazine - May 01, 2009
High temperature differentials in termail units for variable air volume systems are addressed. Learn how lower heating supply water temperature and high delta T's make sense when trying to save a little energy.
District Energy Magazine - May 01, 2009
High temperature differentials in termail units for variable air volume systems are addressed. Learn how lower heating supply water temperature and high delta T's make sense when trying to save a little energy.
The Shape of Things to Come (Apologies to H.G. Wells)
N'Compass Solutions - Apr 21, 2009
Christopher Johnston comments on the predictions for cooling solutions, electrical and software technologies, and virtualization in the data center.
N'Compass Solutions - Apr 21, 2009
Christopher Johnston comments on the predictions for cooling solutions, electrical and software technologies, and virtualization in the data center.
The HVAC Factor: Watchout Out for Roadblocks
Today's Facility Manager - Apr 20, 2009
Learning the hard way can be time consuming and expensive when it comes to HVAC system design and operation. Being aware of some common problems ahead of time can aid facility managers in avoiding project pitfalls.
Today's Facility Manager - Apr 20, 2009
Learning the hard way can be time consuming and expensive when it comes to HVAC system design and operation. Being aware of some common problems ahead of time can aid facility managers in avoiding project pitfalls.
Structured Communications Cabling
Mission Critical - Apr 01, 2009
Change is the only constant in today's data center, and chances are that any change will affect the cable plant that provides connectivity within the data center. This article discusses how structured cabling will benefit daily operations.
Mission Critical - Apr 01, 2009
Change is the only constant in today's data center, and chances are that any change will affect the cable plant that provides connectivity within the data center. This article discusses how structured cabling will benefit daily operations.
Air Flow Management Strategies for Efficient Data Center Cooling
SearchDataCenter.com - Mar 31, 2009
One of the most common complaints that design engineers hear from data center owners and operators is that they need additional cooling capacity because the existing system doesn't maintain an acceptable temperature at the data center inlets. Good air flow management strategies address that issue.
SearchDataCenter.com - Mar 31, 2009
One of the most common complaints that design engineers hear from data center owners and operators is that they need additional cooling capacity because the existing system doesn't maintain an acceptable temperature at the data center inlets. Good air flow management strategies address that issue.
IT Latency Will Help Data Center Design and Construction Leading Into 2010
Data Center Journal - Mar 26, 2009
Syska comments on the current state of data center construction and remodeling industries during this economic downturn and what they see and hope for the future.
Data Center Journal - Mar 26, 2009
Syska comments on the current state of data center construction and remodeling industries during this economic downturn and what they see and hope for the future.
Building Information Modeling Catching on in Construction Industry
For Construction Pros - Mar 10, 2009
Building information modeling lets members of a project team see nearly every detail of a project in 3-D. But first, team members need to agree how much detail they want.
For Construction Pros - Mar 10, 2009
Building information modeling lets members of a project team see nearly every detail of a project in 3-D. But first, team members need to agree how much detail they want.
Green Right Down to the Wiring and Cabling
Mission Critical - Feb 25, 2009
While actual LEED accreditation may be very difficult to define or achieve for a Data Center, the goal of any project should be to try reducing the carbon footprint of the facility being built. As part of that team, the Telecommunications Distribution Designer needs to look at ways the cabling infrastructure can be part of “Greening the Data Center."
Mission Critical - Feb 25, 2009
While actual LEED accreditation may be very difficult to define or achieve for a Data Center, the goal of any project should be to try reducing the carbon footprint of the facility being built. As part of that team, the Telecommunications Distribution Designer needs to look at ways the cabling infrastructure can be part of “Greening the Data Center."
When Server Racks Undermine Data Center Cooling
SearchDataCenter.com - Feb 11, 2009
Server cabinets are often an overlooked component of data center design. But many believe that selecting the right server cabinet can have a marked effect on data center airflow. Syska's CFD specialist, Kishor Khankari comments.
SearchDataCenter.com - Feb 11, 2009
Server cabinets are often an overlooked component of data center design. But many believe that selecting the right server cabinet can have a marked effect on data center airflow. Syska's CFD specialist, Kishor Khankari comments.
Leaps and Bounds for Controls
Archi-Tech - Feb 11, 2009
New controls in Building Automation Systems will use less energy, thanks to emerging technology. Carlos Petty comments on current trends available today and their benefits.
