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.