The first architect to design modern skyscrapers, Louis Sullivan, famously coined the phrase “Form follows function” in his 1896 essay, The Tall Office Building Artistically Considered. In this influential piece, Sullivan argued that a building’s exterior should reflect its interior purpose. He believed that function should dictate form. His theory became a guiding principle of modern architecture.
Sullivan’s structures stood out for their impressive height at the time and their beautiful exterior finishings. His most well-known projects, the Wainwright Building in St. Louis and the Prudential Building in Buffalo, featured distinctive exterior elements. Each element corresponds to the various functions in the building, from office spaces to mechanical rooms, retail areas, and attic storage. Sullivan’s designs would become known to be aesthetically pleasing and deeply functional.
Sullivan’s influence extended beyond his work. His apprentice, the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, expanded on his ideas and took them further. Wright came to believe that form didn’t just follow function but that the two were inherently intertwined. He showcased his belief in his work by crafting unique, groundbreaking designs that harmonized function with nature, climate, and human needs. Sullivan and Wright’s contributions to architecture are still studied today and paved the way for modern design principles. Their ideas continue to influence engineers and designers like us today and guide the way we think about how buildings should serve their needs and be aesthetically pleasing.
A new headquarters for Ridge Rock Inc.
One of our recent projects was the new Bluffdale headquarters for Ridge Rock Inc., a paving company based in Utah. This project presented a unique challenge: the facility needed to function as a corporate headquarters and a working vehicle maintenance shop with an equipment storage yard. Our task was to create a design that seamlessly combined these needs while serving as a visually appealing and functional structure.
Blending form and function
The dual purpose of the Ridge Rock Inc. headquarters inspired our team. Since the building had to accommodate administrative offices for leadership, project managers, and estimators, it needed a professional and elevated look. However, it also needed a practical and durable space for vehicle maintenance and equipment storage. To reflect these two unique interior purposes in the exterior finishings, we carefully selected two contrasting materials that reflected the purpose of each area for our exterior design. The two primary materials we used in the exterior design were:
1. Durable concrete masonry unit (CMU)
CMU is a precast concrete block known for its strength and resilience. It is commonly used in construction for its exceptional durability, resistance to weathering, and fireproof qualities. CMU was the perfect choice for the vehicle maintenance area for this project, providing a sturdy and fire-resistant barrier between the shop and the administrative offices. This ensured a safe, long-lasting structure capable of withstanding the wear and tear associated with heavy machinery and daily operations.
2. Striking weathering steel panels
We selected weathering steel panels for the administrative offices to create a visually striking contrast. These panels are made from a steel alloy that forms a protective oxidation layer over time, giving the metal a distinctive reddish hue. Unlike traditional rust, this patina protects against further corrosion, making the material both low-maintenance and highly durable. Next to the CMU blocks, the weathering steel provided a bold, modern look that elevated the overall design of the building, distinguishing the corporate side from the industrial elements of the facility.
Incorporating natural elements
Inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s philosophy of integrating nature into design, we wanted to introduce a natural element that would tie the two contrasting materials together. We incorporated natural wood siding at the building’s main entryway to achieve this. This addition softened the transition between the industrial CMU and the bold weathering steel, creating a warm and inviting entrance for employees and visitors. The natural wood complemented the surrounding landscape, reinforcing the idea that architecture should blend harmoniously with its environment.
A forward-thinking headquarters
This project was an exciting opportunity for our team at McNeil Engineering to apply the principles of form and function in a meaningful way. We worked closely with Ridge Rock Inc. to ensure the final design met their operational needs while delivering an aesthetically pleasing and enduring structure. We created a functional and visually dynamic headquarters by carefully selecting materials that reflected the building’s dual purpose.
Including the natural wood entryway further enhanced the building’s appeal, reinforcing the thoughtful balance between industrial durability and modern design. The result was a headquarters that not only met Ridge Rock Inc.’s expectations but exceeded them, providing a space that is as practical as striking.
Committed to thoughtful design
Our team enjoyed working on this project. When we began the initial concept work with Ridge Rock Inc., we wanted to ensure that every element served a purpose, enhanced usability, and looked great. We were able to exceed their expectations in a unique way that will serve them for years to come. Our years of experience listening to our clients, expanding on their initial vision, and using sound engineering and design principles helped guide us on this project and many others. So, if you’re looking for a team to help with your next project, contact us today!
