Elizabeth River Project | Norfolk, VA
AS&D Product Scope:
612 LF of Railing
Railing System / Infill:
TR200 Flat Top Railing with 1/8" Cable Infill
Location:
Norfolk, VA
Construction Type:
Mixed-Use
Elizabeth River Project - Ryan Resilience Labs
The Ryan Resilience Lab serves as a flagship for the Elizabeth River Project in Norfolk, Virginia. It exemplifies cutting-edge resilience and sustainability practices. Located in the North Colley neighborhood, it is the centerpiece of a new EcoDistrict dedicated to floodplain restoration, climate adaptation, and sustainable development.
Aluminum Guard Rails
AS&D supplied 612 linear feet of TR200 aluminum railings for the exterior spaces of the Ryan Resilience Lab, contributing to its durability and aesthetic appeal. The TR200 system integrates seamlessly with the wooden decking and landscape design, offering both safety and transparency while maintaining an open, airy feel. These railings provide a sturdy boundary around outdoor areas while offering panoramic views of the surrounding Knitting Mill Creek and the living shoreline.
Aluminum’s Sustainable Advantages
Sustainability is a core value of the Ryan Resilience Lab, and AS&D’s contribution aligns with the lab’s eco-friendly mission. The use of aluminum railings supports this commitment due to their long lifespan, minimal maintenance, and 100% recyclability. The powder-coated finish of the railings resists corrosion, ensuring they withstand the rigors of a coastal environment while maintaining their appearance for many years. This complements the low-maintenance ethos of the lab's overall design.
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The lightweight yet strong construction of aluminum is ideal for projects like the Ryan Resilience Lab, where materials must perform under challenging environmental conditions while also adhering to strict sustainability standards. AS&D’s railings contribute to reducing the overall carbon footprint of the project by offering a low-maintenance and recyclable solution that fits seamlessly into the eco-conscious design.
Seamless Integration with Sustainable Design
In addition to its functional and aesthetic benefits, AS&D’s railings contribute to the climate resilience of the building by adding a non-intrusive boundary to outdoor spaces, including terraces and walkways. The railings allow for an unobstructed view of the landscape and nearby waterways, helping the project align with the goal of sustainable urban living. As part of a comprehensive flood resilience strategy, these railings provide safety while maintaining visual continuity with the surroundings, which include rain gardens and green roofs.
AS&D’s TR200 railing system was specifically designed for this project to blend into the architectural vision of the Ryan Lab. The sleek, minimalist lines of the railings harmonize with the lab’s modern, industrial look, while offering privacy and security to residents and visitors in the open spaces, ensuring safety in a functional yet visually striking way.
