Luxury at the Linden
The project: The Linden
Builder: Bartlett Cocke General Contractors
Architect: Rhode Partners
Tile installation: Precision Flooring
Date: 2023
Location: Austin, TX
High-end requires high quality
The Linden stands as a 28-story contemporary condominium tower, presenting a fresh approach to sophisticated living by seamlessly blending world-class luxury with the artistic spirit of Austin. The complex boasts 117 luxury residences, including 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom units, as well as two 2-story penthouses. High-end condominiums require quality materials that can be customized to the design specifications of each unit. As such, Schluter-Systems products were trusted and installed in the showers of each unit of The Linden tower.
Shared vision
As the construction of commercial properties involves so many moving pieces, it is important to ensure that all involved parties are on board and share the same vision. During the specification stage, other waterproofing suppliers were specified for the project, however the proposed suppliers did not offer a full-service solution. Waterproofing measures were specified by the architects, and drains were proposed by the plumbers. As mixed shower systems involve different suppliers, this can complicate matters should a leak or failure occur. Issues such as compatibility problems, difficulties in assigning responsibility, and challenges in coordinating warranty and support services may arise. The lack of standardization and potential communication gaps between suppliers can further complicate the identification and resolution of problems. While mixed systems can be successful with careful planning and installation, the preference for single-supplier or trusted-brand solutions is often based on the desire for greater compatibility, seamless integration, and simplified support processes.
Products used
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Trust, test, tailor
Bartlett Cocke General Contractors had been working with Schluter products for approximately five years and they were passionate about working with a single-source supplier for all showers at The Linden. Their meeting with Schluter was a crucial milestone in shaping a solutions-oriented strategy for The Linden project and bringing this solution to ownership. Despite the initial considerations of cost associated with switching suppliers, ownership was thoroughly impressed by Schluter-Systems' innovative single system approach and the comprehensive warranty provided. Both waterproofing and drains are part of the Schluter-Shower-System an integrated family of products that are designed to work together to form a fully bonded, watertight assembly for tiled showers. Schluter's emphasis on warranty coverage underscored their dedication to ensuring long-term reliability and performance. This commitment aligned seamlessly with ownership's focus on quality assurance.
During interactions with Schluter representatives, it became evident that the company's commitment extended beyond providing products. Schluter Architectural & Design Manager, Josie Janssen was greatly involved in the project, providing on-site support, addressing inquiries, and offering solutions for diverse unique shower configurations, such as L-shaped showers and effective waterproofing around shower windows.
As The Linden is comprised of custom apartment units of varying sizes, a one-size-fits-all approach to shower design was not applicable. Overall, 16 sizes of the KERDI-LINE linear drain were provided to fit the specifications of each shower. The KERDI-DRAIN point drain was installed in units that could not accommodate the linear drain.
To ensure seamless integration, comprehensive flood tests involving the City of Austin, the plumbers, and Precision Flooring were conducted on all showers. Project Executive, Joshua Eckert from Bartlett Cocke General Contractors recounted that when one shower did not pass the initial flood test and the reason could not be determined, Schluter was quick to act and provide a new drain body which resolved the issue. Another shower failed a flood test because damage was inflicted on a KERDI-SHOWER-LT/-LTS tray by another trade. Schluter offered precise instructions on patching the waterproofing to maintain compliance with the warranty.
Vision to tile
The collaboration between Rhode Partners, Bartlett Cocke, Precision Flooring and Schluter ensured that expectations were not only met but exceeded. Schluter’s comprehensive warranty, clear communication channels, and a shared responsibility among stakeholders played a crucial role in turning expectations into a successful reality and bringing the architect’s vision to life.