Precision in Performance: CLADLOK Signature Series Tapered Panels Transform Swedish Medical Center Tower

In the ever-evolving world of healthcare design, performance must match precision—and nowhere is that more evident than in the Swedish Medical Center Tower Expansion in Englewood, Colorado. CEI Materials was proud to supply our CLADLOK™ Signature Series Tapered Panel System—an ideal solution for the project's complex design, demanding schedule, and high-performance requirements.

Originally planned as a four-story horizontal addition, the project quickly evolved into a six-story vertical expansion. The new patient tower was designed to unify the campus image and create a new entrance to the hospital that stood out, having intuitive wayfinding components while adhering to the campus’ evolving image.

With tight construction timelines and evolving building codes, speed, coordination, and flexible solutions became paramount. Working alongside HKS Architects, JE Dunn Construction, and fabricator/installer Baker Triangle, CEI Materials delivered prefabricated CLADLOK panels in Anodic Clear Mica as well as Alucobond MCM panels in MZG Gray & West Pewter Mica using our R4000 system to blend seamlessly with the design vision while supporting the project's aggressive build schedule.

“Working with CEI Materials and utilizing CLADLOK panels allowed us to achieve a seamless blend of aesthetics and functionality,” said Ruben Resendez, architect of record at HKS. “Their innovative systems ensured precision, durability, and a sleek modern façade that truly elevates the facility's design.”

CLADLOK Signature Series Tapered Panels were chosen due to their modularity and to increase the articulation of the main façade with different shading/patterns to create a framed element as well as its ability to create depth, movement, and visual variation across the building’s envelope. With no need for external clips or extrusions, CLADLOK’s tapered format maintains the integrity of the weather barrier while offering nearly limitless angles and profiles. Resendez also noted “the Cladlok system allowed us to maintain a rainscreen system which integrated well with the MCM. The integration of the two systems allowed for continuous insulation and maintained a good edge at material transitions.”

CLADLOK provided:

• Rain Screen Compatibility: The CLADLOK panels easily integrated into the unitized curtain wall system while preserving continuous insulation and pressure-equalized performance.
• Installation Efficiency: Off-site prefabrication meant fewer field modifications and less disruption to the active hospital campus.
• Visual Impact: The tapering undulating panel geometry cast shifting shadows across the façade throughout the day, adding dimension and elegance to a utilitarian expansion.
• Custom Engineering: The CEI team worked with engineers to develop custom attachment solutions specific to the project’s geometry.

With the panels being fabricated by both Baker Triangle in Texas and at CEI Materials in Michigan, installation precision at the job site was key. “The panels arrived on-site as fully prefabricated assemblies, ready for integration,” said Sam Balunda of Baker Triangle. “That simplicity and precision were critical to keeping this fast-paced project on track.”

©Frank Ooms

Spanning nearly 175,000 square feet, the tower expansion houses 90 patient rooms, future OR and cath lab space, sterile processing facilities, and a new mechanical floor—all delivered while the existing hospital remained fully operational.

As one of the only healthcare expansions of this scale in the region, Swedish Medical Center's new tower is designed not only for today’s patient needs but for decades of evolving care. Prefabrication, reduced waste, and the use of long-lasting MCM materials contributed to a build that’s as sustainable as it is striking.

At CEI Materials, we believe every building tells a story—from its form to its function. With CLADLOK™ Tapered Panels, that story becomes dimensional, high-performance, and distinctly modern. The Swedish Medical Center Tower is a testament to that philosophy, and we’re proud to have been part of the solution.

Main Image Photography ©Frank Ooms

For more on CLADLOK’s capabilities, visit our CLADLOK Series overview.