EMPAC at RPI

Project Info

Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center (EMPAC at RPI)

Project Summary – New England Prefab

Design is more than skin deep. To many, especially in North America, this was a radical statement in 2001. The Curtis R. Priem Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center (EMPAC) challenged, and still challenges, the status quo. It became an ambitious architectural project among a growing number in North America, emerging from decades-long conservative approach to building design. It is a testament to an architect and team of engineers and consultants who – given the challenge of a daring client – committed themselves to both aesthetic and technical excellence.

New England Prefab supported the project with 3D BIM coordination, Engineering, and creative offsite manufacturing of prefab LGMF panels with fire rated 18g steel sheet metal sheathing.  A Rhino model was used to create the complex curved surface, which was divided into prefab panels.  Kits of radius studs and radius track were made and assembled offsite so that the Hull enclosure could be completed in weeks with over a 75% schedule savings in the field.  The complex curved Hull facade was set with the aid of CNC cut steel plates used to align the surface of the panels from the segmented structural steel.  The true power of BIM coordination was front and center with the successful completion of this prefab wall scope.

Environmental

Interior

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