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Wilmington, NC Project selected for Butler Manufacturing National Publication
Rick M. Collins, AIA of Becker Morgan Group had the opportunity to serve as the architect of record for the recently completed “once in a lifetime project” called Paraclete XP SkyVenture, which was featured in the Spring 2009 issue of Building Profit. Butler Manufacturing’s national publication showcased this unique building home to an equally unique business. Paraclete XP SkyVenture, LLC located in Raeford, North Carolina provides indoor training for military, professional, and recreational skydivers. Rick M. Collins, AIA had the privilege of overseeing this project from the initial design phase (while under previous employment at Sharpe Architecture) through the construction phase services (with Becker Morgan Group).The architectural design revolved around the massive wind tunnel and airflow system as well as the skeletal steel necessary to support this supertunnel. Two separate buildings were designed, one to house the lobby and administrative spaces and the other for the wind tunnel/flight chamber which is an acrylic cylinder to allow spectators to watch the skydivers. The buildings are linked by two walkway bridges creating the look of one unified building. Successful completion of SkyVenture was accomplished through extensive coordination between the architect, builder, and pre-engineered building component manufacturer. According to Collins, “some panels for the towers were going up 70 feet, so we had to be very specific where and how they were attached … we came back with detail drawings showing each attachment point for final review and worked with the engineers at Butler and CSI.” The entire team worked collaboratively to address the extraordinary design and construction challenges and successfully complete this project within the tight schedule constraints, requiring the project to be completed in 10 months. Please click "more info" below for the full article.
April 9, 2009