GOLD MEDAL AWARD WINNER
The Building of America
Pirtle Construction Company Headquarters www.buildingofamerica.com
Precast Wall Solutions Encompass Integrity and Performance
Pricing and scheduling are significant factors for each project, and PWS prides itself on always dealing honestly with its customers. The company provides a competitive and realistic price right from the outset of the project, allowing the customer to budget with confidence. “Nobody likes surprises in the form of additional charges — especially ones that should have been factored into the bid,” says Stiles. “Additionally, scheduling to meet the project’s time constraints is vital to a project. Project managers need facts when dealing with all the various trades in order to make the work flow. Here again, honesty is always the rule rather than the exception.”
Leading by Example One recent project that illustrates the abilities and skill of PWS involved the demolition of an existing chain link fence, maintaining a secure site at all times while constructing more than 2,100 linear feet of eight-foothigh precast wall in a hostile area (which required police presence) in less than two weeks. For more than 23 years, Precast Wall Systems, Inc. (PWS) has been providing innovative and flexible precast wall solutions for commercial, residential, highway and municipal projects in the state of Florida. Founded in 1985 by Walter, Richard and David Stiles, PWS is a family-owned-andoperated company whose mission was to change the privacy wall industry. In 1985, the standard of the industry was louvered concrete fences, which were inherently destined to self destruct due to design flaws. PWS was determined to advance the industry by pioneering new precast wall system designs that would not self destruct over time. Additionally, the owners recognized a need for precast retaining walls for both earth-toearth and earth-to-water applications.
PWS’ groundbreaking precast wall solutions have set the standard for quality in the market. In addition, the company’s commitment and integrity surpass all other companies in the industry. Says Stiles, “Our straightforward and direct approach has been an important part of our reputation from the beginning, and will continue into the future.” — Corporate Profile
Setting new standards PWS developed the first solid panel wall system and the first 20-foot-long panel, which set the standard for the industry. The company manufactures a full range of products to meet all needs, including: • Standard Walls • Retaining Walls • Finals & Columns • Entryways The walls range from six to 20 feet in height, and all are constructed with superior engineering and performance.
Honesty and reliability as the rule “PWS has always specialized in the precast wall industry and nothing else, allowing us to meet our customers’ needs by staying focused on their needs for both design and schedule,” says Richard Stiles. “We offer turnkey service starting with the design process and leading to permitting, then in-house manufacturing of the product and installation by our seasoned installation crews.” Additional services include painting, anti-graffiti coatings, landscaping, tree service, professional land surveying and demolition of existing walls or fences.
1888 N.W. 22nd Ct. Pompano Beach, FL 33069 954.973.8488 f. 954.973.7772
www.precastwalls.com
Facts & Figures Owner: James B. Pirtle Type of Project: A new office building Size: Approximately 30,000 gross square feet Cost: $5 million (total, excluding land costs) Construction Time: June 2007 - January 2008 The Need: A new larger headquarters for Pirtle Construction Company The Challenge: Getting the subcontractors up to speed on LEED® requirements
Davie, Florida
Pirtle Construction Company Headquarters Due to growth in his company
the company’s strong commit-
be energy efficient and to realign
and the need for more space,
ment to sustainable construc-
the Pirtle Construction Company
James B. Pirtle, owner of Pirtle
tion practices, the construction
with its identity as a leader in the
Construction Company, decid-
was registered as a Leadership in
sustainable construction market,”
Pirtle Construction Company General Contractor
ed it was time to build a new,
Energy and Environmental Design
said Jose Murguido, AIA, vice
larger
(LEED ) project and subsequently
president of Zyscovich Architects,
Glass Tech Engineering, Inc. Glass & Glazing Contractor
Additionally, in order to provide
achieved silver certification.
the project’s architect.
Gold Medal Award-winning Team Members Zyscovich Architects Architect
Lighting Dynamics, Inc. (representing Lutron Electronics Co. Inc.) Lighting Control Systems Supplier Precast Wall Systems, Inc. Precast Concrete Site Wall
headquarters
building.
