Ambulatory Services Building
Project Snapshot
Type: Ambulatory Services Building (Healthcare)
Size: 80,000 SF
Location: Warwick, RI
Architects: Lavallee Brensinger
Scope: Energy Performance Consulting
Focus: IECC 2024 compliance, energy modeling, design guidance
The Situation
A new ambulatory services building was being developed to support and expand operations at Kent Hospital. The project fell under Rhode Island’s adoption of IECC 2024 with state amendments which is one of the most stringent and evolving energy codes at the time.
The design team needed to meet aggressive compliance targets, but the practical implications of the updated code were not fully clear.
The Challenge
The project had to navigate new and complex code requirements, including additional efficiency credits and evolving interpretations. The uncertainty was in understanding how those requirements would shape real design decisions without adding unnecessary cost or complexity.
What We Did
Provided early and ongoing design guidance aligned with IECC 2024 requirements
Interpreted and clarified code nuances and amendments for the design team
Developed energy models to test compliance pathways
Advised on strategies for additional energy efficiency credits
Translated regulatory requirements into clear, actionable design direction
Key Insight
Rather than stacking on additional systems, we focused on a practical, well‑targeted strategy that brought the design into compliance.
Successfully met IECC 2024 energy code requirements
Avoided higher-cost measures such as triple-pane glazing through targeted design decisions
Integrated required renewable energy systems to satisfy compliance pathways
Provided the team with clarity in navigating a complex and evolving code environment
This project demonstrates how translating complex regulatory frameworks into clear design decisions can reduce risk, control costs, and keep projects moving forward.
