Phase two of the Gravity Project has further revitalized Columbus’s Franklinton neighborhood, reinforcing its reputation as an innovative, art-infused urban development. At its core stands a 239,500 SF pre-topped precast parking garage, the third successful collaboration between the developer and Coreslab Structures (Indianapolis), Inc.
Beyond functionality, the garage makes a bold artistic statement with a large-scale mural on its south facade, featuring contributions from over 25 artists. This creative touch reflects Kaufman Development’s vision of blending infrastructure with culture, making the structure not just a parking facility but a dynamic piece of urban art.
The project showcases the versatility and efficiency of precast concrete in modern construction. The parking structure, built with standard gray precast components, was rapidly assembled using pre-topped double tees for optimal durability and cost-effectiveness. Meanwhile, the adjacent mixed-use tower features 242 architecturally refined precast balconies, fabricated by Precast Specialties and seamlessly integrated into engineered slots.
The Gravity 2.0 Parking Garage features a 239,500 SF pre-topped precast concrete structure with standard gray finishes, delivering efficient parking solutions with accelerated construction. The development includes 242 architecturally finished precast balconies with charcoal gray acid-etched surfaces, seamlessly integrated into the adjacent mixed-use tower. A standout feature is the large-scale artistic mural adorning the south facade, created by over 25 artists. This project marks the third successful collaboration between the developer and Coreslab, showcasing precast concrete’s ability to combine structural performance, speed of construction, and artistic integration in urban redevelopment projects.
Precast Benefits
The Gravity 2.0 Parking Garage demonstrates precast concrete’s unmatched advantages for urban developments. The pre-topped double tee system enabled rapid construction of the 239,500 SF parking structure, significantly reducing on-site labor and project timelines compared to cast-in-place methods. Precast’s controlled manufacturing environment ensured consistent quality across all components while minimizing weather-related delays.
The system’s inherent durability provides long-term structural performance with minimal maintenance – critical for high-use parking facilities. Beyond functionality, precast delivered exceptional design flexibility for this landmark project. The 242 acid-etched balconies showcase precast’s ability to achieve sophisticated architectural finishes that would be cost-prohibitive with traditional construction.
The material’s versatility also accommodated the building’s large-scale mural integration, proving precast can seamlessly blend art and infrastructure. This project highlights how precast concrete solves complex urban challenges by combining structural efficiency, aesthetic potential, and cost-effectiveness in a single building system.
Fishers Event Center – Fishers, IN
About Coreslab
Coreslab Structures is a leading global manufacturer and distributor of precast concrete products. Since 1975, we have been a premier producer of precast/prestressed concrete products, supplying top–of–the–line structural, architectural, and hollow core solutions to clients across Canada and the United States.
Our extensive network of precast/prestressed concrete facilities, combined with our commitment to excellence and technical expertise, has helped us become a leader in construction innovation and sustainable practices.