Archi-Tech - Feb 11, 2009
New controls in Building Automation Systems will use less energy, thanks to emerging technology. Carlos Petty comments on current trends available today and their benefits.
Using Flywheel Power for Data Center Uninterruptible Power Supply Backup
SearchDataCenter.com - Feb 11, 2009
Before opting for flywheels for backup energy during downtime in power outage, you should first understand how they differ from storage batteries.
SearchDataCenter.com - Feb 11, 2009
Before opting for flywheels for backup energy during downtime in power outage, you should first understand how they differ from storage batteries.
Ten Tips to Make a Legacy Data Center More Energy Efficient
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - Feb 02, 2009
Many companies are aggressively pursuing energy-saving strategies, coalescing around a new marketplace paradigm to go, buy, and sell green — a message that often comes from the boardroom. Until recently, however, data centers remained a special case. The typical mission critical facility is a large consumer of energy, representing the lion’s share of facility operating costs. But reliability and availability requirements hampered efforts to improve energy efficiency.
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - Feb 02, 2009
Many companies are aggressively pursuing energy-saving strategies, coalescing around a new marketplace paradigm to go, buy, and sell green — a message that often comes from the boardroom. Until recently, however, data centers remained a special case. The typical mission critical facility is a large consumer of energy, representing the lion’s share of facility operating costs. But reliability and availability requirements hampered efforts to improve energy efficiency.
The Next Generation
(PDF, 1.27 MB)
Mann Report - Feb 02, 2009
Cyrus Izzo, talks about our firm's organizational structure that focuses on its clients by business unit and geography, and making sure that these business units create opportunities to attract and retain top talent.
Mann Report - Feb 02, 2009
Cyrus Izzo, talks about our firm's organizational structure that focuses on its clients by business unit and geography, and making sure that these business units create opportunities to attract and retain top talent.
Green Data Centers Bring Environmental, Financial Gains
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - Jan 28, 2009
Is it worth all the effort to develop greener, more efficient data centers? Arguments for and against are discussed.
Building Operating Management/FacilitiesNet - Jan 28, 2009
Is it worth all the effort to develop greener, more efficient data centers? Arguments for and against are discussed.
ASHRAE expands data center temperature range: Who cares?
SearchDataCenter.com - Jan 27, 2009
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-conditioning Engineers has widened its recommended data center temperature and humidity ranges. But do the changes matter to users?
SearchDataCenter.com - Jan 27, 2009
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-conditioning Engineers has widened its recommended data center temperature and humidity ranges. But do the changes matter to users?
Wireless Networks: Proper Planning for Easier Maintenance
Healthcare Design Magazine - Jan 23, 2009
In the hospital environment, one of the fastest growth areas in technology is wireless networking. Wireless devices can transport signals from computers, refrigeration, monitoring devices, control modules, paters, and the list goes on.
Healthcare Design Magazine - Jan 23, 2009
In the hospital environment, one of the fastest growth areas in technology is wireless networking. Wireless devices can transport signals from computers, refrigeration, monitoring devices, control modules, paters, and the list goes on.
Managed Data Hires Syska for Expansion
Data Center Knowledge - Jan 12, 2009
Managed Data Holdings continues to invest in expanding and upgrading the data center facilities it has acquired. They have hired Syska Hennessy Group Construction, Inc. to design and build a major expansion of its recently acquired Stargate data center in Oak Brook, Ill.
Data Center Knowledge - Jan 12, 2009
Managed Data Holdings continues to invest in expanding and upgrading the data center facilities it has acquired. They have hired Syska Hennessy Group Construction, Inc. to design and build a major expansion of its recently acquired Stargate data center in Oak Brook, Ill.
Making Workplaces 'Greenspaces'
Consulting-Specifying Engineer - Jan 01, 2009
Joining the ranks of the office buildings we design, Syska recently has adopted a series of significant sustainable initiatives that promise to impact our firm's internal culture and the world we live in on a daily basis. From recycling and producing less waste to cutting energy expenditures and greenhouse gas emissions, Syska has rolled out a two-phase plan to color our 19 domestic offices green by 2010.
Consulting-Specifying Engineer - Jan 01, 2009
Joining the ranks of the office buildings we design, Syska recently has adopted a series of significant sustainable initiatives that promise to impact our firm's internal culture and the world we live in on a daily basis. From recycling and producing less waste to cutting energy expenditures and greenhouse gas emissions, Syska has rolled out a two-phase plan to color our 19 domestic offices green by 2010.