The South Carolina Research Authority’s Applied Technologies Center was developed to be a hallmark office structure within the community of Nexton in Summerville, S.C. Architectural guidelines for Nexton proved the most stringent ever encountered by the design-build team of Choate Construction and LS3P Associates, the team claims. Developers went so far as to build a to-scale model of the development, down to each of the trees. Following approvals from Nexton, the team had to receive approvals from the town of Summerville.

The approved design led to the creation of a three-story, 78,000-sq-ft, structural steel structure, which rests atop a geopier foundation with shallow concrete. The building is clad in an array of Old Savannah brick, Trespa architectural panels, aluminum composite materials and curtain wall glass. The building’s interiors include custom decorative Trespa panels, ceramic tile flooring and custom pendant lighting, along with an open ceiling structure. A monumental staircase accents the lobby, which is also adorned by a custom orchid sculpture.

Once contractors started construction, several issues arose that challenged the schedule. Crews faced nearly a month of rain. Excessive top-soil removal was also necessary. The interior upfit of the facility threw one more wrench in the process when the team was awarded two tenant additions. The team overcame those challenges by doubling crews, days and work hours.

The team completed the $14-million project on schedule and on budget with a clean safety record.

SCRA Applied Technologies Center at Nexton

Summerville, S.C.

Key Players
Owner South Carolina Research Authority
Lead Design Firm LS3P Associates
Contractor Choate Construction Co.
Structural Engineer Moore-Linder Engineering Inc.
MEP Engineer DWG Inc.