Modern Civic Design: Contra Costa Administration Building with GFRC Panels

The Contra Costa Administration Building project showcases the innovative use of GFRC panels to achieve a visually appealing and sustainable design. The clock tower, featuring textured GFRC, mimics the natural stone of nearby historic buildings, blending civic character with a warm and welcoming entry. The use of custom form liners and integral colors allowed the design team to create a unique and cohesive look for the building’s facade.

At the pedestrian level, retaining walls, planters, and bollards made from architectural precast concrete seamlessly match the GFRC panels. This integration created a harmonious and visually appealing environment. By using precast concrete panels that closely resemble the original cultured stone, the project team was able to significantly reduce the construction timeline, cutting approximately six weeks from the project schedule.

The use of GFRC panels slightly increased the upfront construction budget but provided long-term benefits that far outweighed the initial costs. The lightweight nature of GFRC panels facilitated faster construction times and reduced on-site labor. Additionally, the panels’ high durability and resistance to weathering ensure that the building will maintain its pristine condition over time.

To enhance the building’s energy efficiency, spray-foam insulation was applied to the back of the panels in the shop, creating a continuous and consistent thermal barrier. This contributed to the building achieving LEED Gold status and operating at a Net Zero Energy rating. The use of GFRC panels helped reduce the building’s energy use from the baseline standard, demonstrating the material’s effectiveness in promoting sustainability.

The designers of the Contra Costa Administration Building sought to provide a visual connection between the building skin and the surrounding landscape. The use of GFRC panels allowed for the creation of custom designs that express the architectural style throughout the campus. The light and medium sandblast finishes added depth and texture to the building’s facade, enhancing its visual appeal.

The collaboration between Fentress, Thornton Tomasetti, Hensel Phelps, and Willis Construction was crucial to the project’s success. Detailed planning and precise execution ensured that the GFRC panels met all design and structural specifications. The use of computer and 3-D-printed models, along with close collaboration with the precast concrete producer, allowed the team to develop fiberglass molds and mock-ups to determine the final finish and color.

The Contra Costa Administration Building stands as a testament to the potential of GFRC panels in creating efficient, durable, and visually appealing government structures. Willis Construction’s expertise in precast solutions enabled the realization of a design that meets both functional and aesthetic goals. For architects, builders, and developers seeking to deliver high-quality civic infrastructure projects, Willis Construction offers the innovative solutions and craftsmanship necessary to transform ambitious architectural visions into reality.