®
a better work environment for
“The early goals of the project
the company’s employees and
were to centralize business opera-
square-foot, class A office build-
The
two-story,
30,000-
create a building that reflected
tions, to create flexibility of use, to
ing consists of block masonry, continued on page 8
Sears Commercial Energy Star Appliance Provider
Photos courtesy of Moris Moreno Photography
gold medal award winner
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The Owner’s Perspective with James B. Pirtle, Owner, Pirtle Construction Company Q: What is the most innovative aspect of the project (or of the design/construction process, financing, environmental)? What could others learn from? JP: Besides the LEED® components of this project, I was not only the owner and financier, but the builder and tenant. The building was built to the standards that we are accustomed to delivering for our clients. My advice for building your own office is to start the LEED® process early on with the permitting and design to capture the most possible achievable credits. Purchase land that is already zoned for commercial construction and ensure that you communicate your design intent clearly to the architect. Hiring a seasoned team of professionals that have proven ability of delivering this level of facility is imperative to the project’s success.
Q: What were the greatest challenges encountered on this project? How, specifically, were they overcome? JP: The coordination of permitting with all of the agencies that were affected due to the location of the building on Griffin Road, a main artery in South Florida — the Town of Davie, Broward County and the State of Florida. After constructing the first Broward County LEED® silver project, the South Regional Broward Community College Library, Pirtle Construction became aware of the value of LEED® construction and sustainability and decided to redesign our office to incorporate LEED®. Our goal is to have the least impact on the environment while providing the healthiest working environment for our employees. I would have to say that the redesign and going back through changing mid-stream to turn this into a LEED® project wasn’t the easiest thing to do. Learning about the benefits of LEED® was the reason for the change mid-stream. We’re extremely pleased and very proud of our project. In terms of the LEED® aspect, getting the subcontractors to buy into LEED® standards was a big challenge. This was a learning curve for them, and we took a proactive approach to educate them before construction and help them through the process from recycling their construction debris to ensuring the ductwork was covered properly during construction.
Q: In all your experiences as an owner, what were some of the best lessons you have learned? JP: In my 40 years as an owner and general contractor, my advice would be that it is very challenging and you must have a passion and love for what you do. The gratification that we receive daily is the benefits and rewards of the community because of our quality construction of schools, public safety and municipal complexes and other community facilities. These buildings benefit the community for years to come and leave a lasting impression on the communities that we work, live and raise our families in. We take great pride in our projects. Hard work, dedication, integrity and earning the respect of others are imperative in running a successful long-term company. To be a successful GC, you need a lot of hard work and talented people to help you get there. That is what Pirtle Construction is built on. Our employees are our most valuable asset.
5700 Griffin Rd., Ste. 200 Davie, FL 33314 954-343-5970 www.pirtleconstruction.com
Leading Home Appliance Retailer Demonstrates Dedication to Customers and the Environment Sears Commercial prides itself on providing quality services, innovative products and helpful solutions
Sears Holding Corporation, the parent company of Kmart and Sears, Roebuck and Co., is the nation’s fourth-largest broadline retailer with more than $50 billion in annual revenues and approximately 3,800 fullline and specialty retail stores in the United States and Canada. As the commercial marketing arm for Sears Holdings, Sears Commercial is a complete appliance and lifestyle product resource designed specifically to meet the needs of today’s commercial customer. Sears Commercial specializes in serving the industry needs of builders, real estate professionals, realtors, property management companies and corporations. It offers unparalleled service and support to help ensure its customers’ success, demonstrating why it is the leading home appliance retailer in North America.
Experience and products that surpass the competition
Sears Commercial has been in business for more than 85 years and has a knowledgeable sales force, many of whom have been with the company for more than 25 years. “Our experience and range of product lines give us the ability to service a variety of business channels,” says Cathy Hill, director of sales development, marketing and merchandising for Sears Commercial. Sears is the only commercial appliance vendor to offer the 8 best-selling brands. “Our closest competitor only offers the top three,” notes Hill. Sears also has the largest service capabilities of any appliance retailer, with more than 10,000 technicians making more than 12 million home visits annually. Furthermore, Sears has its own lab where products are tested before they are sold, thus providing the expertise needed to confirm that each product meets the intended audience’s expectations.
