Biodesix, a pioneering force in personalized medicine and molecular diagnostics, embarked on a transformative journey with the relocation of its corporate headquarters from Broomfield, CO to Boulder, CO. The strategic move marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to revolutionize healthcare through tailored lung cancer diagnostics. This project, crucial for Biodesix’s future growth, demanded an intricate blend of precision, efficiency, and innovation.
Murphy Company, in collaboration with Swinerton, was honored to lead the HVAC and plumbing components of this comprehensive retrofit. Our involvement began in the preconstruction phase, where we played a pivotal role in design review and value engineering. This early engagement was conductive in shaping a successful project outcome, underscoring our commitment to excellence and strategic foresight. Our expertise with pharmaceutical/ laboratory projects, exceptional Virtual Construction techniques, unique approach to problem solving, and strong communication was the perfect formula needed to create a successful project.
Our scope encompassed the installation of a state-of-the-art boiler plant, extensive heating hot water piping, nine Rooftop Units (RTUs), six exhaust fans, and comprehensive terminal equipment throughout the facility. Additionally, we undertook a major upgrade of the underground plumbing to support the newly integrated bathroom groups and kitchen areas. The transition from an outdated Kohl’s retail store to a cutting-edge laboratory required meticulous attention to detail, innovative problem-solving, and exceptional communication.
The project timeline was ambitious, with the transition from receiving the 100% Design Development (DD) drawings to project turnover completed in under a year. To meet this aggressive schedule, Murphy Company’s team was onboarded early, allowing for a detailed understanding of the layout and enabling precise milestone planning. Our proactive approach to scheduling and overtime facilitated the timely completion of the retrofit.
One of the project’s standout achievements was our use of Virtual Construction techniques and BIM coordination. Early sign-off on the BIM model allowed for extensive prefabrication, significantly enhancing efficiency. For instance, the HHW main piping in the boiler plant was installed within just three days of fabrication arrival—a testament to our team’s precision and speed.
A notable challenge arose with the extended lead times for the Lab RTUs. To mitigate this, we ensured that system rough-ins were 90% complete before the RTUs were installed. To accommodate this rough-in, all RTU curbs and duct risers were installed, tested and insulated prior to the units arriving. Additionally, our craft had to study the design for the RTUs to eliminate the need to do rework when the units arrived. This required meticulous coordination with the RTU manufacturer and the installation of temporary weather enclosures to protect exposed duct and maintain project momentum.
Unexpected issues during underground construction, specifically related to native soil conditions, were addressed through a 100% squeegee backfill solution. Due to its inherent “free flowing” properties, squeegee backfill does not need to be compacted. This innovative approach, proposed by Murphy Company and our excavation subcontractor, resolved potential void space and compaction concerns effectively.
The value engineering (VE) process proved crucial in setting the project budget for success. A key challenge involved modifying the lab humidifier system from internal to standalone units. By reconfiguring the steam piping with two smaller sub-mains, we ensured compliance with manufacturer recommendations while fitting the system within spatial constraints. Murphy Company performed 30,000 man hours between all trades on this project with zero lost time.
The successful completion of Biodesix’s headquarters retrofit not only represents a significant advancement in laboratory facilities but also reflects our unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence. As Biodesix continues its mission to advance personalized diagnostics, Murphy Company remains proud to have played a key role in transforming their vision into a state-of-the-art reality. This project stands as a testament to our expertise, collaborative spirit, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of construction excellence.
