Preplanning Turns Complex Geometry into Coordinated, Build-Ready Solutions

Overview

Radius Track collaborated with Century Drywall, architect of record Sasaki, engineer of record Thornton Tomasetti, and general contractor Suffolk Construction to define, develop, fabricate, and deliver engineered sub-framing solutions for doubly curved exterior canopies:

• Interior dome structure, panelized eyebrow canopies, and façade framing
• Framing for planter assemblies and curved penthouse features
• Stick and panelized assemblies coordinated to avoid conflicts with adjacent trades

Problem & Approach

Radius Track developed location-specific kit of Parts solutions for canopy structure and domed vaulted ceiling systems. The canopy structure required governing rules to guide installation as each truss had unique conditions and coordination needs.

The domed ceiling demanded multitrade integration synchronizing steel fabricators, wood-cladding vendors, curtain-wall installers, and interior trades. Complex intersections at fascia and soffits demanded near-millimeter precision for hangers and clip locations. Unexpected compound hat channels added mid-project complexity.

Rigorous coordination with mechanical and structural models was essential, especially at the 17th-floor mechanical level. Late design changes from anchor tenant programs added mechanical requirements. The aggressive schedule required defining precise clip hanger locations two months early to avoid clashes.

“Our role was to act as a bridge between the architect’s 3-D design intent and the panel manufacturer’s 2-D workflow. By reconciling those two worlds and giving Century precise clip locations, we eliminated guesswork in the field. The dome ceiling took shape exactly as Sasaki envisioned—and it went up without costly delays.” – Khanh Nguyen, a lead designer, Radius Track

‍Solution & Results

By eliminating redundant cladding layers and simplifying canopy assemblies, the team delivered cost and time savings while minimizing RFIs and avoiding change orders. Stud-by-stud coordination eliminated the need for an entire rail system layer, allowing clips to mount directly to structure.

Key technical achievements included:

• Pre-planning enabled clip and hanger installation prior to other trade activities, minimizing overlapping work
• Translated 2D vendor and material requirements into buildable 3D geometry coordinated with multiple trades
• Flattened and re-rolled compound surfaces into manufacturable geometry for wood subcontractor
• Maintained geometric continuity between wood, steel, and façade systems with all data tied to digital model
• Close cooperation with Century Drywall and Island Contracting kept just-in-time schedules on track

Suffolk Construction credited Radius Track for making a potentially difficult scope effortless to coordinate. The proactive approach demonstrated constructability across domes, canopies, façades, and penthouse features without compromising design intent.

Related Work

Radius Track has completed several large scale projects with Century Drywall and Suffolk Construction.

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Team

Architect: Sasaki

Structural Engineer: Thornton Tomasetti

General Contractor: Suffolk Construction

Framing Contractor: Century Drywall

Curtain Wall / Façade: Island Contracting

Design Assist / Curved Framing: Radius Track Corporation

CFS Engineer: McClure

Awards

In summary, 10 World Trade has received prestigious architectural design accolades, notably being a WAN Awards finalist, and recognition for exceptional construction management. Its acclaim centers strongly on innovative design, sustainability, and community engagement.

Major Awards and Recognitions

• SITES Gold Pre-Certification: 10 World Trade is Boston’s first project to receive SITES Gold pre-certification, a prestigious acknowledgment for sustainable land design and development.
• LEED Gold (anticipated): The project is slated to achieve LEED Gold certification for its exceptional energy efficiency and green building practices.
• WELL Gold (anticipated): Recognized for prioritizing human health and wellness through design.
• WiredScore Platinum: The building is among the first on the East Coast to receive Platinum certification for its advanced digital connectivity.
• SmartScore Platinum: 10 World Trade is the first on the East Coast to earn Platinum in SmartScore, denoting a high standard for smart building technology integration.
• Design Recognition by The Plan Awards: The architecture by Sasaki is noted for its innovation in urban mixed-use programming, resilience, and public engagement.
• WAN Awards Finalist: The project was named a finalist for the World Architecture News (WAN) Awards, highlighting its public-realm-centered approach.

These certifications and award nominations position 10 World Trade as a benchmark for sustainable and technologically advanced development within Boston and beyond.

Additional Information

Project presented at the 2025 AIA Convention.

Featured in The Plan, 2024

Article in Walls and Ceilings, 2025