A space-restricted site in historic downtown Charleston created unusual demands for the Medical University of South Carolina. The new retail, office, and parking structure needed to complement both a neighboring historical high school and the modern MUSC hospital, as well as accommodate 700 vehicles. The innovative solution? Architectural wall panels with sandblast finish and inlay brick that blend seamlessly with the surroundings and support a total precast structure.
Owner
Medical University of South Carolina
Location
Charleston, SC
The site for this construction was especially tight and limited by Charleston city codes. The overall footprint of the site was only 151 feet by 320 feet. Despite the constraints, this mixed-use structure at MUSC features seven elevated levels of parking (with 700 parking spaces), allowing for above-ground-level retail stores and office spaces.
The high-density concept meets all egress, open-air, fire, and seismic design requirements, as well as the demanding Charleston historical district requirements. The long life cycle and low maintenance of this coastal environment construction was ensured with precast, prestressed concrete, stainless steel connectors, and hot-dip galvanized embeds.
