When the opportunity arose to introduce a progressive new look for the newly constructed Austin Boathouse, Joseph LaRocca knew that he had the perfect product solution to create an innovative design primarily for performance rating and clean modern appearance. Located in downtown Austin, the Austin Boathouse is the home of the Austin Rowing Club, a non-profit organization promoting the sport of rowing in Austin, Texas. The Austin Boathouse was a three-year high-profile project, centrally located and surrounded by active biking and running trails, used by thousands of residents each day.
LaRocca, principal architect at GSC Architects, chose to base the project design on the Nichiha panels because of the aesthetics and qualities of the panels, including the modular design; sustainability of materials; clean, crisp reveals; and the ability to utilize custom colors to fit the surrounding community.
“The design of the Austin Parks and Recreation Department Boathouse required a durable exterior material capable of withstanding weathering effects and community wear-and-tear,” commented LaRocca. “The City of Austin wanted a structure that made a visual statement, and that utilized sustainable materials. In the end, the Nichiha panels hit all of the goals, and helped create a building that the citizens of Austin will be proud stewards of for many years to come.”
Architect
Joseph LaRocca
GSC ArchitectsLocation
Austin, TXProject Type
New ConstructionProduct
Illumination SeriesProject Features
- Clean, Modern Look
- Color Xpressions System
- Modularity
- Sustainability
- Durability
- Versatility
- Modified Rainscreen System
- Cost Savings
Panel thickness, modularity, and rainscreen approach to cladding were key attributes to the utilization of Nichiha panels. Nichiha’s Illumination Series Panels with Color Xpressions (color customization) were a perfect choice to reflect the image of the city and create a standout focal point for a locally known landmark. The Illumination Series panels provide a durable and versatile design, with a modern look and feel, complementing the current community landscape, at the fraction of the price of metal panels.
“We love the look of the Nichiha Illumination panels. We wanted the clean, modern look of metal, and Nichiha was the only manufacturer who could accomplish the aesthetic we wanted and remain environmentally-friendly,” stated LaRocca.
Challenge
To find durable, modern-looking panels with the design aesthetics and qualities to compliment the surrounding community.
Solution
The Illumination Series panels provided a durable, sustainable and versatile design, with a clean crisp modern look and feel, complementing the current community landscape, at the fraction of the price of metal panels.
Results
Nichiha was able to provide the client with the desired look and feel to complement the Austin Boathouse, utilizing high-performance, and durable exterior cladding panels. +
Related Stories
| Mar 6, 2013
German demonstration building features algae-powered façade
Exterior of carbon-neutral demonstration building consists of hollow glass panels containing micro-algae "farms."
| Feb 28, 2013
Parex introduces cooler and stronger EIFS basecoats and adhesives
Parex USA, Inc., the parent company of leading building material brands; Parex, Teifs, LaHabra, El Rey, and Merkrete, unveils two new Parex EIFS basecoats & adhesives – 121 Cool Base and 121 Dry HI (High Impact).
| Feb 22, 2013
Starbucks pilot program rolls out small, modular stores
Coffee giant Starbucks is rolling out mini-stores with maximum local flavor, as part of an international pilot program.
| Oct 24, 2012
Loma Linda University Medical Center lets light in with metal wall systems
Designers for the building aimed to create a positive environment for patients and visitors, and wanted to let in as much natural daylight as possible.
| Oct 22, 2012
Nichiha USA to unveil corporate rebranding with remodeled website
Nichiha USA, a manufacturer of fiber cement siding and cladding, will launch its new corporate identity Nov. 1 with the debut of a redesigned website.
| Jun 22, 2012
Golden Gate Bridge Celebrates 75 Years With the Opening of New Bridge Pavilion
With features such as Nichiha's Illumination series panels, super-insulating glass units, and LED lighting, the new Golden Gate Bridge Pavilion not only boasts the bridge's famous international orange, but green sustainability as well
| Jun 8, 2012
Allsteel names Kris Yates to head architectural products group
Yates is responsible for the start up, launch and ongoing sales and marketing of Allsteel’s new Beyond movable walls.
| Jun 1, 2012
New BD+C University Course on Insulated Metal Panels available
By completing this course, you earn 1.0 HSW/SD AIA Learning Units.
