Evolution: TCA Announces Winners of International Competition
Evolution—it is the mark that identifies quality in professionals and it is the evidence that substantiates building technology. The process of evolution can be so dramatic at times that observation leaves you with the sense of “what more can be done?” Professionals in the Tilt-Up industry have once again risen to the challenge. Tilt-Up form and function has resolved complex challenges in interior as well as exterior structural elements. Curved panels and faceted elevations continue to efficiently shape programs into interesting and pleasing spaces, as well as icons to new establishments.
As Tilt-Up enters the next phase of growth, evolution must continue to diversify the imagery of available architectural styles along with the physical and material composition used to create the individual pieces. Clearly suited for such a broad spectrum of applications, Tilt-Up achieves the maximum envelope sensitivity to space and appearance, while minimizing the impact to budget and schedule for today’s building owner.
Excellence in Achievement:
St. Louis University Walk-
9,500-square-foot special project in Saint Louis, Mo. Submitted by: Concrete Strategies of Saint Louis, Mo. Other TCA member involvement: Alper Audi. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Nox-Crete Products Group, White Cap Construction Supply and Greenstreak Group.
Originally designed as a cast-in-place structure, the 550-foot walkway connecting Saint Louis University’s new Edward A. Doisy Research Center with the campus’s other medical facilities was converted to Tilt-Up to save time and money, while making gains in safety and quality. Having provided concrete services for the core and shell of the attached research center, Concrete Strategies was a natural choice to construct the arched, brick-clad walkway. To place each of the 50,000-pound arched panels, Concrete Strategies designed a special rigging system that would lift the panels flat from the casting bed and then rotate them plumb in the air. In addition to this special consideration, the contractor also had to account for the fact that the walkway moved uphill, which required all of the panels to be poured, lifted and placed simultaneously. To accommodate the cast brick slots necessary for the panels’ exterior brick façade, Concrete Strategies used a lintel beam to support the load of the brick. The finished walkway, featuring interior and exterior radius reveals, complemented the existing buildings while making a bold statement. The project also utilized self-consolidating concrete in order to achieve the high quality finish of the Tilt-Up panels.
Ave Maria University Oratory–
24,000-square-foot spiritual building in Ave Maria Towne, Fla. Submitted by: Woodland Construction Company of Jupiter, Fla. Other TCA member involvement: Concrete Constructioneers. Products for this project supplied by: Universal Building Products and Nox-Crete Products Group.
To create an oratory building on the campus of Ave Maria University that would not only provide an anchor between the college and the town, but also lend an Italian architectural air, the university looked to the versatility and durability of Tilt-Up concrete. Building on extensive experience overseeing the construction of many other structures on campus, Woodland Construction was hired to build the oratory. The complicated structure, which features cast recesses and integral returns, required two years of planning, including preliminary panel designs and constructability studies, prior to construction. Each panel was designed with a 5-foot-radius return wall, and all of the panels had to be welded to a steel frame that soared more than 100 feet above the finished floor.
While the large, heavy panels were an asset in that they solved a structural uplift challenge, both forming the layered panels (which were poured in three mobilizations to achieve a three-dimensional effect) and lifting them into place (which was done with a 300-ton crane, and required embeds consisting of 1-inch steel tubes attached to 8 feet of rebar) proved to be a challenge for the contractor. Once the panels were placed, an imported Italian stone block finish was applied to the exterior to match the Italian aesthetic of the surrounding buildings. The completed oratory seats 1,110 people and is the centerpiece of both Ave Maria University and the surrounding town.
Office Category:
3949 Forest Parkway-
30,578-square-foot office building in Wheatfield, N.Y. Submitted by: Calamar of Wheatfield, N.Y. Other TCA member involvement: LJB Inc. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products and Scott System.
The owner of 30,578-square-foot 3949 Forest Parkway wanted a signature building that would be suitable for corporate headquarters. Tilt-Up, already a staple in this business park, was selected because of the energy efficiency, durability and architectural variety that method provides.
Using a combination of 24,000 embedded thin bricks, this one-story office building is accented by a curved glass entryway. Constructed in only 270 days, the use of a higher strength concrete and admixtures resulted in faster set time and the necessary strength required for lifting during the harsh winter months. Because of the irregular footprint of the floor slab, there was not enough room to cast the 34 7,500-pound pilasters and caps. These decorative pieces were cast off site and transported to the jobsite to be erected.
Biosite Inc. Headquarters Campus-
335,000-square-foot corporate headquarters complex in San Diego, Calif. Submitted by: Architects | Delawie Wilkes Rodrigues Barker of San Diego, Calif. Other TCA member involvement: Hope Engineering. Products for this project supplied by: Dayton Superior Corporation and Nox-Crete Products Group.
For Biosite Inc., a San Diego diagnostics device manufacturer, the decision to use Tilt-Up as the primary method of construction for the first phase of their headquarters was an easy one: Not only would it allow buildings to be walled in quickly for the accelerated construction of laboratories and clean production areas, but Tilt-Up’s architectural versatility could also give them the elegant Bauhaus-style lines they desired for their facilities. Keeping in mind the project’s aesthetic requirements, Architects | Delawie Wilkes Rodrigues Barker took a minimalist approach with simply detailed panels, the design of which is repeated in some of the building’s other signature elements, such as the patterned skylights found throughout the structure. The owner also desired buildings that could serve a variety of needs, so the design team created open spaces composed of Tilt-Up walls and steel-framed floors and roofs to allow the buildings to be adapted from warehouse to office to laboratory as the needs of the company change. This meant accounting for heavy roof loads in all buildings, as well as a removed second level in certain structures, both of which presented a challenge. To meet these unique requirements, the panels were varied in thickness (from 91⁄4 to 131⁄4 inches) and incorporate deep reveals, recesses and multiple setbacks around the buildings’ perimeters. Since all four buildings were constructed simultaneously, the pouring and lifting of the panels had to be carefully planned. Once the panels were erected, the exteriors were painted white with red and blue accents to reflect the company’s corporate colors. Winner of an ACI Tilt-Up Building Award, this 335,000-square-foot project represents the initial phase in a planned 800,000- square-foot campus development for Biosite Inc.
BTV Crown Corporate Center-
120,000-square-foot office building in Sacramento, Calif. Submitted by: Panattoni Construction, Inc. of Sacramento, Calif. Products for this project supplied by: Dayton Superior Corporation, Nox-Crete Products Group, Textured Coatings of America, Inc. and Greenstreak Group.
