Project of the Month: Fulcrum Associates completes 46,000 s/f addition to Hitchiner Manufacturing's John Morison Building

Fulcrum Associates, Inc. has recently completed the 46,000 s/f addition to the John H. Morison building, GTO gas turbine casting facility for Hitchiner Manufacturing. Hitchiner Manufacturing is the investment casting supplier of choice for many premier manufactures in the aerospace gas turbine engine industry. The construction project was completed in two phases, phase one included the construction of the additions' building shell, 26,000 s/f of 2 story office and 20,000 s/f of expanded manufacturing space, relocation of a major natural gas service entrance, build out of the automated manufacturing space, mechanical and electrical systems upgrades as well as parking and site circulation improvements. Phase two of the project consisted of the interior fit up of the 26,000 s/f office space. Beyond the previously lauded "breathtaking" exterior, a blend of masonry, insulated metal panel, expansive windows combined with vaulted exposed timber entry canopies, the tone is set immediately upon entrance to the main lobby, the expansive 2 story space combines components of wood, metal and stone to create a very "high tech" vibe. Visitors are met with the water jet cut stainless steel Hitchiner Manufacturing logo imbedded in the granite entry floor that reflects light into the space and is surrounded by glass shelved wood millwork display cases and leather seating all punctuated by a water feature wall raining over yet another prominent stainless steel logo behind the reception desk. The completion of the move into the office space has unified many of Hitchiner's departments under one roof in a model office environment. The "storefront" walls of the perimeter offices allow natural light to transmit through to the low wall open office spaces, the conference and training spaces are equipped with the latest in audio visual "smart" technology that support the high tech environment. With a continued focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, all the HVAC, lighting and office equipment are of high efficiency, rebate qualifying caliber. To date, over $16,000 of rebates have been realized with the potential for additional rebates to come. With the development of this new space the intangibles of a highly efficient welcoming work environment will no doubt soon be realized. Fulcrum Associates of Amherst, N.H. partnered with Dennis Mires The Architects P.A. of Manchester, N.H. for the design-build effort - with site engineering prepared by Hayner & Swanson of Nashua, N.H. Interior design services were provided by Merlino Design Partnership of Gulph Mills, Penn. Gary Manoogian, project manager and Ralph Fair, site superintendent lead the team for Fulcrum along with Steve Peach from Dennis Mires P.A.