Autumn Hall Building 3

Summarize the project's program, features and achievements?

"Autumn Hall Building 3, a unique architectural feature in Wilmington, NC, is a testament to the fusion of contemporary design and construction innovation. It's part of the sprawling 236-acre mixed-use development of Autumn Hall, and its design journey was a masterclass in navigating complex challenges to seamlessly blend with existing and future structures.

Originally conceived as a conventional steel-framed structure, the project underwent a strategic shift to Tilt-Up construction, driven by the collaborative efforts of the Design-Build contractor, architect, and general contractor. The team's detailed visuals and presentations effectively convinced the owner, developer, and tenant that Tilt-Up construction was the best choice, given the project's time and budget constraints.

Architecturally, the building is a visual delight, with its embedded thin brick carefully selected to match the area's neighboring colors, blends, and coursing patterns. The exterior is adorned with EIFS cornices and recessed brick bands, while accent panels add depth to the elevations with their 12-inch panel thickness and lapped nature. The accent panels also feature 4-inch deep recesses and 20-inch wide legs on each side of a 29-foot high opening. Fin panels designate a recessed secondary entry, while an EIFS-clad roof screen structure enhances the building's distinctive appearance on the building's prominent corner.

Totaling 33,966 square feet on a 16,717-square-foot footprint, this Class-A office building also includes a 368-square-foot balcony at the request of its second-floor tenant. While this added complexity to the floor plan and structural frame, the design successfully preserves Autumn Hall's signature Cape Fear heritage architecture with a modern coastal twist, blending in seamlessly with the surrounding buildings.

Autumn Hall Building 3 successfully integrates complex design and construction methods, achieving functional and aesthetic goals. This project showcases innovative building techniques and enhances the community's lifestyle and amenities, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Autumn Hall."

What obstacles were overcome related to the schedule, budget, program, specification, site, etc. on this project?

"Each construction project has its unique set of challenges. Autumn Hall Building 3 encountered several obstacles, including scheduling conflicts and budget constraints. One major challenge was the limited crane access, which required innovative solutions to maneuver a 330-ton crawler within the confined site. Driving on the building's slab became necessary to prioritize site safety and efficiency during panel erection while ensuring project progress. Working together, the contractor and crane operator developed a plan to protect a portion of the slab and allow for less critical panel lifts.

With the shift from traditional steel-framed and brick-clad construction used on the surrounding buildings, the team aimed to showcase Tilt-Up's adaptability and commitment to delivering quality results. Meticulous attention to detail and adherence to strict standards were essential in integrating within Autumn Hall's signature architecture. The project team demonstrated dedication to creativity, collaboration, and determination while delivering a remarkable achievement that symbolizes innovation and perseverance in construction excellence. "

Please communicate any engineering complexities or unique features of the panel design for this project?

"Central to Autumn Hall Building 3's design are lapped panels, a Tilt-Up elevator, and a stair shaft, which blend functionality with aesthetic appeal. However, the engineering solutions for the exterior balcony truly elevate the building's visual allure. To accommodate a raised pedestal paver system over a membrane-covered SOMD at the exterior balcony, the design involved dropping W24 framing members, which support the main second floor, balcony floor beams, and exterior columns. Single-story Tilt-Up panels play a crucial role in supporting the floor framing and these exterior columns while allowing the building's corner to feature large expanses of glazing and openness. These unusually loaded panels required meticulous engineering to allow for 19' and 26' wide openings below while supporting the complex loads from above.

Autumn Hall Building 3 is a testament to the collaborative efforts of architects, engineers, and builders. To meet the client's vision, timeline, and budget, the project team worked together to navigate various complexities and create a successful structure through innovative design and meticulous planning."

What is the potential for this project's impact on the community and/or environment?

"Autumn Hall Building 3 promises significant positive impacts on the community and the environment. As the latest addition to a planned five-building mixed-use development, it aims to create a vibrant hub for the local community. An event lawn facilitates outdoor dining, recreation, and special events. At the same time, the surrounding park ensures Autumn Hall remains lively and active both day and night, with retail, residential, and office spaces.

The development's buildings and spaces are designed to attract a carefully curated tenant mix and meet the high standards of its active lifestyle audience. Integrated seamlessly into the Cross City Trail System, the Autumn Hall campus includes over a mile of trail, award-winning landscapes, and tree preservation efforts. These features enhance the community's quality of life and promote environmental sustainability. By blending innovative design with a commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, Autumn Hall Building 3 sets a new standard for mixed-use developments in Wilmington, NC."