Category: Blog

Stolen Fire: Zephyr’s Gift- Air as an Element of Design 

Stolen Fire: Zephyr’s Gift- Air as an Element of Design  A woman in a white shirt stands by an open window, looking outside. She is reflected in the glass. A man in a gray shirt stands partially out of frame.

Have you ever walked into a room that felt stuffy or had an odd smell? That’s often a sign of poor air circulation, and it’s where ventilation plays a critical role.  Modern buildings are built to be highly energy-efficient, which means they’re tightly sealed to prevent unwanted heat loss or gain. But with that efficiency […]

VP Engineering Announces Daniel Payne as a National Green Building Standard (NGBS) Verifier

VP Engineering Announces Daniel Payne as a National Green Building Standard (NGBS) Verifier Wooden house cutout with leaf designs on a green grass background.

With a continued focus on sustainable building practices and delivering energy-efficient MEP designs, VP Engineering is proud to announce that Senior Project Manager, Daniel Payne, is a National Green Building Standard (NGBS) Verifier. This NGBS service offering not only highlights VP Engineering’s dedication to sustainability and green building practices but also underscores our commitment to […]

Stolen Fire: The Hidden Heat: Tackling Mold & Mildew in Multifamily Buildings

Stolen Fire: The Hidden Heat: Tackling Mold & Mildew in Multifamily Buildings Woman in a yellow sweater adjusts a smart thermostat on the wall, holding a smartphone. A child is in the background, sitting and reading a book.

Mold and mildew are persistent challenges in multifamily residential buildings, impacting occupant health, property values, and operational costs. The following outlines key considerations for architects, developers, owners, operators, and managers, focusing on the critical role of HVAC systems in mitigating mold and mildew growth. From design and construction to ongoing maintenance and tenant education, a […]

Designing for the Future: Technology Integration in Modern Senior Living Facilities

Designing for the Future: Technology Integration in Modern Senior Living Facilities An elderly woman in a wheelchair using a laptop.

As the senior living industry evolves, there’s been a significant shift from institutional needs to prioritizing the comfort and care of residents. To address this shift, modern assisted living facilities now integrate state-of-the-art technology to meet these expectations and enhance the delivery of care. With over 70 million baby boomers nearing an age suitable for […]

Below the Surface: Examining the Differences Between Commercial and Single-Family Residential MEP Design

Below the Surface: Examining the Differences Between Commercial and Single-Family Residential MEP Design An underwater view of a rock arch in the ocean.

On the surface, the components comprising commercial and residential mechanical engineering design, electrical engineering design and plumbing engineering design (MEP) appear similar. Whether the scope consists of an architecturally creative design, retro-fit work, a complex renovation or upgrades to an existing system, the two specialties both must adhere to strict building regulations. However, this is […]

What Are Low Voltage Systems? [And Why Do You Need to Understand Them?] 

What Are Low Voltage Systems? [And Why Do You Need to Understand Them?]  A person is using a contactless card for an electronic access low voltage system

In the intricate world of building design and construction, the term “low voltage systems” frequently surfaces, often surrounded by a bit of ambiguity.   What exactly are these systems, and why are they crucial in modern buildings?   In this article, we share the fundamentals of low voltage systems, and help you better understand their […]

Success in Construction: The Role of Plumbing Engineering

Success in Construction: The Role of Plumbing Engineering A plumber is working on a pipe in a bathroom.

In the intricate world of construction, where every detail counts, plumbing engineering emerges as a crucial element ensuring the seamless operation of water systems in commercial and residential buildings.   When starting any construction project, the expertise of a plumbing engineer becomes indispensable. In this article, we share the importance of plumbing engineering, and what to […]

What to Consider When Selecting an MEP Engineering Firm 

What to Consider When Selecting an MEP Engineering Firm  A multimeter and other tools on top of blueprints.

MEP engineering plays a crucial role in the success of construction projects, making the choice of an engineering firm pivotal. The significance of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems cannot be overstated, as they form the backbone of any structure—ensuring functionality, efficiency, and sustainability. In the vast landscape of MEP engineering firms, selecting a reputable partner […]

Recent Changes to Florida Building Codes 

Recent Changes to Florida Building Codes  A man in orange gloves is working on electrical wiring.

Disclaimer: This article provides an overview of recent changes to the Florida Building Code, 8th Edition, in 2023. It is not legal advice, and professionals should thoroughly review code changes independently for specific applications.  Florida’s building codes form the backbone of structural safety and resilience in the state. To keep structures as safe as possible […]

Sanjay Patel Shares What Makes VP Engineering an Exceptional Place to Work

Sanjay Patel Shares What Makes VP Engineering an Exceptional Place to Work A group of people eating at an outdoor table.

Interview with Sanjay Patel, PE, Associate Principal With nearly two decades of engineering experience, Sanjay Patel has long been a leader at VP Engineering. As the firm’s Associate Principal, Sanjay oversees staff to ensure complex engineering projects exceed client expectations and are completed on time and within budget. Sanjay is also a professional engineer and […]