Madera Cyber Innovation Center at the Colorado Springs United States Air Force Academy
The project was approached with constant collaboration between various stakeholders, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Air Force Academy staff and faculty, and the Air Force Academy Foundation. The process of bringing the original concept design to a complete construction document set spanned over 18 months. However, the design continued to evolve throughout the project to ensure that the needs and vision of the Air Force Academy and the stakeholders were met.
Unique Features and Finishes
The facility boasts many unique features, including a complex structural steel frame and a monumental cast-in-place multi-story spiral staircase. The almost all-glass exterior façade consists of several different glazing systems that were designed to reflect the history and look of the adjacent cadet area buildings. At the same time, they provide efficient energy performance and a modern aesthetic. Several historic finishes used in other parts of the campus were included in the project. These finishes include custom Italian glass mosaic tile, which was assembled piece-by-piece locally in Colorado Springs, Terrazzo concrete plaza paving, and granite paneling from the same quarry that has been manufacturing stone for the Academy for decades.
Construction Details
Situated in the historic cadet area, the design and construction of the Madera Cyber Innovation Center have been fully coordinated with the State Historic Preservation Office to ensure compliance and respect for the surrounding historical context.
The facility features a striking custom structural glass wall system, designed to enhance natural light while providing an aesthetic appeal. The dimensions of the glass panels measure 7 feet wide and 13 feet tall, with each panel weighing approximately 1,200 pounds. This impressive glasswork not only serves as a focal point of the design but also contributes to the building’s modern functionality.
The construction integrates seamlessly with the existing infrastructure, including a 30-year-old adjacent parking garage, various tunnels, and active utility systems within the cadet area.
Construction craftsmanship includes an extensive communication and technology infrastructure, with 29 miles of cabling integrated throughout. Additionally, the facility meets the rigorous UFC 4-023-03 standards for progressive collapse resistance, ensuring a secure environment for all students and staff.
Architectural Elements
The facility, designed by architecture firm Clark Nexsen, also boasts a unique structural glass wall system and a free-floating, self-supporting curvilinear staircase crafted with 3 ½ months of precise work on cast-in-place concrete.
Throughout the project, Bryan Construction ensured that the custom finishes blended seamlessly with the historical aesthetics of the cadet area, employing Italian glass tile, custom granite and terrazzo. The interior design maximizes functionality through the use of raised access flooring, intelligent lighting and advanced environmental control systems.
