This contemplative columbarium was designed to be a sacred, elegant, and enduring place for remembrance. Working from a simple conceptual sketch, Lucas Concrete delivered a total-precast solution consisting of 25 wall panels and 29 cap units—approximately 384 cubic feet of architectural concrete—all installed in just three working days without the use of on-site masonry.

Every element was carefully crafted to serve both aesthetic and structural purposes. The limestone-toned precast complements granite veneer niche fronts and future bronze nameplates, while plinth blocks and coping pieces define a formal, symmetrical composition that reinforces the structure’s timeless character and visual serenity.

A key innovation was the coping system, engineered to span across niche openings and bear load without transferring stress to the granite fronts—allowing for both architectural clarity and structural efficiency. The project’s greatest complexity came not from volume, but from the precision and craftsmanship required to execute large, elegant pieces in small quantities, on a fast-tracked schedule.

The final result is a peaceful and dignified addition to the site—quietly distinct from the church’s existing buildings but perfectly integrated into its landscape. It stands as a refined example of how architectural precast can shape emotionally resonant spaces while streamlining construction in sensitive settings.

Lucas Concrete was initially brought in to consult on a critical design issue affecting the central stair climb at the Wilbur O. and Anne Powers College of Business: the head clearance in a middle section of the stairs was too low. Working closely with the project team, Lucas helped rework the geometry to resolve the head-height conflict—unlocking the path to a successful and compliant stair design.

However, the scope quickly expanded. Much of the surrounding earth had already been removed during the foundation work for the main structure, creating constructability issues for the hardscape and retaining wall system originally planned as cast-in-place. Recognizing the risks to schedule and sequencing, Lucas Concrete proposed a reimagined solution: replace the complex foundation wall and in-situ formwork with precast retaining walls and strip footings.

This move eliminated the need for deep foundation walls, simplified site access, and allowed the contractor to focus resources on the main structure. Meanwhile, the stair system and retaining components were fabricated off-site—improving quality control and speeding up overall installation.

Further complications such as water infiltration, retainage issues, and erosion control added to the complexity, making the precast solution even more valuable. In the end, not only was the design intent preserved, but the contractor was also able to regain control of the construction schedule—delivering a successful project that reflects the best of engineering innovation and architectural integration.