Rhode Island State House HVAC

KITE served as Preservation Architect in collaboration with Veolia to develop a design approach for the full replacement of the heating, cooling, and ventilation systems at the historically significant Rhode Island State House.

Our role focused on advising the project team on strategies to integrate new mechanical systems with minimal impact to the building’s historic fabric and architectural character. Working within the constraints of this National Historic Landmark, we evaluated how modern infrastructure could be introduced without compromising defining historic elements.

The feasibility study assessed nine HVAC upgrade configurations, including four central plant options—geothermal systems, air-source heat pumps, air-cooled chillers with boilers, and water-cooled chillers with boilers—each paired with two indoor distribution approaches: four-pipe terminal units or variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems. An additional option focused on upgrades limited to public spaces.

KITE Architects is a RI Certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and holds architectural registrations in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maryland and California.