Location, History, and Cultural Significance of the Georgia State Capitol
The Georgia State Capitol is a cherished landmark in Atlanta, GA, representing both historical and architectural significance since its construction in 1889. Modeled after the United States Capitol, the building exemplifies neo-classical design, symbolizing the state’s rich heritage and its role in governance. The building’s architectural elegance makes it a focal point of civic pride and a testament to timeless craftsmanship.
To complement the Capitol’s iconic design, the surrounding gate and fence were carefully crafted to align with the historical aesthetic while meeting modern security needs. This project combined traditional design principles with contemporary materials to ensure a seamless blend of beauty and functionality. The result is a security border that enhances safety while preserving the architectural grandeur of the Capitol, safeguarding its legacy for generations to come.
The Need for a Custom Security Solution at the Georgia State Capitol
In 2020, civil unrest and related protests required local law enforcement and the National Guard to safeguard the Georgia State Capitol and nearby buildings. Although a relatively small fence surrounded the complex, it was insufficient to provide the level of security necessary to meet modern demands. Although the Capitol Police Division continues providing protection, allocating a large volume of manpower to protect the complex is not a sustainable permanent solution.
The scenario highlighted the critical need to harden the complex’s perimeter security. As with other state and federal buildings, the challenge of securing the perimeter became a balancing act between security and aesthetics. Fortunately, the team at TYMETAL Corp was uniquely prepared with designs and solutions that could preserve the appeal of the entire complex.
The project began in August 2020 and was completed in the Fall of 2021. Meticulous planning ensured the complex would remain accessible and inviting to visitors, respecting its historic architecture while offering a first line of defense against emergency breaches.
TYMETAL’s Custom Gate and Fence Design for the Georgia State Capitol
Custom Design Features and Aesthetic Integration
To design custom gates and fence panels for the Georgia State Capitol, TYMETAL teamed up with Houser Walker Architecture. The 2015 AIA Atlanta Silver medal winner is passionate about using design to shape community spaces, and the boutique firm approached TYMETAL to partner in the project.
Planning and execution required a robust set of custom elements and meticulous site planning to ensure the end result would deliver classic elegance. Additionally, the finished project had to provide the robust security necessary to face a myriad of potential modern perils.
Ensuring the design complemented the neo-classical architecture of the Capitol while gaining precise measurements and an understanding of the topography required implementing 3D scanning services. The data allowed the project team to acquire a thorough, accurate survey of the site topography that included vertical and horizontal curves of the site, ensuring that the fence lines would seamlessly integrate with the existing features on the grounds. The finished product provides high security to keep pace with the modern threat landscape while offering aesthetic appeal that complements the complex’s rich history.
Custom Gate and Fence Features
The detailed production process enabled the TYMETAL team to undertake the intricate process from 1,000 miles away in Upstate New York. Using 3D scan site surveys and laser-cut templates, the team was able to ensure precise alignment with the curvature of the newly engineered perimeter foundation and the site’s natural contours. The finished plan called for a robust mixture of gates and fencing panels to replace the original fence and overcome its security shortfalls.
To accomplish the project, TYMETAL fabricated the following:
- 90 straight and curved base fence panels
- 4 cantilever sliding gates
- 3 heavy-duty pedestrian gates, each with custom lock bars
- 2 single-opening ADA-compliant pedestrian electronic access doors with ADA-labeled access panels, which conceal the hardware and wiring
- 5 CNC-machined Georgia State Seal emblems
- 8 lighted columns for the sliding gates
The TYMETAL Approach to Custom Gate Fabrication and Installation
Preparation, Design, and Material Sourcing
TYMETAL takes a comprehensive approach to every project. Our in-house team of talented designers worked with Houser Walker Architecture to understand the unique requirements of the site. The process involved using state-of-the-art technological solutions to map the terrain and ensure each component would provide a precise, perfect fit.
Moreover, the design required thoughtful additional touches to ensure it melded seamlessly with the existing curves of the landscape. From material sourcing and selection to design and execution, the team made every effort to join form and function throughout the process.
Seamless Gate and Fence Installation
TYMETAL handled the fabrication of all materials and worked with Tusco, Inc., throughout the installation process during the Fall of 2021. As perimeter security contractors with a record of providing services to governmental properties, military bases, industrial complexes, and more, Tusco was able to provide the additional expertise necessary. Throughout the installation portion of the project, contractors navigated the coordination of the new security solutions with the existing infrastructure, ensuring a perfect fit.
Once Tusco completed the installation, a local contractor came to put the finishing touches on the gates and fence equipment using an Electro-Static paint process. Whereas traditional paint finishes lack durability and can be time-consuming and costly, Electro-Static painting offers an efficient alternative. It involves a specialized spray nozzle that charges the paint particles with positive electrons. Because all of the particles are positively charged, they repel each other and create a fine mist. That mist evenly coats metal surfaces, which have a negative charge, ensuring the positively charged paint particles cling to them.
The end result was an even, durable paint finish and a beautiful, yet understated decorative fence line. Despite its aesthetic appeal, the attractive fence and gates provide a hardened perimeter that is meticulously designed to protect the Capitol Complex from modern threats.
Partner with TYMETAL for Your Next Industrial Gate or Security Project
TYMETAL has been an industry leader since its founding in 1985. Renowned for its high-quality, custom U.S.-manufactured solutions, TYMETAL offers a broad range of standard options and extensive custom options. TYMETAL has provided high-performance perimeter security solutions for a variety of use cases across industries such as government, public service, transportation, and more.
The TYMETAL team has provided expertise in combining security with pleasing aesthetics while meeting stringent site requirements. All TYMETAL products are engineered to withstand even the harshest operating environments, with lasting durability and performance, along with exceptional customer service. Contact us today to learn about tailored solutions with the aesthetics you want and the security level you need to withstand the modern threat landscape.