“We often say ‘we don’t just sell appliances, we provide solutions to our customers’ needs,’” says Hill. “When a customer calls and says they need something tomorrow, Sears will do whatever it can to make it happen for them. Sears’ Ultimate Appliance Guarantee is paramount to that message: Order by 3:00 p.m. and have it delivered the next day.” In addition, we often have customers who seek large quantities of products that are outside ‘our norm.’ Whether it is tents for disaster areas or bicycles for special incentives, we’ll work to make it happen.”
At the forefront of innovative, energy-efficient products
Sears Commercial is well-known for selling Kenmore, a leader in innovative appliances. Because modern appliances are much more energy-efficiency focused now than 10 years ago, Sears has become the number-one retailer of ENERGY STAR products. Examples include the ENERGY STAR dishwasher that runs on just two gallons of water, and the Kenmore Oasis HT washer, which not only cleans better than any other washer available today, but is also eco-friendly, saving 69 percent water and 67 percent energy usage.
In addition, to demonstrate the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability, Sears has programs aimed at strengthening its paper policy, reducing energy consumption at its stores and recycling at its facilities. Furthermore, Sears Holding took the lead amongst retailers to join the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) voluntary Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) program. RAD promotes environmentally responsible disposal of household appliances and aims to significantly reduce emissions of ozone-depleting substances and greenhouse gases. Sears is committed to improving the lives of its customers by providing quality services, innovative products and helpful solutions. Sears Commercial offers the most brands of any appliance retailer, and is the only company that services everything it sells. Furthermore, Sears’ dedication to environmental sustainability exemplifies the importance of the corporation being a positive, contributing member of the communities in which it is located. — Corporate Profile
2417 Regency Blvd, Suite 6 • Augusta, GA 30904-7003 Phone: 1-800-359-2000 www.searshc.com
Lutron Electronics Co., Inc. 7200 Sutter Rd. Coopersburg, PA 18036 Sidwell Friends School in Washington, DC uses the EcoSystem™ lighting control solution from Lutron.
Lutron’s Quantum total light management system is saving 70% in lighting energy costs for Georgian College in Ontario, Canada.
610-282-3800 fax: 610-282-6437 www.lutron.com
Photo courtesy of Moris Moreno Photography
continued from page 3
cast-in-place
concrete
and
a
certification. “It was the first time
reach their full potential,” said
pitched standing seam metal
our company had joined Pirtle
Bill Ellis, LEED AP, project execu-
building constructed in the town
roof. According to Murguido, the
Construction in developing a con-
tive and assistant vice president
of Davie, the new headquarters
building utilizes Florida traditional
struction project,” said Reymon
for Pirtle Construction. “Not only
building has pioneered the way
frame vernacular architecture with
Perez, vice president/chief estima-
did Mr. Pirtle make the commit-
for sustainable design and con-
covered porches, deep overhangs,
tor of Glass Tech. “We were hon-
ment financially to build the new
struction within the municipal-
an enhanced insulated roof sys-
ored to be able to contribute our
building, but he also felt that with
ity, according to Murguido. The
tem and a highly reflective roof
services in the Pirtle Construction
the new building should come
building’s
surface to minimize heat gain.
main office and meet the LEED
a focused atmosphere of pride,
include a 50 percent reduction
The design of the roof also meets
certification on this project.”
which includes all new furnishings,
in water use for irrigation and a
®
As
the
first
LEED®-certified
LEED ®
components
strict local code requirements
The new building’s first floor
artwork, increased common areas
42.7 percent reduction for plumb-
for enhanced wind loading and
houses a private gym and class A
like the kitchen and dining area
ing fixtures. Energy efficiency is
hurricane protection, resulting in
office space, which will eventu-
with an extended outdoor patio,
achieved through the use of the
a hip configuration to provide
ally be leased out. The second
and a gymnasium to promote the
reflective roofing materials and
maximum coverage and the most
floor includes a complete class
health of the employees.”
windows and improved insulation
stable structural design.
