Colorado’s first mobility hub, serves as a groundbreaking transportation center, featuring protected bus slips with a tunnel connecting passengers to the bus platform. Designed to offer both functionality and aesthetic appeal, the station integrates cutting-edge architectural elements, including the feature wall system provided by the manufacturer. The walls of the tunnel span its entire length, showcasing a palette of orange, tan, brown, and white hues that evoke Colorado's stunning mountain landscape. These walls, constructed from scratch-resistant CeramicSteel, ensure durability in this high-traffic area, while integrated lighting enhances the visual experience, creating a unique passage for travelers.
The manufacturer played a pivotal role in transforming the architect’s vision into reality, working closely with both the architect and the general contractor during the pre-construction phase. The architect’s vision called for a continuous wall system along both sides of the tunnel, complemented by integrated lighting that would highlight the design and create a dramatic visual effect. The need for durability was paramount, as the walls would be exposed to frequent bus traffic, requiring a robust material to withstand constant wear and tear.
To meet these requirements, the manufacturer proposed CeramicSteel, a material renowned for its durability and resilience. Combining the toughness of steel with the smooth, stain-resistant surface of porcelain, CeramicSteel is impervious to scratches, graffiti, fire, bacteria, chemicals, and corrosion. Digital print technology was employed to apply vibrant colors onto the CeramicSteel surface. Curved panels were made of aluminum, powder coated to precisely match the color and sheen of CeramicSteel for a seamless transition.
An essential aspect of the project was the integration of lighting between the panels. The manufacturer collaborated closely with the lighting contractor to ensure that the lighting strips fit perfectly between the panels, maintaining tight tolerances to create a cohesive effect. The complexity of this integration required precise engineering and careful planning. To ensure the design’s accuracy, the manufacturer’s engineering team created detailed 3D models and proposal drawings for the design team’s review. Once the design was approved, the installation contractor worked alongside the manufacturer to verify the design with laser-measured dimensions, refining layouts as necessary.
After finalizing the design and verifying measurements, a factory-built mock-up of a section of the wall was sent to the site for approval. Once accepted, production commenced, with the panels and attachment systems programmed to meet the exact specifications. Every panel was meticulously checked for quality to ensure perfect alignment, contributing to the overall visual harmony of the tunnel.
Throughout the project, the manufacturer and the installation contractor worked diligently to adhere to the tight installation schedule, ensuring the completion of the system ahead of the project’s deadline. The collaboration between all parties resulted in a stunning architectural display that is both durable and visually captivating. The wall claddings, paired with the integrated lighting, form an exceptional example of architectural excellence, making this project a strong contender for the 2025 CISCA Construction Excellence Award, highlighting its innovation and technical precision.