As the South Carolina State Ports Authority (SCSPA), owner and operator of terminals at the Port of Charleston and Port of Georgetown, continues to thrive as one of the top three fastest growing ports in the country, Choate Construction and LS3P Asssociates partner to construct a state-of-the-art headquarters office. The 84,000-SF building more than doubles the State Ports Authority’s previous office, relocating cross-harbor from downtown Charleston to Mt. Pleasant.

Smart Spaces

The conventional steel-frame structure is supported by 14-inch precast concrete piles with a 10-inch structured slab and is anchored with a first-floor base of manufactured stone veneer.

Bridges, open meeting areas, adjacent meeting rooms, and a monumental stair within the “Smart” building encourage interaction and collaboration between SCSPA departments.

The fourth floor, home to the CEO’s office, is set slightly back creating a penthouse offering full operational views.

Symbolism Abounds

A dynamic jewel feature and a hub of activity for the entire building, a striking glass atrium welcomes stakeholders and customers alike into the main entrance. The glass curtainwall extends to the roof allowing for ample natural light, while a tectonic column connects the atrium to the accent wall completing the entrance frame. The unique atrium terrazzo floor pattern depicts a geographical map of the Charleston peninsula and waterways.