Location: Detroit, MI

Owner: Wayne State University

Scope of Work: Exterior travertine wall cladding; Exterior granite base; interior travertine walls and floors, exterior travertine and granite benches, travertine reception desk; 30,000 sf of stonework.

Materials:

  • Roman Classic Travertine – Ext. bench cladding, Ext. & Int. wall cladding, Int. floor pavers, Main reception desk – Vein Cut – honed finish
  • Nordic Black Granite – Ext. bench and building base – 3cm Polished
  • Dakota Mahogany Granite – Int. wall cladding – 2cm polished

Description:

The Medical Education building on Wayne State University’s campus in downtown Detroit uses an Italian travertine with Canadian black granite base for the exterior cladding. After two trips to visit the travertine quarry outside of Rome, Italy we were able to deliver a very successful project for the architect and Wayne State. The joint pattern and panel layout was designed to reflect the DNA structure of a major project contributor and was accented by the caulked joints filled with a dark bronze color. We were able to work out the inherent characteristics of the travertine to accomplish this design by using additional structural travertine ribs and mechanical anchors. The travertine is used throughout the project including the exterior cladding, exterior benches, interior floor and walls, and the main information desk. Also, the Stapleton Room is clad with Dakota Mahogany wall panels and countertops.

Project Duration: 2004 – 2005

 Partners

Wayne State University
DSA Architects
Walbridge Aldinger
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