When constructing the shell for 120,000 square feet of office space at the BTV Crown Corporate Center, the biggest challenges that Panattoni Construction, Inc. faced came courtesy of Mother Nature. The panels were poured in sweltering 100-degree heat, necessitating the use of a water-piped sprinkler system over blankets with water and air misters. Not only that, but high wind conditions during construction forced Panattoni to take extra precautions to ensure the panels (the heaviest of which weighed nearly 150,000 pounds) could be safely erected. The building is defined by an 1,800-square-foot metal panel canopy that required a collaborated effort to discuss best methods of construction with the structural engineer and architect in order to develop cost effective and timely installation of the metal panel canopy. The cool lines of the metal are repeated in stainless steel glass wall panels and a stainless steel stair railing, and provide a nice contrast with the dimensioned stone tile walls on the building’s exterior.
Clyde Companies Corporate Office Building-
34,000-square-foot office building in Orem, Utah. Submitted by: JM Williams and Associates, Inc. of Salt Lake City, Utah. Other TCA member involvement: Robinson Brothers Construction. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products.
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.
Highland Oaks III-
105,453-square-foot office building in Tampa, Fla. Submitted by: Tilt-Con Corporation of Altamonte Springs, Fla. Other TCA member involvement: Steinbicker and Associates.
To create a Tilt-Up office building that would blend in seamlessly with the other brick buildings in a Class A office park, Tilt-Con devoted meticulous attention to detail. After working closely with the general contractor to convert the building from block to Tilt-Up construction, Tilt-Con made sure the structure’s thin-brick veneer was up to par by molding it with a special formliner and ensuring quality control of the masonry joints. Adding to the architectural challenges were the difficulties of an aggressive schedule and a tight site with 100-year-old oak trees that had to be protected. Tilt- Con dealt with the space limitations by reusing casting slabs, carefully placing the casting beds around the trees, and working long hours with multiple crews to complete the project on time. The three-story building is highlighted by a radius entry with large brick columns featuring EFIS bands and precast medallion accent pieces.
Highland Oaks V-
101,985-square-foot office facility in Tamp, Fla. Submitted by: Seretta Construction, Inc. of Apopka, Fla. Products for this product supplied by: Dayton Superior Corporation.
The owners of the Highland Oaks V wanted an office facility that possessed award-winning architectural design. Tilt-Up panels were used to achieve a brick deco look that was durable and economical. All panels were cast on-site for the three-story 101,985-square-foot facility with custom hand-laid, in-lay brick details. Since the Tilt-Up wall area was greater than the building slab area, two casting slabs on either side of the building were constructed. The panels could not be stacked, because the exterior details were so complex. The thin-set, clay-fired brick was set by hand in brick forms on the outside face of the panels. Accent brick had to be customarily placed to fit each horizontal window frame. To accommodate numerous panel openings, full- height strong-backs were transferred forward to expedite Tilt-Up erection. To create the look of a modular brick building, multiple configurations of brick coursing was used including running bond, stack bond and soldier coursing. Throughout the first and second floors, tan coursing brick gave the facility a natural look. Highland Oaks V is also a recipient of an Eagle Award from the Association of Builders and Contractors for the 2007 Excellence in Construction Awards program. The Eagle Award is the highest honor awarded in its category.
One Mansfield Crossing-
45,000-square-foot office building in Spokane Valley, Wash. Submitted by: DIVCON, Inc. of Spokane, Wash. Other TCA member involvement: DCI Engineers. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Nox-Crete Products Group and Scott System.
When the owner of the office building at One Mansfield Crossing selected Tilt-Up construction, saving money was the primary driver, but maintaining architectural quality was also a major consideration. The project’s architect, who had never worked with Tilt-Up construction before, designed a brick façade, segmented radius building that incorporated relief panels to add visual interest. To conceive this challenging design, DIVCON used 11 5/8-inch panels with varying depths of foam recesses. Because of the curved-wall design, careful consideration had to be taken when laying out the panels to make sure they would all fit together correctly and that all the reveals would be consistent once the panels were erected. To match the columns on the trellis entry to the panels’ brick façade, thin brick was installed on three sides of the column form and then wet-set on the remaining side as the concrete was placed. This building, an architectural beacon in the suburban Spokane Valley area, is one of the flagship structures in Mirabeau Point, an 80-acre mixed-use development visible from Interstate 90.
Peninsula Corporate Center-
47,190-square-fot office facility in Boca Raton, Fla. Submitted by: Kenneth R. Carlson – Architect P.A. of Deerfield Beach, Fla. TCA Member Involvement: Builders Plus, BA Group, Inc. and BBM Structural Engineers. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Nox-Crete Products Group and Textured Coastings of America.
The developer of the Peninsula Corporate Center in Boca Raton, Fla., designed this facility to achieve maximized use of the two-acre site. It was the owner’s desire to create a structure capable of withstanding hurricane force winds. Tilt-Up construction was used to ensure a durable, low-maintenance facility. This method was applied to erect the building’s frame, which required recessed panel sections with tubular metal design frames and heavy textured paint to emphasize revealed panel sections. Additionally, built-up precast capping, medallions applied to stand off panels, and precast decorative masonry block added to the building’s unique style and form. The single three-story building, composed of six rectangular building components, is linked together with a covered arcade that encompasses a central courtyard. This intentional layout allows for great natural ventilation and encourages harvesting natural lighting in each of the building’s tenant spaces.
With a small group of office spaces available for lease, the plans called for an individualized design scheme for certain areas of the facility. The color-scheme remained consistent with a natural theme. The upper two-stories are a bold mustard yellow color accented with precast block railings and tile insert panels. The color-scheme was highlighted with the precast medallions. The exterior street fenestration was capped with a high ribbed metal mansard and gable roof. The interior courtyard is enclosed with a Tilt-Up arcade. The panels simulate columns, and the courtyard’s open-air style incorporates a sense of nature with passion vines growing from various site-cast concrete planters.
Petra Inc.–
8,056-square-foot office building in Meridian, Idaho. Submitted by: Petra Incorporated of Meridian, Idaho. Other TCA member involvement: Pinnacle Engineers. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Innovative Brick System, LLC and Benjamin Moore and Company.
When it came time for Petra Inc., a general contractor with more than 24 years of experience using self-performed Tilt-Up construction, to build its new corporate headquarters, the contractor put its experience to the test to create a one-of-a-kind Tilt-Up structure. To entice potential clients with the possibilities of Tilt-Up, Petra designed a structure with maximum curb appeal, including an exterior brick veneer and dramatic cutouts at the tops of the exterior panels. To create the perfect imitation of brick, Petra constructed several test panels and paid special attention to detail when installing the brick veneer and insulation. Inside, the roof and a 20- by-20-foot skylight are supported by Tilt-Up beams (etched with the images of local mountain ranges), which were lifted into place with the help of two cranes. Numerous floor-to-ceiling windows, featuring high-performance glass, flood the building with natural light and provide a pleasant working environment. A showcase of innovative Tilt-Up techniques, Petra’s corporate headquarters provides its clients with a living testament to the possibilities of Tilt-Up construction.
