Empirehouse partnered with W. Gohman Construction and MSR Design to deliver a striking and technically complex curtainwall system for the St. Cloud Library. While the design called for a standardized framing system, the architecture introduced unique challenges—flared radius walls, extended wings, multiple roof slopes, and oversized glass lites measuring up to 56″ x 163″ and weighing over 500 pounds each.

To navigate the intricacies of multiple glass coatings, colors, and complex geometries, Empirehouse implemented a meticulous coordination and pre-planning strategy. Every curtainwall opening was “virtually” measured before construction, allowing the frames to fit flawlessly once onsite.

Humidity control and deflection performance were also critical. Empirehouse integrated ties to the air barrier system for humidity balance and engineered the glass wall system to accommodate 1-1/2″ of deflection without compromising the air seal.

The result is a bold architectural statement that delivers both energy efficiency and transparency. The use of low-E fritted glass brings in generous natural daylight while maintaining optimal comfort and performance.

Scope:

• Custom curtainwall system with complex geometries

• Oversized glass lites (up to 56″ x 163″)

• Floor-to-ceiling interior all-glass walls

• All-glass stair railings

• All-glass elevator enclosures

• All-glass doors

There are many unique glass features that make up the Westminster Presbyterian Church expansion project, such as a structurally glazed point-supported system with heavy tempered glass fins and glass units treated with a dichroic film application to simulate modern stained glass, a 30-foot wide by a seven-foot-high domed skylight, an over-sized sliding glass door systems, a folding glass wall system for sound control, and curtainwall with custom fly-by conditions. These specialized glass features involved a collaborative effort between many members from Empirehouse project management, fabrication, and field installation team who pooled their thoughts to develop a comprehensive installation plan and keep the project running on schedule. Empirehouse was able to use a variety of our team members to help to identify the client’s needs to ensure a timely release of material, so fabrication and installation could meet the demands of the schedule.

Scope:

• Project scope and constructability review
• Aesthetic selection and product integration
• Structural engineering and detail development
• Revit modeling design and VDC integration
• Computer-simulated thermal modeling
• 11,000 LF total area of windows