Washington University – Jubel Hall

Henry A. and Elvira H. Jubel Hall, situated at the heart of Washington University’s Danforth campus transformation, is now a pivotal structure for the School of Engineering & Applied Science’s Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science.

Murphy initiated work on this complex project in September 2017, with the building being handed over to the owner in April 2019. Our responsibilities encompassed the full spectrum of mechanical services including HVAC, sheet metal, piping, lab plumbing and gases, and building plumbing. We utilized Trimble technology to accurately position all points and hangers before the concrete was poured. Our installation work included three 18,000 CFM air-handling units, three 18,000 CFM lab exhaust fans, along with the necessary pumps and piping. The project extensively employed BIM to design, fabricate, and install all components, with significant pre-fabrication done in our Fab Shop to enhance efficiency and precision.

To support the building’s environmental goals, energy-efficient Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) were installed on all pumps, drives, and motors, contributing to the building achieving LEED Gold certification. Additionally, our team installed chilled beams in the faculty offices—a modern, fanless technology gaining popularity in Europe for its efficiency and quiet operation. We ensured that all joints were meticulously sealed to eliminate any interference from sound or vibrations, which is crucial for the precision required in labs with sensitive equipment such as lasers. All gas installations were handled with the same rigor as medical gases to ensure utmost safety and compliance.

Moreover, Murphy took charge of installing significant utility tunnel piping that serves over seven buildings on the east end of the campus, showcasing our capability to manage and execute complex, large-scale infrastructure projects efficiently.

Owner Washington University
Building Type Renovation
Project Size $10,400,000
Contract Type Lump Sum
Completion Date 2019
Project Duration 18 Months

Murphy Team

Project Manager: John Carter
Piping Foreman: Frank Schuette
Plumbing Foreman: Jack Knight
Sheet Metal Foreman: Dale Hirons

Project Team

General Contractor: McCarthy
Engineer: Buro Happold
Electrical: Sachs

Scope of Work

HVAC
Piping
Plumbing
Sheet Metal