Simon Hall is the center of science and research efforts at Indiana University. The 140,000-sq-ft, seven-story research building has a 23,000-sq-ft underground laboratory which connects to surrounding buildings. The Hall is clad in more than 5000 smooth, buff cut limestone pieces, including window heads, sills and jambs, building quoins, and accent stones. It is surrounded by almost 10,000 sq ft of rock veneer walls.
Due to the ornate characteristics of the limestone and difficult installation, multiple configurations of stainless steel anchors were used to suspend each piece of stone. Special care was taken during unloading, handling, and installation to avoid damage, since the individual limestone pieces could not have been removed without destroying them and the surrounding facade.
To personalize the structure and promote its role on campus, a sculptor designed clay molds of research organisms – including a fruit fly, mouse, mushrooms, and paramecium – which were carved by the Indiana Limestone Co. and installed by F.A. Wilhelm's masons.
[WEB EXTRA] For more details and photos, visit www.masonryconstruction.com.
Project Participants
Owner: Indiana University, Bloomington, Ind.
General Contractor/Masonry Contractor: F.A. Wilhelm Construction Co., Inc., Indianapolis, Ind.
Architect: Flad & Associates, Madison, Wis.
Masonry Suppliers: Indiana Limestone Co., Bedford, Ind.; Bybee Stone Co., Ellettsville, Ind.
