Engenium Group provided mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering and design services for Howard University’s historic Miner Building renovation. Home to the School of Education and the Charter Middle School for Mathematics and Science, the 80,000 SF facility now includes modern classrooms, an indoor gymnasium, auditorium, conference room, offices, and restrooms. Originally constructed in 1913, the building had been vacant and severely deteriorated prior to renovation. All existing HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems were beyond their useful life and non-compliant with current codes. The scope of work included a complete replacement of these systems to support modern functionality while maintaining the building’s historic integrity.
For the mechanical design, Engenium engineers implemented a Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) system combined with Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS). All major mechanical equipment was consolidated onto a single rooftop to minimize visual impact on the historic structure. Two semi-custom rooftop units (RTUs) were equipped with advanced sound-dampening features to reduce noise transmission to the double-height gymnasium and auditorium below. Humidification systems were also designed specifically for those spaces to help preserve the wood flooring.
The Miner Building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and protected by a State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) Conservation Easement, requiring close coordination to balance historic preservation with modern performance.
Photos by Allen Russ Photography
