Settlers Lodge

At Issue

Beaudin Ganze Consulting Engineers was asked to join the Architectural and Construction team to develop cost effective Mechanical and Electrical systems for a ski in/ski out lodge in Bachelor Gulch Village, Colorado. BGCE's goal was to develop the mechanical and electrical systems that maintained occupant comfort, required little maintenance, met the project budget, and perpetuated the elegance of Bachelor Gulch.

BGCE's Work

The firm responded to considerable budget constraints by designing the heating plant in conjunction with forced draft boilers, which allow for smaller equipment footprints and are ideal for high altitude installations. This system integration was capable of serving several functions, including the building heating, domestic water heating and snowmelt areas. Additionally, combining these systems into one plant reduced equipment area requirements, thus maximizing the building area available for user amenities, and ultimately, maximizing the Owner's selling proposition. The firm also developed a simplified heating water and domestic pipe distribution system to minimize maintenance and maintain system flexibility for future modifications. These design solutions struck the delicate balance between the Owner's needs and desires and the limitations of the project budget.

Client Benefits

• System functionality provides optimum occupant space comfort


• Energy efficient systems and low maintenance equipment translate into reduced O&M costs


• Systems specification was consistent with budget