Building S-1 at the AGH University of Krakow moving closer to completion
The construction of the state-of-the-art Building S-1 on the campus of the AGH University of Krakow is drawing to a close. The facility, which is set to become a hub for research, education and the development of modern technologies, is currently in the final stages of finishing works. In parallel, preparations are underway for technical handovers and the commissioning of all systems to ensure the building’s full operational readiness.
Building S-1 on the campus of the AGH University of Krakow is undergoing the final phase of delivery. The newly erected facility will provide modern infrastructure for the university’s scientific and academic activities, offering specialist laboratories, advanced IT infrastructure, as well as spaces tailored for the academic community and students.
The vast majority of construction works have already been concluded, and efforts are now focused on finishing works and the installation of technical equipment. ‘We are currently wrapping up the finishing works across all areas of the building. We are carrying out tasks related to plaster skimming, wall painting, the installation of ceiling grids and tiling works. The installation of floor coverings, architectural concrete wall claddings and technical fixtures – including sockets, switches, controllers, ventilation grilles, diffusers and lighting fixtures – is also at a highly advanced stage,’ says Bartosz Miodunka, Site Manager at NDI Group.
Dozens of kilometres of pipes, wires, cables and installation ducts have been routed throughout the building. The facility has been equipped with extensive building management systems (BMS), access control, intruder and panic alarms, fire alarms, CCTV monitoring and audio/video installations. Solutions improving the building’s accessibility for people with disabilities have also been implemented.
Two state-of-the-art server rooms, consisting of six specialist server enclosures, have been built on the fourth floor of the building. Their operation is supported by a precision air conditioning system. Due to the high value and sensitivity of the installed equipment, most rooms on this floor have been equipped with a gas fire suppression system, with its cylinders located in a dedicated plant room. A significant element of the investment is also a Faraday cage – a specially designated zone protecting devices from electromagnetic interference. This space was constructed using steel panels embedded in the floor, walls and ceiling, while steel mesh was applied to the windows.
Recently, a power generator has been installed on the project premises, which will ensure uninterrupted operation for nearly 12 hours in the event of a power outage. The unit is equipped with an engine generating approximately 1,600 horsepower and a fuel tank with a capacity of around 4 m3.
‘Ahead of us is the final stage of the investment project’s delivery, which includes preparing the facility for handovers to the relevant authorities, landscaping along with green plantings, and conducting numerous tests and commissioning of all systems. This is a demanding process – some of the trials will take up to a dozen or so days,’ adds the Site Manager.
Following the redevelopment, the central part of the building will reach over 5,000 m2 of usable floor area, also encompassing plant and circulation areas, while the total floor area of the facility will exceed 6,000 m2. Upon completion of all works, Building S-1 will become one of the most state-of-the-art structures on the AGH campus, providing a backbone for scientific research, new technology projects and modern academic education. The building will have six storeys – five above ground and one underground – with a height of 22.5 metres. The investor is the AGH University of Krakow, and the General Contractor is the NDI Group.
