Project Overview
In Altamonte Springs, Fla., a 7-story, 401-unit multifamily community known as The CenterPointe redefines what’s possible in high-density residential construction. The project, which integrates a five-level parking structure within its footprint, provides a seamless living experience for residents of the community while simultaneously addressing the growing demand for urban housing. From the beginning of the work, the design team faced a clear mandate: deliver a modern, amenity-rich environment on a tight site, within an accelerated schedule, and in a climate that demands durability. FINFROCK of Apopka, Fla., which served as the architect, engineer, and manufacturer on the project, ensured precast concrete would become the cornerstone of The CenterPointe’s vision.
Precast Concrete Takes Center Stage
Every structural component—from long-span floors to architectural wall panels—was manufactured off-site, leveraging the precision and efficiency of the controlled environment at FINFROCK. This approach enabled the integration of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP), along with fire protection systems, directly into the precast concrete components, reducing field labor and accelerating interior buildout. The building’s open-plan layouts, ranging from studios to three-bedroom apartments, were supported by prestressed concrete floor systems that eliminated interior columns and allowed for flexible configurations. Amenities such as a courtyard pool, fitness center, clubhouse, and cybercafé were also incorporated thanks precast concrete’s long-span capabilities.
The site presented significant logistical hurdles: steep grading adjacent to the garage, limited staging areas due to surrounding roadwork, and restricted delivery access. To overcome these constraints, the team employed phased zone erection and meticulous planning with local subcontractors. Structurally, the vertically tiered design required innovative solutions for lateral stability and thermal breaks, effectively creating five separate structures tied together through expansion joints. One of the most complex engineering feats was the design of fully cantilevered balcony slabs. These monolithic precast concrete units combined torsional beam and cantilever slab behavior, reducing the number of pieces required and improving efficiency in both production and installation. Custom formwork and precise slab tapering ensured proper drainage, structural performance, and ease of handling.
Precast concrete delivered benefits across every phase of the effort. Erection began in December 2023 and wrapped in roughly seven months, a timeline 30% to 50% faster than that of traditional cast-in-place concrete methods. Off-site manufacturing minimized material waste and reduced environmental impact while eliminating the need for extensive on-site formwork and curing. Additionally, the integration of VacuWorx vacuum lifting technology allowed balcony slabs to be installed without embedded lifters, improving safety, reducing crane time, and enhancing aesthetics. Beyond speed and efficiency, precast concrete also provided resilience against Florida’s harsh climate, along with superior fire resistance and long-term durability.
Powered by design-build delivery and precast concrete innovation, The CenterPointe is a stunning multifamily structure that stands ready to serve the Altamonte Springs community for decades to come.
Mason Nichols is a Grand Rapids, Mich.-based writer and editor who has covered the precast concrete industry since 2013. |