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Gyrodata Global Headquarters

Rather than follow the conventional tilt-wall design process, which is to design an exterior building shell based upon a simple grid and then insert the interior layout into that shell, for the Gyrodata project the interior layout of the building was created first and the exterior design was then molded to that layout. Following this process allowed the architect to accomplish several of the client's goals, including a specific architectural aesthetic, the need for natural lighting, a large clear-span atrium and curtain-wall glazing at the entry with very high ceilings and clear spanning manufacturing and storage areas.

The non-modular dimensions of the exterior meant that each tilt-up panel had to be a different size (width), which in turn created potential difficulties in the construction process, from forming panels to lifting. To maximize natural light while maintaining the desired building aesthetic, the architects included a continuous-appearing expanse of glazing across the second story of the tilt-wall facade. They recessed each panel leg and ran spandrel glass in front of each leg. On the first floor, punched openings in those same panels were used to create a recessed walkway around the perimeter of the front and sides of the first floor office area.

To maximize the amount of open area, the need for additional steel structure as wall support was eliminated by reversing each panel leg profile, using a thin, deep panel leg in lieu of the typical wide and shallow leg. This also sped up the construction timeline and helped bring the overall construction cost down. Because of the services that Gyrodata offers, there was a strong desire to have very large spans in the manufacturing and warehouse areas of this building. By using standard tilt-wall design with modest panel thicknesses (approximately 9.25 inches) and long spanning girders, designers achieved a full 120-foot clear span manufacturing space and bridge crane. This allowed Gyrodata flexibility in organizing the manufacturing areas, helping them maximize their production and profits.

This project is expected to earn LEED Gold certification.

 
Main banner image for Gyrodata Global Headquarters

Project Location

Houston, TX 77095
United States

TILT-UP ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

The Tilt-Up Achievement Awards were established to honor projects that use site-cast tilt-up concrete to introduce new building types, advance industry technology and provide unique solutions to building programs. Winning entries illustrate the variety, beauty, and flexibility of tilt-up construction.

ACHIEVEMENT

2013

The world’s greatest tilt-up structures are featured by the TCA as Tilt-Up Achievement Award Winners. Learn more >

Project Images

TILT-UP TODAY MAGAZINE / PROJECTS IN THE NEWS

Project Team (TCA Members)

General Contractor:
E E Reed Construction LP
Concrete Contractor:
 
Architect:
 
Engineer:
 
Suppliers:
 
Photographer(s):

Project Specifics

Project Category:
Office
Building Types:
Finishes:
Features:
Insulation:
Environmental:
Number of Floors:
0
Tilt-Up Wall Area:
78,904 sq ft (7,330 sq m)
Total Floor Area:
155,000 sq ft (14,400 sq m)
Project Footprint:
115,000 sq ft (10,684 sq m)
Tallest Panel:
38 ft 7 in (11.76 m)
Widest Panel:
34 ft 1 in (10.39 m)
Largest Panel:
780 sq ft (72.5 sq m)
Heaviest Panel:
115,000 lbs (52,163 kg)
Recycled Content:
750 tons (US)