LaSalle University Features Garapa Wood Rainscreen

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When new residences were being designed for LaSalle University, the project came in significantly over budget.  To keep the design intent intact, the architects scaled the project back slightly and reconfigured the design. They chose Garapa hardwood siding and the Climate-Shield Rainscreen system and didn't need to sacrifice looks.

Garapa wood rainscreen vertical installation LaSalle University

A nighttime view of the Garapa wood siding at the courtyard entry

The architectural team at Strada LLC was able to shave over $1 M off the budget with their innovative design approach, without sacrificing quality or beauty.  According to project architect Aaron Bell, the Garapa hardwood siding was a key design element; “It’s a gorgeous material and easy to maintain.”  The project was scaled to a one and a half story structure, so the design team elected to design the wood rainscreen vertically. This helps create a linear effect emphasizing height.

 

Vertical Garapa Wood Rainscreen siding at Christian Brothers Home Lasalle University Philadelphia

Garapa wood rainscreen siding installed vertically emphasizes height

 

This section of campus is a new communal living residence for 14 retired Christian Brothers. The designers were able to reflect the ‘unpretentious aesthetic values’ of the Brothers by ‘mixing exterior stucco with wood siding’. The use of these two classic building materials not only helped keep the budget within scope, it also lent the project much of its natural beauty.  the specification and usage of the Climate-Shield rainscreen system helps ensure the integrity of the sustainable design and performance.

 

 

The interior courtyard and chapel provide a peaceful and private area for prayer, reflection, and serenity.  The plantings and walkways, with the simple look of stucco and wood siding as a backdrop, provides much warmth and natural beauty.  Garapa is a lighter toned hardwood that is exceptionally durable and is also an affordable option for projects where natural beauty is a design goal.

 

Garapa hardwood rainscreen sidingThe chapel, with Garapa rainscreen, soffits, decking and railings

 

Garapa decking, railings, soffits and siding add warmth and beauty on all three planes of an elevated deck. With the natural wood ceiling and decking and cozy seating, an embracing and relaxing outdoor area is created.  Garapa decking is tough and durable, yet lighter toned and affordable.

 

Garapa decking, railing soffits and vertical siding at Lasalle University

Garapa decking, siding, soffits and railings wrap this deck area

 

The hands-on team at Katzianer Construction Company, Inc. built out the entire project. Their skilled workforce features ‘the best trained craftspersons in the area”.  Their skillful installation of the rainscreen siding, soffits and decking are top notch work.

 

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