Loring provides mechanical and electrical engineering designs that play a vital role in shaping the environments that bring culture to life—whether in museums, libraries, parks, or performing arts centers. From designing precise climate control systems that protect priceless collections, to creating and supporting sophisticated electrical infrastructure that enhances exhibitions and performance spaces, to providing thoughtful engineering in outdoor spaces that support lighting, safety and sustainability without detracting from the natural landscape, our engineering enlivens the experiences that connect people to art, history, literature, and nature. By integrating technical excellence with a deep understanding of how people interact with their cultural surroundings, Loring helps create spaces that foster inspiration, learning, reflection, and shared human experience.
See below for four recent examples of Loring’s work on cultural projects:
The Davis Center at the Harlem Meer is the re-envisioning of the unique topography at the northern end of Central Park in the heart of New York City. The focal point of the revitalization project is the provision of a new multi-purpose complex that provides year-long free or low-cost public recreation activities in the form of a multi-use green turf field, swimming pool, and ice rink. A dedicated outside air system (DOAS) with heat recovery provides ventilation, while radiant floor heating is installed in a majority of occupied spaces. Mechanically assisted ‘natural ventilation’ (doors open with draw-thru exhaust air via dedicated exhaust fan) is provided during temperate outdoor conditions and a heat recovery chiller provides dehumidification during humid summers. The Davis Center provides both beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces for fitness and wellness activities, cultural events and youth programs that provide connection to both nature and community.
The Michigan State Capitol Heritage Hall project is an important underground expansion of the historic Michigan State Capitol to enhance visitor experience and preserve the building’s legacy. The project includes a 600-person auditorium, conference center, and space for historical exhibits, serving as the main entry point for school groups, tourists, and other visitors. A key feature is the integration of a new 10,000-square-foot below-ground central utility plant that provides year-round heating and cooling to both the Capitol and Heritage Hall using carbon-free geothermal energy, ensuring energy efficiency and sustainability. Modern mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems, including modular chiller-heaters, geothermal wells, and primary-secondary pumping systems, have been utilized. Electrical upgrades included a new substation with a 1000 kVA dry-type transformer and emergency power supplied by paralleled diesel generators. Lighting controls feature advanced dimming and occupancy sensors to optimize energy use. The project reflects a commitment to preserving the Capitol’s historic character while incorporating state-of-the-art technology and sustainable design principles, ensuring the building’s functionality and legacy for future generations.
This open-air amphitheater in Central Park, New York City is operated by The Public Theater and home to the beloved summer tradition of Free Shakespeare in the Park. Since its opening in 1962, the facility had deteriorated over time and required extensive repairs and upgrades. MEP improvements included new Variable Refrigerant Flow heating/cooling systems and 100% outdoor air units with heat recovery for climate controlled front-of-house and backstage spaces, a complete new electrical service and distribution system to support general and theatrical performance lighting, controls and sound technology, replacement of all domestic water, sanitary and storm systems, and critical new life safety systems including a dry pipe sprinkler system, voice fire alarm system and public evacuation system with response protocols in both normal and theater performance modes. The revitalization project provides the public, performers, and backstage workers with a first-rate facility and ensures that the theater will continue to captivate millions of New Yorkers and visitors alike for future generations.
The new 44,000-square-foot National Law Enforcement Museum is located at the south end of Judiciary Square adjacent to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC.
The project includes two entrance pavilions at grade and multiple underground levels to house ticketing, exhibits, and building infrastructure. This landmark cultural institution was developed to serve as the largest, most comprehensive museum and research center dedicated to law enforcement history and public education. Designed to welcome up to 500,000 visitors annually, the museum provides an immersive environment that honors the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers while engaging in a broad and diverse audience.
Loring designed high-efficiency mechanical and electrical systems, to support reliable museum operations while achieving LEED Silver certification and long-term environmental performance.
The mechanical system balances thermal comfort for visitors with the need to meet tight humidity control requirements within a below-grade facility. Specific mechanical design innovations include three high efficiency water-cooled modular electric water chillers with magnetic bearing and VFD controls along with a variable primary flow pumping system, air handling units furnished with electric steam humidifiers to control humidity levels in the exhibit area and the Hall of Remembrance at all times, and a Building Energy Management Control System (EMCS) designed for real time energy monitoring and optimization.
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