Retirement Systems of Alabama Headquarters

Architect:
PH&J Architects, Inc

General Contractor:
Jim Parker Building Company

Robinson Iron Project Managers:
J. Scott Howell and
Harry Slyhoff

The new corporate headquarters of The Retirement Systems of Alabama represents the best in architecture and innovation.  In this stellar design

by PH & J Architects a connecting parking deck’s top level is designed as a terrace to be used for special functions. In order to allow natural light to reach lower levels the architects placed specially fabricated aluminum “Lanterns” along the terrace’s axis. Waterjet cut grilles cover translucent glass panels in each assembly and are operable allowing them to be cleaned. A planter bed with low seating increases the Lantern’s functionality while greening the space. All of the specially tapered and anodized aluminum panels that comprise the outer skin of these structures were manufactured with the waterjet cutting technique.

The parking deck is connected to the interior of the building with an over-scaled “Bridge”. Waterjet cut materials enhance the specially cast column components used in the design. Robinson crews assisted in the placement of these large and impressive prefabricated trusses.

A series of ramps with a stainless steel handrail allow easy access to the building. What could have been a rather mundane feature of the building was made very special through the use of waterjet cutting. Small custom brackets connect the tubular handrail to the posts and a decorative combination of polished and sandblasted textures give added interest to the railing.

Many smaller waterjet details give the complex a special quality. Inlaid bronze strips in the marble tile flooring and on the entrance railing enhance the overall effect. A decorative Oculus provides a focal point at the end of the parking deck terrace. With this easy and versatile medium architects and designers will continue to visualize using waterjet cut materials that delight the eye and surprise the mind.

Aerial view showing the terrace and parking deck entrance.

Each “Lantern” covers a light well to the space below.

The fabricated structures loaded on Robinson’s truck for delivery.

The Interior Bridge connects the lower parking areas to the lobby.

View of bridge ( at left ) from upper floors.

Custom cast iron and waterjet cut steel plate column bases.

Handicapped Access Railing

Part of Robinson’s installation crew, Othell McCain, surveys the week’s work.

A combination of finish textures enhances the appearance of the railing.

Waterjet cutting of bronze strips allows for a precision fit into the marble flooring.

Many smaller specialty fabrications such as this stainless steel gate add to the overall effect.

Custom cast bronze posts were used for both interior and exterior railings.

A decorative waterjet cut Oculus located on axis with the terrace adds just the right focal point.