Proj Overview

Project Overview

Designers on the Prince of Peace Church had to balance modern sensibilities with old-world tradition.
Options for steel, cast-in-place concrete, and precast concrete were examined to find the best blend of aesthetics, economics, and constructability.

Precast Solution

The structure consists of load-bearing, precast concrete panels that also serve as the primary interior finish. Other options were rejected over concerns about quality and sequencing.
The panels’ detailing and surface treatment satisfied aesthetic concerns, while using the structural panels as the building’s primary finish lent integrity to the concept. The materials were sandblasted and the exposed surfaces act as a reflective foil complementing the other finishes.
Exposed concrete elements consist of two pieces, joined back to back. They are stacked and connected to elements above and below with steel pins. Structural tolerances were applied to architectural shapes. Formed surfaces served as final finishes.

 

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Project Team

Architect

Craig, Gaulden & Davis

Engineer

Cary Engineering Consultants

General Contractor

Morris Construction Co.

Owner

Diocese of Charleston, S.C.

Precaster

Metromont Corporation

Precast Specialty Engineer

Design/Build Engineers & Contractors Inc.

Key Project Attributes

  • Fabricating the precast concrete components under controlled conditions in the plant ensured high quality and tight tolerances, minimizing field adjustments and speeding up erection time.
  • Precast concrete’s aesthetic versatility provided a contemporary look that also fit with the traditional needs of the religious community.
  • Precast concrete structural system provided interior finish on pieces, saving time and materials.
  • Precast concrete structural system offered clear spans and open interiors.
  • Panels were sandblasted, with the exposed surfaces acting as a reflective foil complementing other finish materials.
  • Precast concrete’s modularity allowed concrete elements to be stacked and connected as needed to speed construction while leaving few joints.

Project/Precast Scope

  • 25,000-square-foot facility includes 1,200 seat-church, 60-seat chapel, and ancillary support function spaces (bridal room, baptisery, narthex, and sacristy.
  • More than 250 precast concrete components, including architectural load-bearing panels, beams, and arched spandrels.
  • Exposed concrete elements consist of two pieces, joined back to back, that are stacked and connected above and below with steel pins.