Value Store It - Boca Raton

Summarize the project's program, features and achievements?

This project presented a unique combination of logistical and architectural challenges that demanded innovative problem-solving and precise execution. Situated on a constrained site bordered by elevated roadways on two sides, the design team strategically increased the building’s elevation to nearly 40 feet, significantly enhancing its visibility from these prominent vantage points. This vertical prominence was further emphasized by the incorporation of open-corner feature towers, which anchored the building’s corners and reinforced its commanding architectural presence.

A standout architectural element was the installation of specially engineered 16-inch-thick cornice panels atop these towers. These bold cornices projected several feet beyond the tower edges, creating dramatic shadow lines that introduced depth and refined visual interest to the façade. Serving as both a unifying design feature and a distinctive architectural signature, the cornices elevated the building’s street-facing elevations, setting a new standard for architectural sophistication in this typology.

From a construction perspective, the project confronted significant operational challenges due to limited site access and space constraints. The crawler crane, unable to be positioned along the west side of the building as initially planned, required a carefully coordinated operation in which it was walked across the slab-on-grade (SOG). This unconventional crane maneuver showcased the team’s adaptability, meticulous logistical planning, and commitment to safety.

Additional complexity arose from the deep foundation work along the west elevation, necessitating a pour-back process to stabilize structural elements and requiring careful sequencing to avoid schedule delays. Moreover, the installation of precast building caps demanded a second mobilization and precise coordination, given their critical role in the structural system. The erection of the precast caps imposed further scheduling constraints, requiring a temporary delay of ongoing site work and the construction of an adjacent RV canopy. This challenge was met through proactive communication and collaboration among stakeholders, ensuring minimal disruption and maintaining progress on critical project activities.

Despite these multifaceted challenges, the project team successfully delivered a building that harmoniously blends functional performance with striking architectural character. The elevated form and distinctive tower features greatly enhance the building’s visibility and presence within its urban context, while the intricately designed cornices contribute an elevated level of architectural refinement rarely achieved in comparable projects.

This project exemplifies the seamless integration of visionary architectural design with innovative construction methodologies to overcome site limitations and complex scheduling demands. It stands as a testament to collaborative excellence, where the design and construction teams’ synergy delivered a landmark structure that balances technical complexity, aesthetic distinction, and operational efficiency.

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

One of the primary challenges on this project was the need to walk the crawler crane on top of the slab-on-grade (SOG), as the crane could not be maneuvered along the west side of the building. Additional constraints included the pour-back along the west elevation, which was impacted by the depth of the foundations, and the second mobilization required for the installation of the precast building caps.

The erection of the caps, in particular, posed a significant constraint, as it necessitated delaying both the site work and the construction of the RV canopy.

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

The project site was bordered by elevated roadways on two sides. To enhance the building’s visibility from these vantage points, the elevation of the structure was increased to nearly 40 feet. Prominent open-corner feature towers were incorporated at the building’s corners to reinforce its visual presence.

Atop these towers, specially designed 16-inch-thick cornice panels were installed to introduce distinctive architectural detail. These substantial cornice elements projected several feet outward, creating bold shadow lines that added depth and visual interest to the façade.