The Break Water Condominiums used 12,000cy of concrete to construct 23 total levels (2 below ground parking, 21 stories above ground) that contains 101 condominiums.  The project began in December 2007 and was completed in December 2008 with a very aggressive schedule.

The primary use of the slag was for increase in overall strength, durability, and aesthetics. All concrete delivered contained 565 lb/cy of total cementitious material with 20% of that being slag cement, thus making the structure lighter in color which is not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally friendly.

The structure emphasis the acoustic separation and energy efficiency separating each unit with 12” thick concrete walls.  In addition to this the parking areas are heated and Break Water confidently promotes that $500/year or less will be spent in heating energy cost per unit, all of which can be contributed to the thermal mass concrete provides.

All of the concrete was required to meet 4000psi at 28 days.  The requirement of 4000psi+ was being reached at 7 days which contributed to the project getting completed with the very aggressive schedule.

Aside from being innovative from an exterior and interior aesthetic point of view the structure has a very small foot print while providing a number of living spaces adjacent to the Lake Michigan waterfront.