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To blend with the fabric of the historic neighborhood; deliver optimized daylighting, transparency and views; and tap thermal efficiencies, Burns & McDonnell put a lot of thought into the glass selection for the 14-story Reverb Alton Collection multi-unit apartment building in Kansas City, which officially opened to residents in August 2020.

“Because glazing plays such a significant role in the resident experience, and is central to the architectural expression, selecting the right glass was essential,” explained Justin Rogers, associate design architect, Burns & McDonnell, Kansas City.

After considering assorted options, the team selected Solarban^® 70 Optiblue^® glass from Vitro Architectural Glass to meet the project’s aesthetic and performance goals. The glazing delivers a Visible Light Transmittance (VLT) of 46% and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of 0.23, offering a desired balance of daylighting, thermal performance and occupant comfort.

“Solarban^® glass provided the performance we were looking for while maintaining a clean, neutral appearance that complemented the building's charcoal and platinum exterior materials. The subtle blue-gray tint of Optiblue^® glass reinforced the project's contemporary aesthetic without appearing overly reflective,” said Rogers.

Together with the Solarban^® 70 Optiblue^® glass, the façade is comprised of dark aluminum framing, insulated metal panels, exposed concrete and prefinished metal trim. The materials lend a modern aesthetic while reinforcing the neighborhood’s industrial heritage. The glass selection also helped the new building blend with the neighborhood fabric characterized by historic brick warehouses, exposed concrete structures and industrial materials.

While the team specified a window wall system, its floor-to-ceiling glass gives the appearance of a contemporary curtain wall showcasing panoramic views of downtown Kansas City. In addition, exposed concrete floors, minimal partitions and steel room dividers help make the glazing units feel larger and more connected to the city. 

“Reflective platinum metal panels, stepped massing and larger window groupings create a dynamic expression that changes throughout the day as sunlight moves across the façade. As the building steps outward, residents benefit from larger living spaces, deeper views and expanded outdoor connections,” related Rogers.

With input from the project team, the developer Copaken Brooks chose the name Reverb based on the musical concept of sound reverberating throughout and beyond a space. Situated in the Crossroads Art District, abounding with exhibitions, music and restaurants, there’s a vibe of sharing creative experiences and recommendations. Like reverberation, one person recommends a gallery, concert or food spot and that energy ripples through the community.

“Architecturally, the concept is reflected in the building itself,” said Rogers. “The quieter east façade establishes the primary rhythm, while the more expressive west façade builds upon that language through stepping, reflection and movement. Together, they create a design that echoes the creative energy of the Crossroads.”

To focus on the optimized glazing sizes and placement, the team utilized an iterative process that balanced architectural design, unit layouts, structural coordination, views, energy performance, constructability and budget.

“A digital model helped us evaluate the building's overall composition, façade rhythm and relationship between the east and west elevations before the final window modules were refined through construction documents and shop drawings,” explained Rogers.

The 197,000-square-foot building houses 132 apartments and features top floor amenity spaces with a bar lounge and variety of rooms for socializing, work meetings and views. On the street level, there’s space for food truck parking and a 40-foot harvest table where residents and visitors can get together.

For more information about Solarban^® 70 Optiblue^® glass, and for Vitro Architectural Glass’ full portfolio of glass solutions, visit or call 1-855-VTRO-GLS (887-6457).

Project Credits:

• Developer: Copaken Brooks
• Architect: Burns & McDonnell
• ����ר�� Fabricator: Insulite Glass Co., Inc. (Vitro Certified^® Fabricator)
• Photography: Tom Kessler