South Park 1400-
18,208-square-foot office building in Orlando, Fla. Submitted by: Seretta Construction, Inc. of Apopka, Fla. Other TCA member involvement: Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC.
When contracted to construct a three-story office building in the South Park Center n Orlando, Fla., Seretta Construction faced some exacting requirements that presented plenty of construction challenges. To start, the owner had requested that the panels be erected without leave-out strips for a seamless fit, requiring Seretta to form the slab edge so it would fit perfectly flush with the ground-floor openings and the inside of the Tilt-Up wall, leaving little room for error. The building’s unique reveals (comprising one mile of the total surface area) were also atypical — instead of 45-degree beveled strips, they were 1-inch deep with a 1/4-inch bevel. The panel joints were also designed to resemble the reveals, disguising them and adding further architectural interest to the structure. in addition to the slab and Tilt-Up walls, Seretta also constructed the foundations, upper floors and roof slab for the 118,208-square-foot building, which received and Award of Merit for Excellence in Construction from the Association of Builders and Contractors in Center Florida.
Torrey Reserve West-
120,000-square-foot office building in San Diego, Calif. Submitted by: BPA Architecture Planning Interiors of San Diego, Calif. TCA member involvement: Sundt Construction.
The owner of the Torrey Reserve West wanted a Class A office building suitable for a variety of corporate users. As such, diversity and curb appeal were key and Tilt-Up proved to be the optimal solution. With its hilltop location, limited driving access and steep terrain, the project presented substantial obstacles including extensive site work and the demolition of existing structures. In addition, the site was designated as an environmentally-sensitive area by the San Diego Coastal Commission. The native vegetation was carefully accommodated by creating a buffer zone between the plants and the parking garage.
Another unique requirement imposed by the Coastal Commission regulations was a 30-foot maximum height limit for buildings. This meant that the 120,000 square feet of office space, which is sectioned into three 40,000- square-foot buildings, had to be designed as a two-story structure. Such low-rise structures raise concerns for corporate clients desiring visibility and site prominence. The architect responded by creating a hierarchical layered pattern at the entryway of raised earthwork, concrete and CMU retaining walls, as well as an archway. The elements work together to give the project a taller appearance. The steep contours were used advantageously by the designer to create a grand entry driveway. Natural tones for the concrete and natural metal colors were selected.
Vaulted roof overhands, craftsman-like metal detailing and a concrete framed bridge serve as the special focus near the automobile entry. The central autocourt links each building with a curvilinear gesture culminating in rounded entry lobbies and the subtle use of curvilinear paving patterns, soffits and arches are blended to weave a harmonious complex with the hillside location. Each lobby features a two-story rotunda, intricately soffitted translucent skylights and upgraded finish materials. The desirability of the location and design elements allowed the buildings to be leased substantially above the aver- age rates for the area in which it was located.
Two Water Stone Place-
81,000-square-foot corporate office facility in Cincinnati, Ohio. Submitted by: CON/STEEL Tilt-Up Systems, Inc. of Dayton, OH. Other TCA member involvement: Miller-Valentine Group and LJB, Inc. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Dayton Superior Corporation and Nox-Crete Products Group.
Miller-Valentine, owner of the project, wanted to advance its commercial division by combining two Cincinnati-area offices into one location. To meet sustainable design goals, Tilt-Up construction materials were selected, which have an impressive economic cycle and offer long-term durability. Sustainable design practices included geothermal cooling, vegetative swales to collect run-off water, an energy-recovery HVAC system and preservation of existing vegetated areas. The 81,000- square-foot three-story building required oversized joists and additional beam lines to create the unique third floor. Tilt-Up two-story panels were constructed first. Recessed 12 feet from the building edge, one-story panels were then constructed on the elevated slab of the third floor. The recessed side entries include two 32-foot, three-story columns. Oversized foundations and coordination with joint caulking were required for the 15-foot tapered concrete buttresses, attached to panels on the first floor.
To create a unique look, two types of post-applied precast stone — Rockcast and Coronado — were used, as well as two different shades of paint in earth tone colors. The dramatic entry features the precast stone on angled Tilt-Up panels. It is complemented with an octagonal-shaped roof, as well as an arched canopy over a balcony area. Around the entire building, aluminum mansard, barrel and hip style roofs were installed. The ground-level accents include large concrete tapered buttresses to create the appropriate shape and limit the use of stone. Fabric awnings were placed above windows on spandrel panels.
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Corporate Headquarters-
330,000-square-foot office building in Frederick, Md. Submitted by: Morgan-Keller, Inc. of Frederick, Md. Other TCA member involvement: LJB, Inc. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products and Nox-Crete Products Group.
Completed in record time, the Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Corporate Headquarters is one of the largest multi-story, Class-A office Tilt-Up buildings in Maryland. A strict time schedule was of prime importance for the project. Tilt-Up methods were applied in phases to ensure critical deadlines were met. To allow for the rapid erection of a substantial amount of steel, Morgan-Keller developed a detailed plan for construction of the Tilt-Up panels. The plan required more than 30,000 square feet of concrete casting beds. By breaking the casting beds after the panels were tilted, the concrete was recycled and used for paving a sub-base. Heavily-reinforced concrete columns were used to resolve the design of large panel openings.
Designed in a radial fashion, the three rectangular buildings are joined by two curvilinear atriums. Viewed as a unique approach, a “low-E” reflective curtain glazing of tan and brown tones was used throughout the front and rear elevations of the rectangle buildings. To reduce excessive panel face forming, an EIFS system was used. The EIFS system allows for an interesting relief on the face of the building. The buildings bend around a large sediment basin, which will become an attractive storm water management pond for the site’s landscape. It will include water features visible from the employees’ dining area. A large exterior courtyard area includes flagstone stamped concrete sidewalks, stone planters, a natural rock water fountain and elaborate landscaped areas.
Corporate Headquarters Complex Category:
American LaFrance Office and Warehouse Facility-
59,110-square-foot and 449,850-square-foot buildings on a corporate headquarters complex in Summerville, S.C. Submitted by: Seretta Construction Mid-Atlantic, LLC. Other TCA member involvement: Merriman Schmitt Architecture. Products for this project supplied by: Dayton Superior Corporation, Innovative Brick Systems, LLC and Greenstreak Group.
