Media Relations:
Laurie Gaynor
R.F. Stearns
503-723-5972
laurie@rfstearns.com

STEARNS ASSISTED IN “BUILDING GREEN” FOR TERRY AVENUE OFFICE BUILDING

Seattle, Washington, April 7, 2008–Design·Build·Steel contractor R.F. Stearns, Inc. is pleased to announce the recent completion of a four-story, Class-A office building with two levels of below grade parking for First Western Development Services, known as Terry Avenue Office Building.  Designed by Weber + Thompson, this 70,000 square foot structure is seeking LEED Gold certification to obtain “Green Building” recognition for its energy-efficient design. It is Seattle’s first office building constructed without air conditioning in nearly 50 years resulting in an energy savings of approximately 30 percent.  Exterior sunshades located on the East and West sides of the office windows reduce sun penetration, and a heat-reflective coating was used on the roof to keep offices cooler during the summer months. Exposed SmartBeam® castellated steel beams were chosen for the structure not only for their aesthetic appeal but to promote cross-ventilation within the courtyard area and throughout the building complex. Custom four-story green screens within the atrium facilitate vegetation growth. This unique architecture incorporates natural light, efficient heating systems and 100 percent recyclable steel construction materials.

Stearns was brought on-board early at the recommendation of Rafn Company to assist DCI Engineers with steel framing and connection solutions, stair systems design and specialty architectural features of the exterior sunshades and green screens. The structure consists of steel columns and wide flange beams within the parking garage levels and hexagonal-shaped castellated beams frame the remaining four levels.  Stearns’ in-house detailing staff proactively provided detailed connection configuration and framing optimization while progressing with component selection, procurement and fabrication. Stearns worked in close collaboration with Rafn Company to manage the delivery sequence and steel erection process. Recognizing Stearns project participation, Steve Stroming, Project Manager, Rafn Company stated; “R.F. Stearns’ expert management and coordination of the structural and architectural steel packages were invaluable to erecting the building smoothly and efficiently. They are team players and conduct their business with professional integrity. We look forward to the next opportunity to work together.”

Shane Taylor, Project Manager, R.F. Stearns, Inc. explained, “It was a pleasure to work in conjunction with the entire construction team. Our early involvement enabled us to assist the Owner and Team with meeting their structural steel, budgetary and accelerated schedule objectives to successfully complete this uniquely designed, steel-framed office building on time and within budget.”

About Stearns

R.F. Stearns is recognized as a pioneer of the design/build process for steel construction, and with over twenty-five years of experience, remains an industry-leading expert. Stearns professional teams of engineers, designers, detailers and project managers provide comprehensive accountability for every facet of steel construction, including conceptual design, estimating, structural detailing, fabrication and steel erection.

In addition to providing complete Division 5 services for steel construction, Stearns is the exclusive provider of innovative, long-span SmartBeam® technology and light-gauge steel framing systems throughout the Western United States. 

To learn more about R.F. Stearns’ design/build capabilities, SmartBeam® or light-gauge steel framing applications, we extend an invitation to contact us at our West Linn, OR headquarters, 503-723-5959, or visit our website at www.rfstearns.com