At Gage Brothers, we love seeing how our work transforms from raw materials into something that enhances communities and inspires creativity. The Borland Center for Music and Theatre at Concordia University, Nebraska, is one of those projects that stands out—not just for its scale, but for the story behind it.

When Concordia University embarked on a $17.5 million project to expand and renovate their music facilities, we knew it was going to be something special. Our task? To create custom precast panels that would form the building’s exterior. But these weren’t just any panels. Each one had to be crafted with precision, featuring a series of angles that added depth and dimension to the building’s design.

Our form builders took on the challenge, constructing the wood forms in-house to meet the exact specifications. It wasn’t easy especially considering that some of these panels required stacking two pieces to achieve the full height, with the heaviest panel weighing in at 27,500 pounds.

But the project wasn’t just about the panels. It was about collaboration. Working closely with the architects and contractors, we were able to bring their vision to life. The Borland Center now boasts a striking facade that not only meets the aesthetic goals of the architects but also supports the structural integrity of this innovative space.

And the impact of this project didn’t stop at the building’s completion. One year after the Borland Center opened its doors, Concordia University’s Department of Music celebrated its largest-ever enrollment of music majors for the 2024-2025 school year. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how this new facility is already fostering growth and attracting more students to pursue their passion for music and theatre.

The Borland Center is more than just a building; it’s a place where students and faculty can collaborate, create, and perform. It’s a space that reflects Concordia’s commitment to excellence in the arts, and we’re honored to have been a part of it.

More Precast Information:

• See all Project Partners and Learn More
• Insulated Precast Panels
• Precast Design Assistance Services