Contrary to those gym-type health clubs that focus primarily on physical fitness, the LivN Nsidout Sport & Wellness Center in Simpsonville, SC, offers a holistic approach to health. As reflected in the wellness center’s name, the philosophy at LivN Nsidout is that healthy living begins on the inside, with a proper diet and a positive state of mind, and then extends outward through exercise.
Reflecting its more sophisticated approach to wellness, the LivN Nsidout building looks as much like a modern medical building as it does a traditional health club. And part of the reason is the use of aluminum composite material wall panels on its exterior. But finish was only one of the reasons why McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture of North Charleston, SC, chose ACM.
“We selected the ACM because of its flexibility, finish, and efficiency,” said Kurt Ludwick, AIA, campus studio, director of sports architecture for McMillan Pazdan Smith. “The facade required flexible panel joinery at certain locations to match other elevation elements allowing for a more cohesive elevation aesthetic.”
ACM panels in two finishes—Mica Anodic Clear and Patina Copper Stone—were utilized on the project. Altech Panel Systems LLC of Cartersville, GA, fabricated them from 4mm-thick ALPOLIC ACM, which is manufactured by Mitsubishi Plastics Composites America Inc. of Chesapeake, VA. All told, just over 10,000 sq. ft. of the panels were installed SECO Architectural Systems Inc. of Snellville, GA.
The Patina Copper Stone and Mica Anodic Clear panels were used for the tower, and Mica Anodic Clear was used for the front canopy under the tower and the north wall canopy, column covers, and bump outs on the south and west walls.
“The marble finish on the tower panels allowed us to provide a mint green material that enhanced the building's color palette by matching the glass and paint throughout the facility, and it provided an unmistakable accent for the entrance,” Ludwick noted. “And the panel facade portion of the project was completed quickly, which helped to shorten the construction schedule.
“We are pleased with the panel aesthetic, and are very proud of the final project,” he added.
The 55,000 sq. ft., 2-Story Sports & Wellness complex includes conference rooms, a gymnasium and arena, group fitness studios, cardio cinema, weight rooms, second-floor indoor track, and a restaurant.
The project was completed in September 2009. The general contracting duties were handled by Harper Corporation of Greenville, SC.
About Mitsubishi Plastics Composites America
Mitsubishi Plastics Composites America, Inc is the global leader of aluminum and metal composite materials. With U.S. headquarters in Chesapeake, VA., Mitsubishi Plastics Composites America (MPCA) has been manufacturing the ALPOLIC® materials for architectural wall cladding and specialty applications markets since 1974. MPCA is truly a global presence, serving a worldwide customer base with products that offer innovation, style, and performance. To learn more, visit www.alpolic-usa.com.