Voters in Martin, Michigan were asked for more money to fund substantial facilities upgrades at Martin High School. By a 2-1 margin, they voted Yes, allowing plans to move forward for the construction of a new auditorium, a new gymnasium, new outdoor athletic facilities and more. Among the products utilized in the design and construction of the two new building sections were aluminum composite panels by Alucoil. 

Architectural Glass & Metal, Inc., of Kalamazoo, Mich., fabricated and installed 16,000 square feet of Alucoil’s 4 mm larson^® FR (fire retardant) composite panels for the ambitious project. larson FR is designed to be used for cladding architectural facades. The mineral FR core delays combustion for an installation so the wall assembly will pass the stringent NFPA 285 compliance.

“It was the predominant enclosure component of the addition and renovation of Martin High School,” says David Sheasley, RA, Vice President, Marketing at Architectural Glass & Metal. “We were the single-source envelope enclosure supplier; hence we were afforded the opportunity to develop the transition details between the composite panels and the translucent panels from Kalwall. We provided a clean, trim-free aesthetic that is very much appreciated by architects and customers.

“We recognize that the devil is in the details and we strive to provide aesthetically pleasing solutions that meet or exceed specified performance criteria.”

The new auditorium and gymnasium additions were designed and instructional technology equipment was updated to enhance learning opportunities at Martin High School. The new auditorium seats more than 400 and includes a new scene shop and storage space. The new gymnasium serves both students and the surrounding area with a community walking track. The plan included improvements to safety, security and operational efficiencies for district facilities. Operational efficiencies include mechanical, electrical and plumbing upgrades or replacements.

New athletic facilities were also included, including a football field, two softball fields, a varsity baseball field and track and field facilities.

In addition to the larson ACM and translucent wall panel systems, Architectural Glass & Metal was in charge of supplying and installing girts and insulation associated with the enclosure, as well as the aluminum curtainwall, storefront, entrances and glazing assemblies specified for the new additions.

Sheasley says the fabrication of larson^® FR panels for soffits on the canopy that runs alongside the new gymnasium leading to the parking lot was quite challenging due to the fact the canopy extends to a precise knifepoint, creating the need for unique geometrical shaped soffit panels, including some with five sides.

“It’s a unique architectural feature,” Sheasley says. “It definitely stands out.”