DISTINCT CHALLENGES

Iowa City is densely developed and tightly packed, and our construction area was no exception. We needed to be sure that the job site was not crowded by delivery vehicles or crates of material. We coordinated shipping times, and packed materials strategically so they could be delivered to the specific areas where they would be installed.

We are so grateful to have been involved in this iconic facility’s creation, and would love to help you with yours!

DISTINCT CHALLENGES

To make the unique tiled design of this exterior possible, MDSI had some equally unique structural and logistical challenges. The high density 8mm fiber cement panels used for this project are heavier than ACM panels, and require a sturdy sub-framing. MDSI designed a structure to address this extra weight and collaborated with outside engineering to ensure it would bear the load. The randomized pattern of these panels made precision absolutely essential for the sub-framing. MDSI provided extensive, detailed drawings and communicated with our installer and other subcontractor trades to make sure that the sub-framing would match the final panel locations.

We also created a suspension system for our own Series 72 panel system for the interior ceiling. This included three hinged ACM ceiling access panels with locking mechanisms. The interior included some high density fiber cement panels as well, which were adhered directly to the substrate without fasteners.

Because the high density fiber cement panels were made to order in Europe, we scheduled extra time in the mockup process to make sure the customer was satisfied with the material colors. Confirming this with an in-person mockup prevented us from having longer delays down the line, so we could order the panels for install with confidence.

This project (completed in 2015) was one of the first times we used high density fiber cement panels, so we learned a lot about fiber cement, cross-continental logistics, and installation requirements. We are proud to have learned these lessons along the way, while achieving the architect’s vision for this project!

DISTINCT CHALLENGES

Bringing four systems together was a time-consuming process during the design phase, but we were glad to have the details worked out before construction and fabrication. Coordinating these panel systems also meant coordinating schedules from four unique suppliers to receive materials, fabricate panels, and deliver to the job site on time. This was definitely a challenge, but thanks to having this building scanned with our ExactSite™ Laser Measurement, we were able to deliver materials with accurate dimensions, the first time.

We were so grateful to receive the compliments of the Developer, Architect, and the General Contractor for this project

DISTINCT CHALLENGES

The clean angles, corners and seams required great attention to detail, which is only possible when details are known. Thanks to our ExactSite™ Laser Measurements, our design team was able to address interfacing of panels with windows and other adjacent materials far in advance.

We had to roll with the punches on this one, as significant design modifications were made midway through the job. Engineering challenges had been encountered between design intent and material constraints, which required us to rework panel sizes and arrangements.

In the end, working through all of these challenges was well worth it when our customer saw the beautiful final product!

DISTINCT CHALLENGES

With a hurried time frame and unique demands such as including customer framing dimensions, working with odd shapes and designing access panels, Metal Design Systems rose to the occasion. Specifically, the access panels were a challenge as these had to “fool” the onlooker into seeing a continuous rhythm of smooth panels, while still keeping its function as a user friendly access panel. After several modifications and problem solving, our Modeling Department and those in the shop were able to create a beautiful mock-up for the access panel. This allowed our customer to physically interact with a sample tailored to their specific vision. Once the mock-up was approved, the shop went into full fabrication to complete this stunning project.

DISTINCT CHALLENGES

The architect’s initial vision and the limitations of metal panels yielded several rounds of revisions. MDSI made adjustments to panel sizes to ensure that grain direction and joint lines were aesthetically pleasing and not distracting from the architect’s design.

The engineering and geometry of the canopy feature presented challenges in panel fit and performance. We encountered some substrate surfaces that required panels to be adjusted onsite to fit the contour of the substrate. However, the use of the 3D model helped us to anticipate and avoid most of these situations.

All in all, MDSI is proud to have contributed to such a beautiful project.