In celebration of its 175th anniversary, emergency vehicle manufacturer American LaFrance wanted a corporate office complex that would pay homage to its past, while equipping it for the future. They selected a Tilt-Up design with a vintage firehouse aesthetic, and chose Seretta Construction Mid-Atlantic, to construct the 59,110-square-foot office building and 449,850-square-foot warehouse. The office building is highlighted by two 51-foot-tall brick inlay panels, connected by two spandrel panels at the top and eight accent panels at the base. The brick motif continues on the interior with exposed Tilt-Up panels featuring arched reveals and brick inlay. To create the wood radius reveals, Seretta’s drafting team created CAD drawings of the reveals, which were then milled to perfection. Leading to the building’s retail space, Seretta poured an old-style city sidewalk inside the building that features hand-tooled joints and an integral curb.
In total, the project is comprised of 141 panels, using more than 18,000 cubic yards of concrete and was completed on schedule in 150 days despite many inclement weather delays. American LaFrance Office and Warehouse recently was the recipient of an Award of Merit from the Association of Builders and Contractors of The Carolinas for their 2007 Excellence in Construction Awards program.
Catalfumo Construction Headquarters-
133,143-square-foot corporate headquarters facility in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. Submitted by: Builders Plus, Inc. of Boynton Beach, Fla. and Johnson Structural Group of Deerfield Beach, Fla. Other TCA member involvement: Catalfumo Construction, Johnson Structural Group, and BA Group, Inc. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products and Nox-Crete Products Group.
Located in the PGA corridor in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., owners wanted a headquarters with dynamic design. The speed and quality of Tilt-Up was used to meet the complex building and design requirements. With an exquisite three-story central area flanked on the sides by two-story elements, Tilt-Up panels needed large openings to allow for office circulation. The panels had to be braced to the inside and outside of the facility. This created construction congestion and challenges during the panel and floor erection process. To remedy these challenges, the interior three-story panels were brought to the ground as load bearing and wind resisting elements. Front entry to the 133,143-square-foot headquarters consists of three sets of stacked Tilt-Up panels supported by steel columns that are wrapped with architectural precast to create a faux third-story balcony. The rear balcony, which fronts the main road, has 16-inch thick arched panels that support the second floor balcony. The front and back façades have balconies that are accessible on the second floor and feature elements on the third floor.
Full of vigor, the applied architectural precast elements include precast moldings, keystones, precast railings and precast column wraps. The color-scheme features are creams and beiges with a light mustard yellow accent used on the main feature elements. These are topped with a multi-color red tile roof. Lit up at night, the 60-foot exit stair Tilt-Up panels were used to create tower elements. The entire hipped mansard roof line has intermediate pop-up tower features that create interest on all sides of the building. The roof overhang is accented with dentils. The interior of the headquarters resembles an “intimate” setting, similar to a smaller office facility.
Johnson Health Technologies-
225,000-square-foot corporate headquarters complex in Madison, Wis. Submitted by: Newcomb Construction Inc. of Madison, Wis. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Nox-Crete Products Group and Composite Technologies Corporation.
With a September groundbreaking date for a new corporate headquarters for the Wisconsin arm of Taiwan-based Johnson Health Technologies, Newcomb Construction, Inc. was facing a looming deadline for getting the building’s shell up before winter weather descended. Although the structure was enclosed quickly and fully complete in just over a year, Newcomb didn’t take any shortcuts on the details, working around the challenges posed by unorthodox window placements and insisting upon a high finish quality for the panels in the 45,000-square-foot office building, knowing that many would remain exposed on the interior. The exterior of the office is characterized by multiple roof heights that create sawtooth skylights and clerestory windows, delivering plenty of natural light into the office. The south facade f the 180,000-square-foot warehouse boasts an architectural “green wall” attached to the Tilt-Up wall and planted with vines that will eventually fill the 350-foot-long by 30-foot-high space. Named one of Wisconsin Builder’s top projects of 2006, the complex has achieved its goad of providing the company with a unified corporate image to attract overseas investors.
Kraft Headquarters-
111,134-square-foot corporate headquarters complex in Naples, Fla. Submitted by: Allen Concrete & Masonry, Inc. of Naples, Fla. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products and Nox-Crete Products Group.
With an aggressive work schedule, Kraft Construction Company, Incorporated desired an efficient, “timeless building” for its 111,134-square-foot headquarters in Naples, Fla. It was determined that Tilt-Up would allow for a clean, contemporary look, as well as increase the ability to utilize the latest technologies throughout the facility. To meet these goals, special products were used, including self-consolidating concrete and fiber-concrete tubes. In addition, expansive pre-construction Tilt-Up planning included a 4-D design of the facility. Features of the floorplan include a 90,138-square-foot office, an 800-square-foot fitness center, a 20,996-square-foot warehouse and 2,380 square feet of communicating spaces. A variety of specially mitered Tilt-Up panels and L-shaped panes were utilized to make up the unusual angles. The plans also called for large panel openings. To remain on schedule with construction of panels, two steel beams were specially made for the job. One was bolted to the panel being lifted, which would keep the window opening rigid. The other was used to set up for the next panel lifting. Tilt-Up forming techniques were tested to the max to meet the architectural design of cast-in-place walls, columns and stairs.
A minimal amount of treatments were used to illuminate the purity of the structure and signify its light white color-scheme. Spandrel glass was included in the design to match large openings. The communicating spaces include a 40-foot-high architectural concrete wall, cantilevered main stair, architectural concrete reception desk and columns. Connecting the communicating space of buildings one and two is a 30-foot-by-10-foot walkway on the second floor.
Marshall, Neil & Pauley Corporate Headquarters-
30,654-square-foot corporate headquarters complex in Houston, Texas. Submitted by: Powers Brown Architecture of Houston, Texas. TCA member involvement: Haynes Whaley & Associates. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products
A manufacturer’s representative for a wide variety of commercial and industrial HVAC equipment, Marshall, Neil & Pauley sought a new corporate headquarters that would enable efficiency yet also serve as a master showroom. As such, the architect conceived the 30,654 square foot building’s skin in a way that allows all surfaces to contribute to the intention and organization of the building. For example, the owner wanted to integrate a cooling tower and treatment system for their customers to tour and see their products. The selected pattern has a “differentiated repeat” theme that is employed thematically with color, openings and revetments in a way that allowed a hierarchical homogeneity on all elevations based upon the specific layout of spaces. The exterior colors of respite blue, lazy grey and ice cube white build on the quilt theme and are accented with a blue tinted glass curtain wall and a polycarbonate translucent panel.
Tilt-Up construction was selected because the method offered cost-efficiency, time savings as well as design flexibility. The architect stated that Tilt-Up provided them with sheets of construction that could be stitched together, creating a wall made of individual components woven into a three-dimensional wrapper. The smaller strips of exterior skin also facilitated a relatively economical billowing effect on the major façade. Angular and tapered panels were integrated into the design as well. Tilt-Up also provided the design flexibility to create a uniform flow between the windows and panels, as well as he entry and warehouse interior and exterior. With a construction schedule of 485 days, this building was designed to provide optimal office and warehouse efficiency yet also is fitting for use in sales and tours.
