Clyde Companies Corporate Office Building

In order to provide Clyde Companies, a Utah-based company, with a modern, light-filled building that would accurately represent the company’s aesthetic principles, engineer and architect JM Williams and Associates had to think outside the box.

Careful consideration was given to the placement of windows for filtering in natural light—an 18-by-40-foot atrium was incorporated into the design, and walls were offset to allow for more light. However, on the western side of the building, they reduced the number of windows and also incorporated deep overhangs and a recessed two-story entry curtain wall to block harsh sunlight. On the other sides of the building, panels were sized not only with consideration for load support, but also optimum views.

The building’s location in an area of high seismic activity was also a top consideration, and sections of certain panels were removed, not only lightening the seismic load, but also further enhancing natural light and views.

The panels were integrally colored to match the surrounding environment, and interior exposed-aggregate walls in the lobby and atrium provide textural interest while paying homage to the firm’s line of work.

The innovative use of natural light, along with radiant-heated floors, help the building (the first three-story Tilt-Up office building constructed in the state of Utah) maintain energy efficiency.