CMIT BUILDING BEREA COLLEGE
BEREA, KY
Whole Building Commissioning
LEED Administration
Image courtesy of Berea College
BEREA COLLEGE CMIT BUILDING
COMPUTER SCIENCE, DIGITAL MEDIA AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES (CMIT) BUILDING
BEREA COLLEGE
BEREA, KY
Berea College envisioned two future-focused buildings to harness the power of computer science, digital media and information technology, and applied engineering and design to prepare the next generation of technology thinkers, makers, and innovators.
THE PROJECT
Sited on the campus quad, the CMIT Building is the new home for technology, featuring cutting-edge computing laboratories, an innovative maker space, flexible classrooms, and new spaces for digital-media endeavors such as a sound stage and on-air studio.
The new IS&S center boasts tiered help desks, an equipment lending library, and dedicated workspaces for campus networking and the multimedia event team.
Maker’s space
Flexible classrooms
Image courtesy of Berea College
THE WORK
With its cutting-edge technology and specialized spaces, the project came with a unique set of challenges. Paladin played a key role in ensuring that every system worked seamlessly, delivering reliable performance while staying true to the college’s sustainability goals.
• High-Performance IT Infrastructure: We made sure the building’s networks, server rooms, and data storage systems were not only high-speed and reliable but also properly cooled and equipped with built-in redundancy to prevent disruptions.
• Advanced Audiovisual Systems: From digital media spaces to computer science labs, we tested and integrated state-of-the-art AV setups, ensuring everything functioned smoothly together.
• Smart Building Technology: We coordinated automated lighting, HVAC, and access control systems to work in harmony with the building’s IT infrastructure, creating a seamless, efficient experience.
Data-driven system verification
Verifying mechanical installation in complex ceiling plenum
Detailed inspection of mechanical piping and equipment
Balancing the needs of highperformance computing with energy efficiency was a top priority. Our team implemented innovative solutions like renewable energy systems and advanced energy monitoring to support the college’s sustainability mission.
In spaces like server rooms and computer labs, we carefully managed temperature control to maintain both equipment reliability and occupant comfort. Energy-efficient lighting was verified to ensure precise spectrum and brightness levels required for digital media work, while acoustics and climate controls were fine-tuned for optimal performance in studios and editing rooms.
To ensure long-term flexibility, we supported the team’s design of multi-use classrooms and labs to adapt to evolving technologies and teaching methods. Every system underwent rigorous testing to guarantee strong, consistent performance— making the space futureready from day one.
Studio with editing rooms
Energy-efficient lighting
THE IMPACT
Paladin’s efforts supported Berea College’s sustainability goals and the building’s functionality, achieving impressive results:
• LEED v4 BD+C Silver certification: Meets high benchmarks for energy efficiency, indoor air quality, water conservation, and overall environmental performance
• Total Carbon Reduction: The project reduced 56,105 metric tons of CO₂, equivalent to taking 12,200 cars off the road for a year .
• Indoor Water Savings: By cutting annual water use by 31.39% (56,418 gallons), the project saved nearly half a million bottles of water —enough to hydrate a small town.
• Energy Cost Savings: The $1,028,588.20 (18.7%) in annual energy savings is enough to power 1,172 homes for a year .
• Waste Diverted from Landfills: The project kept 12,000 tons of construction waste (93.05%) out of landfills— equivalent to 1,161 fully loaded garbage trucks .
KEY STATISTICS
This isn’t just a building— it’s a launchpad.
— CHERYL L. NIXON, PRESIDENT, BEREA COLLEGE
ABOUT US
We coined Game changer in building systems TM because of our solid commitment to your building’s potential. Founded in 1986, Paladin is a woman-owned business that harnessed our engineering roots to deliver strategic commissioning, sustainability, and directto-owner engineering services for new and existing facilities.
The Paladin difference is a team that tells you the truth with good intent allowing you to leave status quo behind.
As paladins, we support your project, defend your goals, and champion your building’s success.
We are committed to reducing carbon emissions in every project by more than 10% through operational improvements, embodied carbon awareness, and properly operating systems.
