Littoral Warfare Research Complex

Haskell chose Tilt-Up for the Research Complex because of its inherent resistance to blast impact, and its ability to satisfy the government-mandated progressive collapse requirements. In the post 9/11 environment, both are important elements that entail a unique structural design, allowing for redistribution of floor loads in the event of a sudden failure to a primary exterior supporting element.

The facility serves as a laboratory for research and development of high tech warfare instruments; therefore, Haskell worked closely with Navy personnel to ensure the flow and lay-out relationships were the most efficient.

Brick served as the primary façade treatment, yet some Tilt-Up panels were exposed to differentiate the functions of the interior spaces. Brick clads the heart of the facility: the labs, research and testing areas. Tilt-Up clads the servant spaces: the elevators, stairs, offices and observation rooms.

The purpose of the waterfront facility is to provide launch and recovery capabilities for various research platforms. It is equipped with a bridge crane, water test tanks, dock, and hoist and boat ramps.

Throughout the construction phases, five named storms, including Hurricanes Dennis and Ivan, directly hit the site. In spite of this, Haskell stayed within the contractual budget and timeline of the complex.

This project has been awarded an Excellence in Construction award by the Associated Builders and Contractors First Coast Chapter and the National Design-Build Award for the best public sector building under $15 million from the Design Build Institute of America.