Expertise

Since 1930, van Zelm has been developing unsurpassed solutions for the design of mechanical and electrical engineering systems in the built environment.

Each project presents unique challenges and opportunities, and we apply our considerable experience to each seeking innovative solutions consistent with the client’s requirements. Our attention to detail, our energy-conscious approach, our prompt resolution of construction problems, and follow-up even beyond construction, result in successful outcomes for our clients.

van Zelm’s focus on integrity was instilled in the firm by our founder. Integrity – linked with innovation – results in superior designs, tighter quality control, and consistent communication. We know that our dedication to integrity and trust are every bit as important as innovative engineering design. We believe this staunch commitment ensures that our firm, like our projects, will endure.

On the Boards
In Construction
Featured

Cultural

Committed to sustainable design principles and practices since the 1980’s, van Zelm helps clients optimize the efficiency of their energy utilization while reducing their environmental footprint. For both new and existing facilities, create cost-effective and sustainable solutions for our customers.
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Healthcare

For decades, van Zelm has worked independently and in team collaborations on many projects for New England healthcare facilities. We are experienced in serving the needs of community health centers, hospitals, research institutions, as well as specialized healthcare facilities.
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Amherst College Science Center

Higher Education

van Zelm has been designing building systems for higher education settings that facilitate learning, exploration, and growth since 1930. We consider the infrastructure implications of each college campus and tailor our approach to meet each institution’s particular needs and requirements.
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Historic & Adaptive Reuse

Conservation of historic buildings is significant to a society for protecting its cultural resources and preserving valuable heritage. Upgrading building services and systems requires creativity to respect the original design and materials while meeting applicable codes and occupant needs.
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Industrial

From manufacturing to mission-critical, van Zelm offers extensive experience in the design of customized systems to support high-tech industrial facilities. Our innovative and team-based solutions provide our clients with the high level of performance and flexibility they require.
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K-12 Public Schools

Our experience includes renovation, expansion, and new construction for public, charter, and magnet schools. We provide designs for special uses such as libraries, media centers, athletic facilities, pools, theaters, arts centers and laboratories, as well as computer rooms, offices and classrooms.
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Power & Utilities

With over 90+ years of experience in the design of mechanical and electrical systems for central and distributed power systems, our clients look to us for proficiency in designing district energy solutions for electric, steam, and chilled/hot water.
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Private Schools

We have extensive experience designing flexible, sustainable, and forward-looking solutions for our private and independent school clients. Providing safe, comfortable, unique, and flexible spaces is essential for students that range in age from Kindergarten through Grade 12 has been our specialty since 1930.
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Capewell - Interior

Residential

We specialize in the design of energy efficient mechanical and electrical systems for commercial and academic residential buildings. As industry leaders in sustainable MEP design, we help reduce our carbon footprint in the structures where we live, work and play.
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Science

Laboratory environments require flexibility while providing for the future demands of research scientists and technicians. We have contributed to the design of award-winning LEED and Living Building certified teaching and research facilities with extraordinary energy conservation and efficiency.
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Sustainable Design

A proponent of sustainable design principles and practices since the 1980’s, van Zelm helps clients evaluate existing facilities to provide energy conservation strategies, or plan sustainably designed new facilities to optimize energy efficiency while reducing their environmental footprint.
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Workplace

Workplace environments are vital to attracting and retaining quality employees. Projects vary can include gathering areas, meeting rooms, agile space, fitness, and assembly rooms. Design strategies focus on creating an activity-based collaboration environment and workspace for individual employees and teams.
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