Retail Category:
Maple Lawn Retail #1 and #2-
20,682-square-foot and 16,931-square-foot retail buildings in Maple Lawn, Md. Submitted by: Chesapeake Contracting Group, Inc. of Reisterstown, Md. Other TCA member involvement: Precision Concrete Construction Co. and Morabito Consultants, Inc. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Nox-Crete Products Group, Textured Coatings of America and Innovative Brick Systems, LLC.
The owner of this project wanted a retail development that would resemble an old-fashioned main street, but there was a catch: The one-story building needed to look like two stories. Using Tilt-Up allowed the large walls necessary for such a project to be raised economically, and also provided the architectural capabilities needed to achieve the main street aesthetic. To deal with elevation changes, Chesapeake Contracting Group designed the panels to have different heights that would match the exterior grade. Because of site restrictions, the panels were cast in stacks four to six panels high, and thickened panel legs allowed for moment connections. In keeping with the old-fashioned look, the buildings’ exteriors feature EIFS cornices and moldings, cast-in reveals and multiple brick veneers. Tilt-Up panels also were used to create an octagonal tower feature. This retail development stands at the entrance to Maple Lawn, a 1,000-acre mixed-use community in the Baltimore/Washington area that also features 600 homes and 1.5 million square feet of office space.
Educational Category:
Palm Springs Middle School-
228,223-square-foot educational facility in Palm Springs, Fla. Submitted by: Woodland Construction Company of Jupiter, Fla. Other TCA member involvement: Permit Engineering Services. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Nox-Crete Products Group and Textured Coatings of America.
Plans for the Palm Springs Middle School called for an art deco look. To allow for the desired architecture, the owner selected Tilt-Up for the 228,223-square-foot project because of the cost-effective speed of construction and the versatile fabricated Styrofoam formliners. Tilt-Up panels had to be constructed at an active school site, which required minimum interference with students, faculty and staff. Cast-in-place lettering was recessed in the Tilt-Up panels for the school name and other designated areas. With a rigorous schedule during the hot months of summer, crews were able to complete the project for the start of the school year.
The 1,300-student-capacity facility features geometric forms as well as grid-lined and sunburst-marked glass. The color-scheme for the school features earth tones such as coral, light beige and terra cotta. A Tilt-Up panel creates a grand three-tiered 53-foot tower entrance, which is not attached with adjacent panels. Furthermore, an expansive use of glass was used to create an atrium with two-and-half-story columns.
PBCC Humanities and Technology Building-
45,265-square-foot educational building in Boca Raton, Fla. Submitted by: Tilt-Con Corporation of Altamonte Springs, Fla.
A restricted site and accelerated schedule were the major challenges for Tilt-Con Corporation when it constructed a new Humanities and Technology Center for Palm Beach Community College in Boca Raton, one of the largest community colleges in the state of Florida. The efficiency of Tilt-Up proved to be a major boon in meeting a construction deadline that saw the building go from conception to completion in rapid time. To erect the four-story structure on a tight site, Tilt-Con had to pour the panels in phases and reuse casting slabs multiple times. The restricted site also meant that the structure was braced from the inside, forcing crews to work carefully around the braces when erecting the panels. The structure also features a cast-in-place exterior staircase, the construction of which required considerable attention to detail on the part of Tilt-Con. With panels colored brown or beige with textured paint, white stairways and green spandrel- and curtain-glass accents, the building will be used to house state-of-the-art classrooms that incorporate cutting-edge technology into art, architecture and other humanities-based courses.
South Hialeah K-8 School-
107,984-square-foot educational facility in Hialeah, Fla. Submitted by: Woodland Construction Company of Jupiter, Fla. Other TCA member involvement: Permit Engineering Services and Pirtle Construction Co. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Nox-Crete Products Group and Textured Coatings of America, Inc.
An increased student-enrollment rate at the Miami-Dade School District led to the 107,984-square-foot expansion of South Hialeah K-8 School. The expansion was built on a small site, which had to maintain the aesthetically pleasing Mediterranean architectural look of the existing school. Furthermore, the site was surrounded by main thoroughfares. Woodland Construction used Tilt-Up to remain under budget and adhere to a strict timeline, while offering “green” solutions. To ensure green standards, the primary material used was concrete, which will allow for low-maintenance for years to come. The concrete scope of the project included cast-in-place columns, lids, eyebrows, canopies and decks. Because the project took place during the school year, most of the construction had to be coordinated after school hours to ensure little disruption and maximum safety. With these limitations, the expansion had to be completed in sequences. Tilt-Up panels were constructed after school hours. The shell was erected in two phases, four months ahead of schedule.
The versatility of formliners and EIFS system proved to be resourceful in providing a wood-finished look, which is uncommon in South Florida. They were installed for the project to create the Mediterranean look the owners desired in a cost-effective manner. The use of a terra cotta color-scheme blended with the existing school and gives the appearance the new facility has always been there. The new facility provides an atmosphere that meets green standards and promotes learning for all students. In addition to housing 1,200 students, the South Hialeah K-8 School offers a community school, which features programs for both students and adults. Located two blocks from the Town Hall, the facility will also provide the community with a hurricane shelter. The Tilt-Up method has a proven high performance rating during a hurricane to safeguard the community from inclement weather.
South Miami K-8 School-
62,221-square-foot educational facility in Miami, Fla. Submitted by: Woodland Construction Company of Jupiter, Fla. TCA member involvement: Permit Engineering Services and Pirtle Construction Co. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Nox-Crete Products Group and Textured Coatings of America, Inc.
When the Miami-Dade School Board needed a new school that would blend into the surrounding neighborhoods, they turned to Tilt-Up construction. The school board also recognized the benefits of Tilt-Up with regard to safety, durability and architectural appeal.
The surrounding upscale neighborhood contains homes with earth tone themes including coral elements. As such, coral was applied to the Tilt-Up panels after erection to create architectural dimension. A variety of formliners and reveals also were used to provide architectural relief. Different patterns were used to contrast with the coral stone cladding applied to the Tilt-Up panels. Further, oval columns and cast-in-place canopies at the Art and Music Building and the outside dining area near the three-story classroom building create a dramatic effect. The Art and Music Building also includes three curved panels at the stage area and the stair shafts are architecturally angled with full height stone applied to give them an abstract look. Smooth film faced plywood was used at the curved panels to form “ramps” that were critical in preventing major patching to the panels.
