Utopia
Grand Rapids, MI
©Ryan Velting
Architect: Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects
Artist: Jaume Plensa
Client: Frederick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Completion: 2020
Category: Special Projects
Project Type: Stone Engineering
Stone Type:
+Blanc Absolut Marble
Video
Press
The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids unveils a new welcome center–Designed by Todd William Billie Tsien Architects. It features the unique, diverse and meditative ethnic faces of different women named—Marianna, Julia, Laura, and Wilsis—representing women from around the world, presented in Spanish sculptor Jaume Plensa’s signature style, such that no single piece is identical to the next. Each of the four, expansive floor-to-ceiling walls are 20 x 90 ft and clad as sculptural reliefs in Blanc Absolut Marble, with some of the large pieces weighing over 3.5 tonnes.
PICCO’s work from the earliest project phases required material sourcing support, testing, mock-up reviews, anchoring system design and engineering, installation guidance, and comprehensive shop drawings with tickets.The project was detailed using steel frames, unistruts, a disc connection and heavy loadbearing steel supports.
It was an honour to collaborate alongside a great team!