Bold three-dimensional expression detailed with the care of a “matchmaker” brings forth the architectural possibilities of precast concrete.
The Aetna U.S. Healthcare building in the Renaissance Park Complex located in Montgomery County, PA, was designed to be compatible with the existing buildings in the industrial park, while maintaining an intensified sense of architectural expression and individuality. In order to meet the designer’s demands, Architectural Precast LLC provided precast concrete for the entire exterior treatment.
The Aetna building stands four stories high and features buff colored light, medium and heavy sandblasted finishes, totaling 45,857 sq. ft. (34,851 sq m) of precast concrete.
“The complex design of the facade was perfectly suited to precast concrete. It made this intricate yet bold architectural expression possible within budget and ahead of schedule,” said G. David Schoenhird of Cather’s and Associates.
The front elevation is composed of four rows of windows with aluminum columns dividing the top row into 11 sections. In the middle is a hemispherical portico that is accentuated by two sections on either side that sink inward. The portico is composed of precast radius panels that form an ogee curve, which is a relatively difficult architectural maneuver. The cornices also feature a three-dimensional design by positioning the window at an indent from the rest of the facade.
Schoenhird also noted that “the oversize ogee curve of the cornices, the projecting cornices, indentation of the cornices and the areas surrounding the portico all work together in presenting more than just a typical precast relief. The panels dovetail into each other, while reveal and joint lines are carefully controlled — making them extremely difficult to mount. This project is a true test of a precaster’s ability to figure out the detailing of a building, from casting to erection. Architectural Precast not only met, but exceeded the challenges of this project.”
Architectural Precast LLC is a member of the Mid-Atlantic Precast Association, formed in 1978 by producers of precast/prestressed concrete products serving New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia and the District of Columbia. Its mission is to strengthen communications between industry design professionals and contractors. The association also develops industry standards for quality in building with precast/prestressed concrete.
For more information, call 800/453-4447.
