When pets need care beyond the capabilities of the local vet, they’re sent to places like the new Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center in Levittown, PA. The 21,000 sq. ft. referral hospital, which has a staff of surgeons, cardiologists, anesthesiologists and even an acupuncturist, has its own intensive care unit, a CT scanner, radiation therapy and ultrasound equipment, two surgical suites and separate wards for dogs and cats. To reflect the sophistication of the care and capabilities pet owners can expect on the inside, PZS Architects Inc. of Philadelphia gave the building a high-tech look on the outside. Central to its design were Shadow Series metal wall panels by Holland, MI-based Dri-Design.
The Shadow Series is a relatively new product that offers complete customization and limitless texture and shadow pattern possibilities, thanks to the ability of each individual panel face to extend to varying depths. The Levittown veterinary hospital features 1,100 sq. ft. of Shadow Series panels on its exterior, along with another 2,600 sq. ft. of traditional Dri-Design .080”-thick aluminum rainscreen panels.
David Polatnick was PZS’ principal-in-charge. Of the project, he said, “Image was very important. We wanted to create an identity that would convey confidence and reflect the high level of care offered to pet owners as well as referring veterinarians. The exterior materials made a tremendous impact on the façade. And from a practical standpoint, the use of the Shadow Series panels really helped break up the box and deliver a nice architectural feeling. The shadow lines provide significant depth and help create interest and scale.”
Handling the product installation was Metal Structures Inc. of Cinnaminson, NJ.
Dri-Design panels are 100% recyclable and can be made from a variety of materials including zinc, copper, stainless steel and painted and anodized aluminum. Panels are available in any Kynar color and are sized and detailed to meet the specific requirements of each project. The cost effective system is Dade County and AAMA 508-07 approved.