Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino, Altoona, Iowa
Retrofit Team
Wall-panel Installer: Waldinger Corp., Des Moines, Iowa
Wall-panel Supplier: SGH Inc., Des Moines
Architect: Shive-Hattery Architecture, West Des Moines, Iowa
General Contractor: The Weitz Co., Des Moines
Materials
A new contemporary look was achieved with an interior installation of Shadow Series Panels, which bring dimension to buildings on the inside and outside because each panel face can be extended to varying depths based on the design and material choice of the project. This customization offers design flexibility and architectural creativity for any structure.
Although the panels have varying depths, the integrity of the patented rainscreen system is still sound. The substrate is located in the same plane, and the patented water-management system of the Dri-Design panels stays intact.
About 1,120 square feet of 0.080-inch aluminum panels with a Weathered Zinc finish create an architectural display in the lobby near the elevators. The illusion that Shadow Series creates can be random or regimented, depending on the intent of the designer.
Wall-panel Manufacturer: Dri-Design
The Retrofit
The racetrack and casino opened in 1995 to large crowds and excited gamblers. This excitement, however, did not last. With dwindling customers and revenue, the gaming commission approved a large multi-phased renovation in an effort to enhance the gaming experience and attract business.
The 50,000-square-foot casino area was renovated for $18.5 million. Shive-Hattery Architecture created a sense of kinetic motion within the gaming area with swooshing ceilings and sweeping columns.
An enhanced gaming floor, a new high-stakes area, and improved lighting and air quality add to the entertainment of those who want to pass their time—and maybe some money—at Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino.
Completed in March 2014, the installation of the aluminum wall panels in the lobby turned what once were wallpapered walls into eye-catching features.
PHOTOS: Mark Kempf, St. Louis