Project Overview
Designed by Perry Architects Inc., 921 Howard is transforming San Francisco's skyline as the city's tallest fully affordable housing project. Standing 18 stories, this groundbreaking development was made possible through innovative zoning revisions and a forward-thinking approach to design and construction.
The building's precast thin shell concrete facade strikes the perfect balance between cost-effectiveness and structural integrity. By utilizing a limited number of repetitively stacked elements, the design maximizes efficiency while maintaining a visually striking aesthetic - proving that affordable housing can be both innovative and architecturally appealing.
With vertically stacked residential units, the project optimizes space utilization and construction costs without compromising comfort or quality. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, the team successfully navigated material shortages and construction disruptions, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.
Precast Solution
The installation of Thinshell precast panels, covering 63,000 SF, were installed. Each panel measured 32 feet in length and 10 feet 6 inches in height, spanning floor to floor. The use of precast Thinshell panels was instrumental in enhancing construction speed, reducing on-site labor, and ensuring a high-quality, durable, and visually striking exterior.
Thinshell precast panels make up approximately 80% of the building's exterior cladding, playing a crucial role in both aesthetics and efficiency. To accelerate installation, the panels were pre-glazed and caulked offsite at Willis Construction Co. Inc.'s plant. This approach reduced the amount of work required on-site, cutting down installation time and costs. Additionally, the interior bead of the two-joint sealant system was applied from the inside of the building, ensuring a seamless installation process while allowing uninterrupted progress on the exterior facade.
The project's design posed several challenges, particularly in reinforcing the unique geometry of the panels, which included narrow-to-deep transitions and intricate window surrounds. Despite these complexities, the team successfully integrated dual-color finishes within single panels, enhancing the building's architectural character while maintaining efficiency in production and installation.
921 Howard sets a new benchmark for innovative affordable housing in California, showcasing how precast concrete enables faster, more efficient construction while remaining cost-effective. Its versatility allows for striking design without compromising affordability, and the streamlined building process reduces labor costs and project timelines. With enhanced durability and low maintenance needs, precast concrete ensures long-term value, creating a high-quality living environment for residents. |