A office suite that serves as the
“Nothing was spared when
values and wall assemblies. The
Light exterior building colors,
Pirtle Construction headquarters.
building out our headquarters,”
new Lutron Ecosystem, provided
covered porches to protect entries,
The interior design of the build-
agreed Pirtle. Granite tile, mahog-
by Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.,
as well as sun canopies and low e-
ing is flexible to accommodate
any doors, brushed steel hardware
integrates five unique lighting
coated glazing materials shade
the company’s changing future
and the highest quality materials
control systems with daylighting
windows, minimizing direct heat
needs, and Pirtle Construction’s
were purchased along with brand-
and occupancy levels, permit-
gain and water infiltration. Glass
space was designed and built
new built-in desks, credenzas,
ting the maximum efficiency of
Tech Engineering, Inc. performed
with employees in mind. “Pirtle
shelves and lighting. “The build-
the enhanced exterior window
the glass and glazing scope of
is dedicated to our staff and giv-
ing was built to the standards that
daylighting to be realized while
the work on the windows, con-
ing them the best tools, technol-
we are accustomed to delivering
reducing the use of electricity.
tributing to the project’s LEED®
ogy and work environment to
for our clients.”
“The owners wanted something
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gold medal award winner
unique that could be showcased when
walking
through
their
building. These systems are an integral yet visible element to the total success of the project,” said Sleiman Zogheib, CPMR, CSP, LEED AP, director of Controls & Technology at Lighting Dynamics, Inc.
(representing
Lutron
Electronics Co., Inc.). Additional sustainable features of the project include the use of green power, which was purchased to offset the building’s anticipated energy use. “This is a class A office that was committed to reducing our footprint on the environment by utilizing recycled materials, such as Green Label carpet and purchasing regional materials produced within 500 miles, such as the concrete,” said Pirtle. “We were also dedicated to the health of our employees and followed a strict indoor air quality plan using only approved adhesives and sealants that con-
of species habitats. Furthermore,
tained low volatile organic com-
parking is reserved for both fuel-
pounds (VOC) and paints that
efficient and carpool vehicles,
were labeled Green Seal.” A con-
encouraging not only employees,
struction waste management plan
but also tenants and visitors, to
exceeded the intended goal and
be conscious of the impact of
achieved an 82 percent diversion
automobile use.
of waste from landfills. Furthermore,
One of the greatest challenges the
on the project, according to both
commercial products used in the
many
of
Murguido and Pirtle, was that
building were Kenmore Energy
there was not a large base of local
Star appliances, supplied by Sears
subcontractors with prior sus-
Commercial, that are not only
tainable construction experience
high quality but also eco-friendly.
located in South Florida, so it was
“We are the go-to experts for the
necessary for the majority of the
right commercial products and
subcontractors to become familiar
services,” said Cathy Hill, direc-
with LEED® standards. “This was
tor of sales development, market-
a learning curve for them and
ing and merchandising for Sears
we took a proactive approach to
Commercial. “It was this mixture
educate them before construc-
of products and services provided
tion and help them through the
that were a major factor in the
process from recycling their con-
overall success of the project.”
struction debris to ensuring duct-
On the site, Pirtle planted only native Photos courtesy of Moris Moreno Photography
gold medal award winner
plants
and
work was covered properly during
maximized
construction,” said Pirtle. “All of
open space for encouragement
the people that worked on the job continued on page 14
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The General Contractor’s Perspective with Bill Ellis, LEED AP, Project Executive, Assistant Vice President, Pirtle Construction Company Q: What is the most innovative aspect of the project (or of the design/construction process)? What could other owners learn from for their future projects? BE: Build with the end in mind. We truly designed and built this project for Pirtle employees. Pirtle is dedicated to our staff and giving them the best tools, technology and work environment to reach their full potential. Not only did Mr. Pirtle make the commitment financially to build the new building, but he also felt that with the new building should come a focused atmosphere of pride, which includes all new furnishings, artwork, increased common areas like the kitchen dining area with an extended outdoor patio, and a gymnasium to promote the health of the employees. Pirtle employees have longevity with the company because of this commitment.
Q: How did you work with the architect and owner to save time and/or money on the project? How was value engineering applied to your responsibility? BE: It was an ongoing team commitment to get the best quality to showcase the success of all the hard work that has been put into growing Pirtle Construction over the past 40 years in business.