Tilt-Up also was selected to help alleviate mold and mildew problems experienced with other schools in the area. Further, the school district pursued green and sustainable design elements, such as the use of natural light and ventilation.
With a construction schedule of a mere 210 days, the staff, nearly 700 students and the surrounding community are excited about South Miami K-8. Further, with all the hurricanes that have posed threats to South Florida in recent years, this unique 62,221-square-foot school will also be designated as a hurricane shelter to provide a secure place for area residents.
Wiley Middle School-
176,000-square-foot educational facility in Leander, Texas. Submitted by: American Constructors, LP of Austin, Texas. TCA member involvement: Fields & Associates Architects, Inc. and Pickett, Kelm & Associates. Products for this project supplied by: Dayton Superior Corporation, Innovative Brick Systems, LLC, Composite Technologies Corporation and CMC Construction Services.
The Leander Independent School District needed to maintain a fast-track schedule to adhere to budget constraints and open an energy efficient, durable facility for fall classes. The district and design team also desired an aesthetic effect that would match the current buildings of the University of Texas campus in Austin. This required blended colored brick and a recessed Flemish brick band. Much to the satisfaction of the entire team and community, the 176,000-square-foot school opened in August 2006. The school district used the cost-effective Tilt-Up method because of its structural integrity, improved wind and fire resistance and mold elimination. The Tilt-Up elements used include spandrel panels, false beams, flat panel base and corners, and quoined pillars. Several innovative methods were applied using Tilt-Up. The three-story interior corridor walls created bearing for the second floor, mechanical platforms and the roof structure. A stepped panel corner detail mutes the impact of the caulked corner joint and provides for continuity of the insulation around each corner. Care was required in the coordination of bracing for the parallel corridor walls, the fire walls and the elevator shaft walls. Some slabs were used three times for casting the three-story corridor side, the two-story corridor side and the exterior insulated panels. Cranes were also used on the slabs to facilitate panel erection. Because no paint could be used for the exterior of the building, a special concrete mix was used for the exterior panels that included a mixture of special white sand, washed river sand and limestone aggregate.
Sandblasting was key to the visual outcome of the project. When sandblasted, the special concrete created a soft tan color. This project was completed below median cost and also below the average of the lowest-cost quarter of all tracked middle schools in the area.
Spiritual Buildings Category:
70,042-square-foot spiritual building in Port Royal, S.C. Submitted by: Citadel Contractors Inc. of Wando S.C. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Nox-Crete Products Group and Innovative Brick Systems, LLC.
The unique geophysical conditions in Beaufort, S.C., played a crucial role in the Tilt-Up design of the Community Bible Church. Not only did the structure have to be able to resist seismic activity and hurricane-force winds (a major factor in the selection of Tilt-Up), but also the building site’s location over a 30-foot-deep marsh required Citadel Contractors to create a foundation that incorporated 380 wood piles. The crew also had to work around existing live oak trees, and all designs were subject to review by an architectural board. By incorporating details such as thin-set brick, light gold paint, a standing-seam copper roof and a porte-cochere constructed from Tilt-Up spandrel panels atop cast- in-place columns, the contractor was able to pass architectural muster. The building’s large assembly space posed construction challenges on a tight site—74,000 square feet of panels had to be cast on a 48,200-square-foot floor slab with two different elevations, and the 80-foot steeple, which isn’t directly supported by a foundation, required a steel-braced composite slab at 26 feet above the floor. In the first six months after the building was completed, the church saw its attendance triple.
Warehouse/Distribution Center:
Heavy Fleet Corporate Headquarters-
20,059-square-foot warehouse/distribution facility in Manassas, Va. Submitted by: Vantage Construction Corp. of Sterling, Va. TCA member involvement: Morgan Gick McBeath & Associates, Haynes Whaley & Associates and Precision Concrete Construction Co. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Nox-Crete Products Group and Textured Coatings of America, Inc.
With the objective of constructing a “South Beach” art deco warehouse and distribution center in an industrial park for Heavy Fleet, Tilt-Up was the ideal solution that resulted in a unique architectural statement showcasing the owner’s taste. Simple elements were used to provide an exterior façade that is unique, interesting and timeless. Vertical fins and spires were used to break-up the façade and provide an interesting elevation. Horizontal elements include a painted steel sunscreen/ canopy and horizontal reveals. Pineapple Grove precast medallions were applied in recessed areas above the main entrance to architecturally enhance the panels and coffered ceilings accent the main reception area and the president’s office. Further, a 10-foot cantilevered galvanized steel-finned sunscreen with a canopy can be found at the main entrance and four 24-foot anodized aluminum spires in stainless steel boots accent the main and retail entrance.
Schedule also was a key factor in the selection of Tilt-Up as Heavy Fleet was seeking to, with the creation of this new 20,059 square foot structure, merge two existing facilities into one and the existing leases were due to expire. Tilt-Up construction allowed the contractor to construct the building while performing the site work. Even though the project was built through the winter with exten- sive soils challenges, the construction was completed in only 189 days.
Tilt-Up construction also provided the owner with a durable, relatively maintenance-free facility, which is key for this heavy truck maintenance and parts distribution center.
Although many industrial projects have similar exterior finishes, the Heavy Fleet Corporate Headquarters is definitely a project that went out- side the box. But, even with its bold statement, it blends well with the other buildings in the industrial park and has lasting value and marketability for the owner.
Kumho Tire Distribution Facility-
411,000-square-foot warehouse/distribution facility in McDonough, Ga. Submitted by: Panattoni Construction, LLC of Atlanta, Ga. Other TCA member involvement: Martin Concrete and Pruitt Eberly Stone. Products for this project supplied by: Dayton Superior Corporation.
For tire manufacturer Kumho Tire, the construction of a new office and warehouse coincided with the adoption of a new company logo. To emulate the wing motif of the new logo, the owner wanted the entry to the distribution facility to incorporate similar sweeping lines. To achieve this, Panattoni Construction cast and set the panels for the entry on an angle, using steel embeds welded to both the footing and the panels to hold them in place. The corner entry is crowned by two 103,000-pound panels that meet in a V, and the open spaces are filled with reflective blue glass. The cool tone of the colors chosen for the panels offsets the building’s red wing-like light fixture. An aluminum awning completes the unorthodox entry design, which has already earned landmark status in the city of McDonough, Ga., thanks to its architecturally arresting features.
Petrol Valves Office/Warehouse-
17,894-square-foot warehouse/distribution facility in Houston, Texas. Submitted by: Powers Brown Architecture of Houston, Texas. Other TCA member involvement: TAS Commercial Concrete Construction. Products for this project supplied by: CMC Construction Services and Dayton Superior Corporation.
