Project Overview
Foundation Armor is a 15,000 SF mixed-use commercial/industrial building in Amherst, NH, designed to deliver both high performance and construction efficiency. The project was guided by goals of speed, durability, and energy efficiency with an emphasis on minimizing on-site construction time while creating a functional, visually appealing space.
The building accommodates a combination of commercial uses, with an attached office component that balances aesthetic design with practical performance. The project also prioritized sustainability, using materials and construction methods that reduce waste and minimize the building's overall energy footprint. The project's streamlined approach and attention to quality exemplify modern mixed-use construction strategies where time, efficiency, and durability are critical. Early collaboration under the design-build delivery model enabled the team to optimize panel design, schedule sequencing, and material use, resulting in both efficiency and sustainability gains.
Precast Solution
For Foundation Armor, Fabcon Precast, Inc. provided 10" VersaCore precast wall panels for most of the building. These panels were selected for their structural capability, thermal performance, and rapid installation, providing a highly efficient solution for the project's construction schedule. Finished with painted surfaces, the wall panels delivered both functional and aesthetic performance, supporting the owner's vision.
The precast system's R-value benefits contributed to superior energy efficiency, ensuring the building maintains occupant comfort while reducing operating costs. The VersaCore panels were installed in just one week, dramatically accelerating the construction timeline and minimizing site disruption.
The attached office area was constructed using steel studs and cultured stone, providing design contrast while complementing the precast structure. The use of VersaCore panels also simplified site logistics, reduced labor, and minimized potential safety risks typically associated with longer installation timelines.
Recipient of 2026 PCINE Showcase Award | Best in Precast: Industrial
Foundation Armor earned the 2026 PCINE Showcase Award for Best in Precast: Industrial for its innovative application of precast concrete in a mixed-use industrial/commercial setting. The project demonstrates the versatility of Fabcon's VersaCore panels, delivering rapid installation alongside exceptional structural strength and energy performance.
Completing the entire precast installation in just one week, the team showcased how strategic use of precast can compress schedules while maintaining uncompromised quality. The building's sustainable design, minimized material waste, and high-performance panels highlight how precast concrete can advance both environmental and operational goals. Foundation Armor's durability, flexible design, and superior energy performance position the project as a benchmark for future mixed-use industrial spaces. |