Panache Car Wash
2024
Panache Car Wash
The Project
Currently under construction in Beaufort, South Carolina, Panache Car Wash is taking shape as a modern facility designed for operational efficiency and durability. The structure is designed to handle the specific environmental challenges of a car wash, utilizing a hybrid material palette that places moisture-resistant masonry at the ground level and efficient wood framing above.
The Client
The developers required a facility that balanced cost-efficiency with long-term resilience. Given the high-moisture environment inherent to the business, they needed a design that would resist water damage while still achieving a specific architectural roof profile that defines the brand’s aesthetic.
The Challenge
The primary challenge in car wash design is moisture control. The constant presence of water at the ground level can rapidly degrade standard building materials. Additionally, the project required a roof system capable of spanning the open wash tunnel while supporting the specific architectural profile selected for the job—all without inflating the budget.
The Solution
To address these needs, the team implemented a strategic material division. Rugged masonry was utilized for the ground-level walls, providing a durable, water-resistant base where moisture exposure is highest. For the roof structure, the team selected wood trusses. These trusses provided an efficient and cost-effective method to achieve the necessary clear spans and the desired roof profile.
The Improvements
The design includes a critical improvement for longevity: moisture control finishes. In both the masonry base and the wood upper structure, specialized finishes will be applied to seal the envelope. This layered approach ensures that while the structural materials are optimized for their specific zones (masonry for wet, wood for spans), the entire building is unified against water intrusion.
The Results
Construction is currently underway and progressing well under the guidance of Gregg Brunson and Brunson Construction. The hybrid design by Allison Ramsey Architects is proving to be a practical solution, with the wood trusses now installed and shaping the building’s final form. The facility is on track to be a durable, efficient addition to the Beaufort community.
