2023 SFIA Awards: 7 Key Learnings about Using Cold-Formed Steel (CFS)

Cold-formed steel (CFS) framing continues to gain prominence in construction, providing architects and engineers with versatile and sustainable solutions. The Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA) recognizes outstanding achievements in this field through its annual awards. In 2023, several noteworthy projects stood out, showcasing innovation, sustainability and excellence in working with cold-formed steel framing.

Here are seven key learnings from SFIA’s award-winning projects:

1. Metal Framing Innovations Bring Multi-Family Construction Success

SFIA member ADTEK Engineers earned SFIA’s Steel Framing Award for their work on the Atlantic Crossing Building III, Delray Beach, Florida. The project’s success lies in embracing innovation — specifically, incorporating advanced techniques in CFS framing. This underlines the importance of staying abreast of the latest technologies to optimize construction processes, enhance structural integrity and achieve remarkable architectural designs.

Read more about the innovation featured at ADTEK Engineers’ Atlantic Crossing Building III project.

2. Metal Framing Helps Structures Withstand Environmental Challenges

SFIA member Negwer Materials secured an SFIA award for the Valley Park Fire Station #2, Valley Park, Missouri, emphasizing the significance of safety and resilience in non-residential structures. CFS framing, known for its durability and strength, played a pivotal role in ensuring the fire station’s ability to withstand various environmental challenges. This project underscores the importance of prioritizing safety and resilience in non-residential construction.

Read more about Negwer Materials’ Valley Park Fire Station 2 project.

3. Metal Framing, or CFS, is Highly Adaptable

SFIA member ADTEK Engineer’s recognition for the UVA Health Orthopedic Center Ivy Road, Charlottesville, Virginia, highlights the adaptability of cold-formed steel framing in constructing specialized facilities. The project’s success emphasizes the importance of tailoring solutions to meet the unique requirements of healthcare infrastructure, showcasing how cold-formed steel can be customized for specific needs.

Read more details about ADTEK’s UVA Health Orthopedic Center Ivy Road project.

4. CFS Helps Achieve Sustainable Designs

SFIA member CEMCO,’s recognition for the University of Hawaii Atherton Hall, Honolulu, Hawaii, focuses on sustainability, showcasing the importance of collaboration in achieving environmentally friendly construction practices. CFS framing, known for its recyclability and efficiency, played a key role in meeting sustainability goals. This project underscores the significance of collaborative efforts in pushing the boundaries of green construction.

Read more about CEMCO’s University of Hawaii Atherton Hall project.

5. CFS Provides Both Aesthetic Appeal and Structural Soundness

SFIA member R.A. Smith, Inc.‘s SFIA award-winning project at 1122 W. Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, underscores the importance of achieving a balance between aesthetic appeal and structural soundness in multi-family residential constructions. CFS framing allows architects to create visually striking designs without compromising on strength and stability. This project highlights the potential for innovative and aesthetically pleasing residential structures with the use of CFS framing.

Read more about R.A. Smith’s 1122 W. Chicago, Chicago project.

6. CFS Can Maximize Space and Efficiency

SFIA member ClarkDietrich‘s success with the I-X Center demising wall buildout in Cleveland, emphasizes the role of CFS framing in maximizing space and efficiency in non-residential buildings. The project demonstrates the versatility of CFS framing in creating large, open spaces that cater to various functions. This project’s key takeaway lies in the importance of optimizing space without compromising on structural integrity in non-residential constructions.

Read more about the ClarkDietrich’s I-X Center interior demising wall project.

7. CFS Posed to Redefine the Education Sector

SFIA member ClarkDietrich and The Blythe Group’s award for the Grand Junction High School, Grand Junction, Colorado, project showcases the potential of CFS framing in redefining education infrastructure. The project emphasizes the adaptability of CFS framing in creating modern, functional, and durable educational spaces. This recognition reinforces the idea that cold-formed steel can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of educational construction.

Read more about ClarkDietrich’s Grand Junction High School project.

In conclusion, SFIA’s 2023 award-winning projects provide valuable insights into the diverse applications of cold-formed steel framing in construction. From innovation in multi-family residential projects to sustainability in university residences, these projects collectively highlight the adaptability, durability and aesthetic potential of CFS framing. As the industry continues to evolve, these key learnings serve as a guide for professionals looking to harness the full potential of cold-formed steel in their future endeavors.

Additional Resources

• SFIA’s Steel Framing Learning Portal Has Metal Framing Education (24/7/365)
• Again, Who Says It Is More Sustainable to Build With Wood Than Steel?
• Sorting Apples from Oranges — Comparing Evaluation Services with Third-Party Certification