This issue, Precast Solutions magazine sits down with Morris Adjmi Architects to discuss the company’s involvement with precast concrete products and projects.

The 83 Walker building in the Tribeca East Historic District of New York City features a concrete facade. Photo courtesy of Morris Adjmi Architects
Q: What is your field of focus?
Morris Adjmi Architects interprets the historic forces that shape our cities to design buildings that are both contextual and contemporary. Our diverse team of architects and interior designers is guided by a shared belief that timeless ideas about beauty and harmony can be integrated into the modern built environment, but the expression of those ideas must reflect the way we live today. We are a leader in the revitalization of post-industrial neighborhoods and historic districts with commercial, residential and cultural projects that are imbued with a distinct sense of place and purpose.
Q: What are the benefits of using precast concrete products?
The benefits are the ability to create interesting shapes, the speed in process and the lower cost is also a helpful factor.
Q: What are some unique or interesting projects on which you specified precast concrete?
The nine-story 83 Walker in the Tribeca East Historic District of New York City features a concrete facade that reflects the historic architectural processes that have shaped New York while taking inspiration from contemporary artist Rachel Whiteread.

A facade of terracotta arches created by precast panels grace the 408 Greenwich building in NYC. Photo courtesy of Morris Adjmi Architects

Photo courtesy of Morris Adjmi Architects
Our 1100 Ludlow building in downtown Philadelphia includes a glass and precast facade and factory-style windows that revitalized the existing building with plenty of additional light and air.
And, 408 Greenwich in NYC has a facade of terracotta arches created by precast panels that make the mixed-use building a modern interpretation of the traditional masonry buildings found throughout the Tribeca North Historic District.
Q: How have you seen precast concrete evolve? How do you see it continuing to impact your work?
It has gone from a mostly utilitarian material into varied, higher design. We will continue to push the limits of plasticity.

The 1100 Ludlow building in downtown Philadelphia includes a glass and precast facade and factory-style windows. Photo courtesy of Morris Adjmi Architects
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