Chapter 34 review Henshaw D Archimetrics Design Studio
53 South Union Street, Plainfield, MA 01070
Peter Lapointe, Architect 413-634-0091
archimetricsdesign@verizon.net
September 15, 2016
Louis Hasbrouck, Building Commissioner
City of Northampton
Northampton, MA 01060
RE: Enabling Neilson – 5 Building Renovations
CHAPTER 34 REVIEW
Henshaw D – 10 Henshaw Avenue 1st Floor 2640sf 2nd floor 3024 sf
Existing Use R-2 Proposed Use B
Construction Type 5B – Fully sprinkled
Overview: Henshaw D is an existing multifamily 4 town house unit constructed in the
1970’s being converted to a technology classroom and media production studio with
support facilities including six faculty offices. The four units will be connected into a
single facility with two means of egress from each floor.
The change in occupancy classification requires compliance with IEBC Chapter 9 as
follows:
903 through 906 require compliance with Section 912.
907: The existing floor framing (2x12 joists) is adequate for office loading (50 psf) as
defined in IBC Table 1607.1. Snow and wind loads are unchanged and no seismic
upgrades are required. Structural modifications include removal of part of the second
floor in one unit to provide a two story space to accommodate sets and lighting for the
production studio.
908: Electrical service upgrades, rewiring and new devices and LED lighting upgrades
are proposed throughout the building.
909: Heating, ventilating and A/C upgrades are proposed throughout the building.
Archimetrics Design Studio
53 South Union Street, Plainfield, MA 01070
Peter Lapointe, Architect 413-634-0091
archimetricsdesign@verizon.net
910: Plumbing facilities for both sexes, drinking fountains and service sinks are being
provided for each unit floor consistent with plumbing code requirements for the new
occupancy.
911: Light and ventilation requirements for new construction are met by proposed
exterior changes to doors and windows.
912.1.1: Compliance with Chapter 8 will be discussed by Section following the Chapter
9 review.
912.4: The Change in Occupancy reduces the Means of Egress Hazard Index from 3 to 4
requiring compliance with 912.4.2. The egress capacity meets requirements for new
construction and modifications to the existing open risers, handrails and guards are
proposed. Open riser will be eliminated and new closure panels will be added to the
open railing system.
912.5 & 6: The change of use to a lower hazard index deems the existing building
height and area and exterior wall construction to be acceptable.
912.7.2: Stairways: Changes to the existing open stairways are not required since there
is no increase in Egress Hazard Index. IBC Section 1022.1 exception 1 allows unenclosed
stairways when the occupant load for the stair is less than 10. The existing stairways
meet this requirement.
912.8: Accessibility requirements are met by proposed improvements to entrances and
the addition of an accessible restroom. Proposed first floor changes include dimensional
compliance for all doors. Public access and programs are all located on the first floor
with second floor spaces dedicated to faculty and faculty support services. The sound
booth and multi-purpose spaces on the second floor are proposed to be used only by
faculty and staff.
Chapter 8: The scope of alterations including structural changes and proposed exit and
emergency lighting is consistent with the requirements of Chapter 8. The proposed fire
alarm system and existing fire protection system exceed the requirements for new
construction.
Archimetrics Design Studio
53 South Union Street, Plainfield, MA 01070
Peter Lapointe, Architect 413-634-0091
archimetricsdesign@verizon.net
Chapters 6 & 7: Existing construction and proposed construction without exception
meet or exceed the requirements of these chapters for Repairs and Alterations.
Respectfully submitted,
Peter Lapointe