Yale University – MENA Cultural Center

CES provided comprehensive MEP, fire protection, lighting design, and commissioning services for the 4,000-square-foot renovation of Yale University’s Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) Cultural Center. Housed in a historic campus building, the revitalized space fosters community, learning, and cultural exchange, while honoring the architectural character of its surroundings.

The project featured the integration of advanced building systems within the constraints of a historic structure. A 10-ton hybrid VRF system and a 5,000 CFM dedicated outdoor air unit with an energy recovery wheel deliver high-efficiency heating, cooling, and ventilation to meet the comfort needs of the space. The design also included a new 15 HP fire pump, complete fire protection coverage, upgraded electrical service, and a new generator to ensure safety and reliability.

One of the project’s greatest challenges was navigating the limited space available for new systems while maintaining the integrity of the building’s historic fabric. Through meticulous coordination and creative engineering, CES successfully routed ductwork and fire protection piping without compromising aesthetics or performance. Executed over two summer phases to align with the academic calendar, the completed MENA Cultural Center now stands as a vibrant, sustainable hub that celebrates cultural identity and community at Yale.