Working with a limited budget and tight timeline, developers wanted to establish a U.S. presence for Petrol Valves, an Italian-based manufacturer and distributor of large valves. The facility houses U.S. personnel, as well as storage spaces for Petrol Valve products. Adjacent to one of the busiest plazas in the area, the facility is located off of Highway 8 in Houston, Texas. The heavy traffic in the area led to issues in the construction phase. For the 13,385-square-foot warehouse area and 4,509-square-foot office area, the owner was attracted to using Tilt-Up because of the method’s cost efficiency and speed. One of the overall complexities of the project was resolving the elements of the project with the adjacent landowner and the transportation authority. The building also had to be constructed in a manner that would utilize the identity and circulation of the adjacent developer. To properly complete construction, a Low-E glass curtain wall system and cold-rolled natural aluminum finished panels were used.
The color-schemes were adjusted to meet the branding identity of Petrol Valve. Medium texture and paints were applied as architectural treatments. A system of slot-like windows was punched in the wall to convey the openers of the service area and was transformed to positive solid panels glazed in the curtain wall at the main façade. Dynamic intrigue was created in the office lobby area with the use of L-shaped cantilever canopies. A polycarbonate system was used in the lobby to allow for natural light. To allow for sufficient signage for the facility, a 45-foot-tall obelisk-like tower was erected. The tower is visible from the highway up to a half- mile away, as well as a naturally-lit two-story interior work area.
Pinch Office and Warehouse Facility-
92,820-square-foot warehouse/distribution facility in Houston, Texas. Submitted by: Powers Brown Architecture of Houston, Texas. Other TCA member involvement: TAS Commercial Concrete Construction. Products for this project supplied by: CMC Construction Services and Dayton Superior Corporation.
Located near a major airport, the owners of the Pinch Office Warehouse Facility were in search of a facility capable of significantly reducing the sound-level of airplane traffic. The Tilt-Up method was used to mask the sound of airport operations and guarantee a durable structure. The method also ensures the efficient use of space for the 16,500-square-foot office and 76,320-square-foot warehouse. Because of the flexibility of the Tilt-Up method, the owner has plans to expand the facility. Crews had to utilize a pre-engineered metal roofing system with Tilt-Up wall panels.
The novel architectural design for the building called for exposed ceilings, aluminum sun shading screens and a standing seam metal roofing system. A medium texture elastomeric paint and Low-E glass were used to enhance the architecture. The design-scheme features clustered and isolated gabled roof forms, asymmetric chevrons, a workout room with gabled coves and a vaulted entry. The Tilt-Up method allowed the owners to construct a building that would increase its efficiency level for corporate operations and its shipping interface. As a third-party shipper, turnaround times and inventory tracking became more feasible with the innovative construction of the 92,820-square-foot facility.
Tornier USA Headquarters–
19,164-square-foot warehouse/distribution facility in Stafford, Texas. Submitted by: Powers Brown Architecture of Houston, Texas. Products for this project supplied by: CMC Construction Services and Dayton Superior Corporation.
The design of an office/warehouse facility for Tornier USA, a France-based manufacturer of prosthetic limbs, was inspired in large part by the building’s prime location in the northeast quadrant of a fast-growing business park. While the corner site allowed the primary elements of the building—the lobby, main conference center, break rooms and call center—to be located along main street frontages, their exposures to the south and west left them vulnerable to the Texas sun. To circumvent this issue, Powers Brown Architecture came up with a design that incorporates overlapping planes on the southern end of the building, which not only provide shade for the interior, but also add a linear canopy element to the architecture. On the western end of the building, angular Tilt-Up walls, glazing and shading forms provide further shade and architectural detailing. The company’s signature blue was used as an accent color on both the interior and exterior, along with yellow and white to provide contrast. The new headquarters gives Tornier USA a professional space in which to host medical training with their product, as well as carry out day-to-day operations.
Transportadora Comercial Columbia TECC Headquarters and Logistics Platform-
156,000-square-foot warehouse/distribution facility in Medellin, Antioquia, Columbia. Submitted by: Dinpro S.A. of Medellin, Antioquia, Columbia. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products.
The use of Tilt-Up construction for the Colombian headquarters of Transportadora Comercial TCC, a Latin American packing and shipping company, represents an innovative step forward in the building market in this region of the world. Because the complex encompasses a variety of different uses (including office and warehouse space, a hotel for employees, a vehicle-repair shop and a reception package point), Dinpro S.A. used their extensive Tilt-Up knowledge to create a multifaceted design that could accommodate them all. The box-like structure of one of the buildings was designed to reference the company’s line of work, while uniquely shaped cantilevered panels over the reception entry lend the structure architectural interest. The vehicle repair area is highlighted by a cable-stayed roof supported by triangular panels, and a fence around the perimeter was constructed with Tilt-Up panels and cantilevered beams. The decision to use Tilt-Up on this project not only kept it on schedule and budget, but also allowed for energy-efficient and earthquake-resistant buildings that have helped to elevate the quality of the surrounding neighborhood.
Institutional Category:
Deerfield Beach Mitigation Operations Center-
47,980-square-foot service facility in DeerÀeld Beach, Fla. Submitted by: Tilt-Con Corporation of Altamonte Springs, Fla. Other TCA member involvement: Steinbicker & Associates, Inc.
As Deerfield Beach, Fla., grows at an expansive rate, the community realized its need for a hurricane-proof fire rescue headquarters station. Construction of the emergency operations facility called for a building that could withstand category five winds. To meet these safety needs with a cost-effective outlook and in a timely manner, the owner relied on the Tilt-Up method.
Tilt-Con Corporation was able to construct complex Tilt-Up panels of various sizes and shapes that allowed for a dramatic arched entryway for fire trucks. The design plans also required special panels for large arched doorways.
The wood-like architectural look of the facility was created using a special formliner. Yellow and red tones were applied to enhance the natural vibe of the design-scheme. Serving as an emergency operations center during Florida storms, the facility’s features include male and female dorms, a communi- cations area, kitchen, food pantry and locker rooms. By using the Tilt-Up method, the Deerfield Beach community was able to guarantee a financial return for the city. The sustainability of the structure is expected to protect residents for many years to come.
Ecoplex Parking Garage-
125,000-square-foot parking garage in West Palm Beach, Fla. Submitted by: Woodland Construction Company of Jupiter, Fla. Other TCA member involvement: BBM Structural Engineers. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Nox-Crete Products Group and Textured Coatings of America, Inc.
