more feedsThe Smith Center - Putting Rumors to Bed
I received several blog comments and emails from concerned readers regarding the limestone facade at the Smith Center. These schooled construction and architecture industry folks pointed out that the facade image I posted didn't appear to be real limestone and that the facade looked like EIFS to them.
The photos also show-off the beautiful stainless-steel deco plaques that will adorn the facade and the granite skirt.
Well rest assured, I researched this with a trip back to the site. This time I ventured through the gate to get a closer look. It seems that there are two facades and the earlier photo didn't show the real limestone side of the mock-up. And there is was, beautiful thick limestone. I inquired about the non-limestone side and was told that is was a three-step plaster process that resembles limestone. This less expensive facade will be used on the non-public areas of the building. See the new photos here See the new photos here
I was informed that NO EIFS will be used on this project. After all this is a building designed to last 200 years and will have LEED Green Building status.
I was informed that NO EIFS will be used on this project. After all this is a building designed to last 200 years and will have LEED Green Building status.
The photos also show-off the beautiful stainless-steel deco plaques that will adorn the facade and the granite skirt.
Posted by Mark Adams at 7/5/2010 2:33 AM 
Categories: Construction Photo Updates, Vegas Project Updates
Tags: construction smith center photos news
Categories: Construction Photo Updates, Vegas Project Updates
Tags: construction smith center photos news
What can you tell us about the plan for the complex that makes for 'public' and 'non-public' areas with exterior facades? A lot of courtyards making for the 'non-public' spaces? 'Public' meaning street facing?
Reply to this
Everything points to this being a very handsome building. What a great asset to downtown.
Reply to this
off question:
how is the new city hall doing?
Reply to this
Yes this is a good question, also maybe terminal 3 at the airport would be a good update too.
Reply to this
The Smith Center is a complete missed opportunity. Glad to see they are trying to design for longevity in terms of construction quality...but if celebrating "no EIFS" is one of the top merits of this facility...we're in trouble.
At what point will Las Vegas fully embrace the actual desert context and stop emulating other styles. The building's style feels trapped in time.
I simply do not understand how this aesthetic is an appropriate expression as one of the first major civic works of architecture in the 61 acres or city in general.
A sadly missed opportunity.
Reply to this