Located downtown, the 100 North Tampa building is a prominent piece of architecture in the city’s skyline. It is the tallest building in Tampa with 42 stories and 552,000 square feet of rentable space. Noted for its classic architecture, the tower also features distinctive interior details, including two murals by noted artist Richard Haas.

After completion, energy costs for the $108 million construction project were higher than expected. Management looked to Automated Building Controls Systems Inc. (ABC), a local KMC partner, to upgrade and integrate a computerized control system.

ABC designed and installed the requested system using KMC software and numerous programmable controllers. These controls monitor and respond to outside climate changes and maintain consistently comfortable temperatures throughout the building. The data from the different HVAC units are integrated into one common user interface, allowing for full HVAC control from a central computer with trend logging, system history, current events, timing capabilities, and alarm features.

The installed KMC products also “left the door open” for future systems integration. The building has twelve high-speed, computer-controlled elevators serving the office floors, as well as three equally sophisticated elevators linking the garage levels to the main lobby. These elevators, along with the time-controlled lighting system, are integrated into the KMC program.

During a follow-up visit, Doug Lawson, Chief Building Engineer, stated his continued satisfaction with the installed system, especially noting its ease of use.

“I hear, read, and see many claims related to controls and automation equipment. Surprisingly, many seem almost intended to intimidate through complexity. The ease-of-use of the KMC product line makes a welcome contrast. I’ve never been intimidated by KMC. The equipment (hardware and software) is simply easy to operate. Yet, it’s surprisingly powerful. For example, during our day-to-day operations, I am often asked for data regarding building performance. KMC makes it easy for me to offer intuitive reports or to compile data that satisfies the information demands.”