Q: What were some of the lessons learned from this project? BE: Start LEEDÂŽ commitment from concept and continue it through completion.
5700 Griffin Rd., Ste. 200 Davie, FL 33314 954-343-5970 www.pirtleconstruction.com
The Architect’s Perspective with Jose Murguido, AIA, Vice President, Zyscovich Architects Q: Describe the project in relative detail, incorporating what you think makes the project unique, innovative or sets it apart. How does the design complement the overall mission of the facility and owner? JM: The design approach of the Pirtle Office Building was to create a building which captures the long tradition of high-quality construction while also reflecting the company’s strong commitment to green/ sustainable construction practices. This building was the first LEED®certified building constructed in the town of Davie, Florida, and has pioneered the way for sustainable design and construction within the municipality. The early goals of the project were to centralize business operations, to create flexibility of use, to be energy efficient and to realign the Pirtle Construction Company with its identity as a leader in the sustainable construction market.
Q: What were the greatest challenges encountered on this project, either from your firm’s point of view or as a project team? JM: The base of local subcontractors with sustainable construction experience in the South Florida market, while increasing, was a challenge, but became an opportunity for the development of jobsite and material standards to ensure the project goals for USGBC LEED® certification were maintained, from materials used to practices for covering ductwork and
Photo courtesy of Zyscovich, Inc.
eliminating smoking from the interior of the building construction area.
Q: What were some of the lessons learned from this project? JM: The primary lesson learned is to begin planning early and to communicate with all members of the team, most notably the permitting agencies which have jurisdiction. We found their input invaluable to the success of the project from the perspective of planning down to the implementation of signage standards and planting selections. Communication was also key to the success of the construction team in the field. Education of subcontractors and workforce personnel starts with daily communication, job signs and commitment through contractual obligations that the sustainable standards and goals for the project are being met.
100 N. Biscayne Blvd., 27th Floor Miami, FL 33132 305-372-5222 www.zyscovich.com
Photo courtesy of Moris Moreno Photography
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continued from page 9
were very interested in seeing that we did build a LEED® building and took pride in everything that was done on the project.” Precast
Wall
Systems,
Inc.,
which provided the precast concrete site wall for the project, was an integral team member in keeping the job on track. “We brought our scope of work in ahead of schedule and right on budget,” said Richard Stiles, president of Precast Wall Systems. Pirtle Construction has been headquartered in Davie for more than 34 years and has constructed multiple projects within the town for multiple clients, therefore its relationship with the building department and the Town of Davie staff ensured a smooth permitting
process.
Zyscovich
was chosen as the architect on Photos courtesy of Moris Moreno Photography
14
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the project because of the firm’s relationship in designing and constructing more than 45 projects with Pirtle Construction and its unique design capabilities. The local subcontractors who were hired all had previous experience working for Pirtle Construction on local projects and understood the quality and level of commitment needed to be successful with Pirtle Construction. The Pirtle Construction team that handled the management of the headquarters project all had many years of experience managing projects, overseeing budgets and schedules, and reporting and communicating with all team members. “The longstanding relationship between all parties, using a team approach, made it the success that it was,” said Pirtle. The new Pirtle Construction headquarters building was constructed so that employees would have more space and thus be able to provide the best services to their clients. Not only was this goal met, but also the building itself was designed and constructed so the employees themselves would be working in an environmentally sustainable building that provides amenities intended for their use. As a testament to the success of this project, the building has won numerous awards, including the 2007 South Florida Business Journal Awards of Excellence in Real Estate – Office; the 2008 ABC Excellence in Construction Eagle Award for Commercial under $5 million; the 2008 ABC National Excellence in Construction Eagle Award for Commercial $2-5 million; the 2008 Greener Tomorrow Award, which recognizes commitment to sustaining resources; and the 2008 Design-Build Institute of America Partnership Award. n — Stacey Nathanson Photos courtesy of Moris Moreno Photography
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24445 Northwestern Hwy. Ste. 218 • Southfield, MI 48075 • 248-945-4700 • fax: 248-945-4701 • www.buildingofamerica.com