Time and money proved to be the major factors when deciding to convert
a precast parking garage design into Tilt-Up: Not only would keeping the design precast further delay construction (of an office building and hotel) by 18 months, but also the use of Tilt-Up would save the owner more than $1 million. During the design phase, Woodland Construction relied on its considerable experience with Tilt-Up to conceive a design that included double-tee decks and ramps with a 2-inch concrete topping applied after erection for a smoother finish than traditional “pretopped” tees. However, the use of double tees required Woodland to carefully coordinate the erection of the Tilt-Up walls, creating an exterior bracing structure that wouldn’t disturb erection of the double tees. To help achieve the owner’s green-building goals, Woodland worked with the ready-mix supplier to ensure the concrete mix contained recycled materials, and also verified that all reinforcing steel used was recycled. The five-story structure features an earth-toned palette to blend in with the surrounding landscape and is crowned at the entrance by a massive spandrel panel. With a Silver LEED rating, the Ecoplex parking garage is the first green parking structure, as well as the first Tilt-Up parking structure, in the city of West Palm Beach.
Physicians Office Pavilion at WakeMed North Healthplex-
80,000-square-foot institutional facility in Raleigh, N.C. Submitted by: Citadel Contractors, Inc. of Apex, N.C. Other TCA member involvement: BrasÀeld & Gorrie, LLC and Robert L. Hume, P.E. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products, Nox-Crete Products Group, White Cap Construction Supply and Innovative Brick Systems, LLC.
The decision to use Tilt-Up construction for an 80,000-square-foot office building at WakeMed North Healthplex was an easy one, as the owner was already well-versed in the benefits of the method. However, the surrounding hospital buildings had been constructed on steel frames with brick and EIFS façades, meaning that Citadel Contractors faced a challenge in matching the Tilt-Up structure to those around it. To do this, the project’s architect conceived a design that includes a 14-foot retaining wall that supports three stories of curtain wall, taking advantage of Tilt-Up’s shear capabilities to overcome structural challenges. Thin brick was applied to the building’s façade to match the brick exteriors of the adjacent buildings. A 20-foot retaining wall with an integral water feature further ties the new building into its surroundings, and demanded considerable precision and coordination from the contractor when connecting it to the existing hospital. Concrete benches were also added in the courtyard area, and the concrete on the retaining walls was left uncoated to allow its natural beauty to be displayed.
Commerical Category:
Casino Queen-
236,000-square-foot commercial facility in East St. Louis, Ill. Submitted by: Concrete Strategies, Inc. of St. Louis, Mo. TCA member involvement: Alper Audi. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products and Nox-Crete Products Group.
The use of integral design for the Casino Queen led to the very first floating gaming facility that has a land-based casino shell and a gaming floor that is rafted on a floating concrete barge. The owners of the facility used Tilt-Up methods because of its structural integrity. On each panel, Concrete Strategies used a TCA-grade A patch – the highest grade of patch that the industry has. With an admirable approach at efficiency, the unused concrete materials were recycled. The concept of the Casino Queen was the first Tilt-Up casino construction in the St. Louis area. Because panels were large-scale, 4,000 and 5,000-PSI mix was used for about 13,000 cubic yards of concrete. Concrete Strategies sequenced two panels and installed casting beds to reduce cost and match the square footage of the wall panels to the floor slabs. A 300-ton crawler crane was used to pick up heavy panels.
Housing Category:
O’Connor Residence-
Hoping to add to the architectural beauty of the high-end residential Anaheim Hills neighborhood, the O’Connor family wanted to construct a home with cost-saving, energy efficient features that required very little maintenance. To meet these needs, the owners selected the Tilt-Up method because the concrete would eliminate the presence of termites and other bugs, as well as increase fire resistance. The easy application of Rapid Set Wunderfixx allowed for an exceptional finish. Wunderfixx was utilized to treat the majority of the exterior surface. Because many of the interior concrete walls were left unpainted, Wunderfixx was used to maintain an unseen transition from the raw panels to the patched surface.
To enhance the architectural aesthetics, a Styrofoam trim and thin block was applied. A rustic look was created by exposing lift inserts and uncoated, tapered columns. Rustic elements were achieved in the interior of the home by exposing duct work and trusses. Although neighbors had concerns regarding the use of a crane to construct gray concrete panels for a home in their neighborhood, once complete, the community was pleased with the luxurious 7,200-square-foot custom home.
Residence Hall for Nova Southeastern University-
178,806-square-foot housing project in Davie, Fla. Submitted by: Florida Tilt, Inc. of Miami, Fla. Other TCA member involvement: Permit Engineering Services. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products and Accubrace Shoring, LLC.
The construction of a 178,806-square-foot dormitory building on the campus of Nova Southeastern University presented an out-of-the-ordinary challenge for Tilt-Up contractor Florida Tilt: The construction site was home to burrowing owls, which had to be kept safe in accordance with Florida Wildlife guidelines. To work around this, Florida Tilt started construction on the end point of the building and then moved back to the start point to erect the panels once the owls had left their nests. Even though the construction team encountered this schedule delay, they still had to be ready for the filigree floor systems at the original start point and schedule. Despite this setback and others (including a tight site and a hurricane warning that delayed construction for three days), the contractor was still able to stick to a 130-day construction schedule that would ensure the building was open in time for classes in the fall of 2007. The building features many panel depressions and reveals. To provide visual relief for the large structure, the building has a very unique footprint and elevation. To complement existing facilities on the campus, the facility features earth tones of tan and coral. The five-story building has unique window and door openings to create visual appeal for the structure.
Manufacturing/Industrial Category:
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PSHIA) Rental Car Center (RCC) Bus Operations and Maintenance Facility-
8,353-square-foot manufacturing/industrial facility in Phoenix, Ariz. Submitted by RNL of Phoenix, Ariz. Products for this project supplied by: Meadow Burke Products and Nox-Crete Products Group.
Serving as the main entrance to the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PSHIA), the City of Phoenix wanted an interesting rental car center and bus operations facility that promotes civic and community pride. To meet dynamic visual demands, the facility — a gateway to the airport — incorporated the look of the Sonoran desert canyon landscape. The ease of construction and well organized project schedule of the Tilt-Up method worked well with the architectural aesthetic. Each Tilt-Up concrete stained panel was unique in size and pattern for the 6,892-square-foot office, 17,959-square-foot maintenance facility, 3,502-square-foot wash room and 2,993-square-foot mezzanine. The panels were constructed with varying textures to ensure the presence of the Sonoran desert. To mark entry and public areas, the silhouette of the panels were gently angled upward to the west. The verticality of the concrete panels was offset by deeply recessed windows, which maximize views from the interior.
The color-scheme selected mimics the tones and textures of a natural desert environment. The Tilt-Up method allowed for patterns accented by deep recesses and sharp, angular projections.
Oftentimes, bus service facilities are not the most imaginative. With such high visibility to vehicular traffic traveling to and from PSHIA, the Tilt-Up method enhanced the architectural landscape.
