Architectural Excellence in Riverside: Citrus Tower Corporate Plaza with GFRC Panels

The choice of GFRC panels allowed the project to meet its ambitious design goals efficiently. Using GFRC not only reduced the structural steel framing needed but also provided cost savings. The ability to cast multiple colors in a single panel offered budget efficiency and a unique aesthetic. With three different mix designs and two finishes—light and heavy sandblasting—the building achieved a textured, visually dynamic facade.

The most dramatic feature is the rounded corner tower that extends past the roofline, with a canopy of compound radius GFRC panels and granite cladding. This distinctive element blends well with Riverside’s architectural style and serves as a beacon. The detailed collaboration with the precaster ensured the colors and textures were perfectly executed, with full-size mockups confirming the final selections.

Working with GFRC panels offered flexibility in creating necessary forms and integrating with the window system. This material’s plasticity allowed for easy achievement of complex shapes and detailed paneling. The community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the building’s compatibility and quality. The project sets a new standard for architectural excellence in Riverside, demonstrating how innovative use of GFRC can result in both beautiful and functional designs.

Nadel Architects’ principal Herb Nadel sums it up:

“As far as I’m concerned, working with GFRC, or precast concrete, is a fairly simple design process. We have used it innumerable times. I would highly recommend the use of this material because of the design excellence that can be achieved at a very economical price.”

This project underscores how Willis Construction’s expertise in GFRC can bring ambitious architectural visions to life.