Cutler Associates tops-off 65,000 s/f, 3-story residence hall at Anna Maria College; $9 million project designed by Cutler Design using design-build delivery

Cutler Associates has topped off its 200-bed residence hall at Anna Maria College. The $9 million project is designed by Cutler Design and is utilizing design-build delivery. Despite the challenges of this winter's weather, construction is proceeding on schedule. Much credit for this success lies in the design-build team's decision to use a pre-panelized, light-gauge steel structural system for the framework of the building. After a November 2010 start, the building will welcome its first residents this fall "With upfront cost savings that are typically lower than traditional steel framing, the system is ideal for multi-story residential projects, such as student housing," said Cutler's scholastic division market leader, Rod Shaffert. "Construction schedules are generally shorter because the factory-made materials are quickly delivered to the site followed by a fast installation. Other advantages that made the pre-panelized, pre-insulated system particularly attractive to Anna Maria College include an ultra-energy-efficient building shell, noise reduction, lower long-term maintenance costs, and long-term durability." The new 65,000 s/f, three-story complex will house second and third year students in suite-style accommodations. Each suite will house six students in single and double bedrooms. A number of common spaces and amenities provide opportunities for both formal and informal interaction among students, including a large community room on the first floor that includes space for gatherings and additional lounge, study, and laundry areas provided on each of the upper two floors.