A new unit conceived by Bal Seal Engineering and Colorado architects CSNA has earned an award for design superiority from the American Institute of Architects Colorado South Chapter (AIA Colorado South) only about one to two months before the commencement of actual construction and just within two months after the groundbreaking commemoration.
In a news broadcast, AIA Colorado South identified Bal Seal as the Citation Award winner under the “un-built architecture” classification. The manufacturing unit spread over 155,000 sq. ft. is situated at 1350 Belpratt View in Colorado Springs.
As per a senior official at AIA Colorado, Bal Seal’s design was chosen from a total of 12 entries and is one of only five awards granted under any classification this year. She added that the un-built classification is sometimes skipped but this venture drew the judges this year.
The main architect of Bal Seal unit, Gregory Friesen, feels that the award is wonderful because it takes into account designs independent of construction. He compares it to how the German philosopher Geothe compared architecture to “frozen music”. Friesen added that the analogy perfectly explains why the award works for un-built buildings. It acknowledges that the completed project may not always convey the original design.
Bal Seal is a global pioneer in producing custom-designed conducting, sealing, connecting and EMI shielding parts for medical, automotive and critical defence equipment. The organization planned to construct an “expansion unit” at Colorado Springs. On completion, the $45 million manufacturing unit will accommodate highly technical manufacturing paraphernalia that will be used for making connector assemblages, Bal Seal Canted Oil Springs and Bal Seal Spring-energized Seals. The venture is anticipated to generate 200 jobs.
Source: http://www.balseal.com/