The Union on 24th student housing high rise located on the campus of the University of Texas, Austin, showcases the innovative combination of ALUCOBOND® PLUS aluminum composite material (ACM) and prefabrication construction techniques. Developed by Greystar and constructed with prefabricated panels built by Baker Triangle, the project achieved stunning aesthetics, exceptional quality and an accelerated construction schedule.

The design of Union on 24th achieves an ideal blend of functionality and visual appeal. A key feature of the building is the ALUCOBOND PLUS panels in “Brushed” finish, which lends a sleek and modern look to the structure. Chosen for its superior formability and consistent appearance, ALUCOBOND PLUS allowed the prefabricated panels to live up to the expectations of the project team. According to Project Manager Clint Bordner from Greystar, “The finished project turned out even better than we hoped,” he said.

The architects at Perkins and Will envisioned a modern and distinctive façade for Union on 24th. Their objective was to deliver a finished look that was both elegant and low-maintenance, and on time. Baker Triangle, recognized the opportunity for prefabrication and proposed the use of Brushed ALUCOBOND® PLUS. This suggestion was met with enthusiasm by the architects and Greystar. The Brushed finish provided a subtle texture, consistent appearance and complemented the other materials used in the building’s design.

Baker Triangle took the concept a step further. They recommended the integration of unique “fins,” fabricated from the same ALUCOBOND® PLUS material. These vertical accents, measuring 6 inches deep, enhance the aesthetic appeal and offer dynamic interest to the structure’s overall look, “The fins are incredibly sleek and beautiful,” noted Sam Balunda, executive vice president, Baker Triangle. “Adding this type of component was a first for us; we couldn’t be happier with how it turned out, it’s a uniquely proud section of the building.”

Fabrication and Installation

The fabrication and installation of the ALUCOBOND PLUS panels was critical to the project’s success, particularly in light of the strict build schedule. Faced with a limited lead time, Baker Triangle’s in-house fabrication capabilities provided a solution that ensured timely delivery and high-quality output. “Prefabricated was my preference and Baker Triangle are the experts,” said Bordner. “With it, everything is much more straightforward – the project moves more quickly, and the quality of the finished panels is top-notch.”

The prefabricated panels were produced at one of Baker Triangle’s 200,000 square foot facilities in Dallas. The panels, measuring 42 by 9 feet, were fabricated, finished and delivered through a just-in-time process, then transported to the jobsite in Austin. This delivery system was crucial in maintaining the project’s pace, with one floor being completed each week.

The installation process was meticulously coordinated with the construction schedule. As the envelop for each floor was finished, the interior work on the floors below were able to be completed by the army of subcontractors involved. This allowed for efficient parallel workflows. According to Greystar, the prefabricated approach saved approximately 12 weeks of construction time, ensuring the project was completed within the required timeline.

The Quantifiable, Tangible Benefits of Prefabrication

The Union on 24th project serves as a compelling model for the value delivered to projects across education, hospitality and healthcare markets where tight schedules and revenue-generating projects are a priority. Through the use of prefabricated panels constructed with ALUCOBOND® PLUS developers and general contractors benefit from the following:

• Reduced Construction Time: Prefabrication enables the aggressive project schedules. This was a critical advantage for Greystar who need to meet back-to-school deadlines.
• Enhanced Safety: By minimizing on-site labor, prefabrication achieves a dramatic reduction in their Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR). This translates to less risk and a safer work environment for all involved. It also contributes to bottom-line savings on insurance premiums.
• Superior Quality: Assembled in controlled environment, such as Baker Triangle’s fabrication facilities, there is greater, more consistent quality control in every panel.
• Design Flexibility: Prefabrication enables expanded design possibilities. For Union on 24^th prefabrication allowed for the innovation of the panel fins.

Possibilities

The success of the Union on 24th project highlights the benefits of prefabrication and the use of ALUCOBOND PLUS in modern construction, demonstrating that combination of material and method can significantly enhance both the quality, efficiency and safety of building projects.

“Prefab construction is the way the industry is going,” stated Balunda. “The ability to enhance design, ensure timely completion and reduce risk makes it a valuable approach.”

Union on 24th stands as a model for the future of construction, where advanced materials and innovative fabrication and assembly techniques can transform architectural visions into reality, efficiently and safely. Greystar and Baker Triangle not only delivered a remarkable building, they set a new industry benchmark, paving the way for a new era in construction, where prefabrication and quality materials like ALUCOBOND PLUS are the cornerstones of success.