University of Maryland, Eastern Shore

The project represents one of Metalwërks®’ crowning achievements in problem solving. Despite a challenging design, difficult site logistics, and many unconventional architectural features, it showcases Metalwërks’ exceptional manufacturing quality.

The project utilizes Omniplate™ 1500 panels in .125 aluminum with a Tiger Drylac Series, polyester powder coating 2.5-3mils thick for superior resistance to salt spray and abrasion in the marine environment. The supporting elements under the dome were designed, manufactured, and installed by Metalwërks personnel from the structural steel out. Metalwërks even provided the survey necessary to coordinate its work with the adjacent trades. The underlayment system included a custom curved guttering system for each panel to drain into in the event of a sealant failure, solid plywood sheathing, and watershield membrane and curved structural supports to carry loads back to the main structure. The entire roof system drains into a custom stainless steel gutter. The dome construction was achieved using a custom radiused ladder designed on a curved track system to allow access at any point on the working surface. Below the main dome is the curved cupola with radius cornice with perforated soffit vents, column covers with articulated capitals, and curved wall cladding. A similar 24′ dome was constructed at the East pavilion. The main rotunda wall surface included a 2 story  53′ radius using curved Omniplate 1500 and vertical Georgian style column covers. The  metal facades provide the perfect complement to the conventional brick, limestone, and precast construction of the adjacent school buildings.