Glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) architectural panels were used very effectively to clad the new residence hail for the School of the Art institute of Chicago. Located in the city’s historic Loop area of downtown, the new structure blends well with the adjacent 1924 building to which it now connects. Highly detailed panel designs that replicate older Chicago architecture combine with large window areas to create a design that makes the two buildings complement each other. The ease of handling of the thin, durable, lightweight panels helped the project keep to the planned fast-track schedule. At the site, the panels could be attached efficiently and quickly to the structural frame. This article discusses the design concept and features of the building, the advantages of GFRC, panel design and color characteristics, and cost considerations.
