The FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tennessee, completed in 2004, is a hallmark of John W. McDougall Company’s design, fabrication, and installation expertise. This distinctive circular building, known for its iconic “halo,” utilized a diverse range of materials and systems, including the 400 Series ACM Rainscreen system, Morin panels with three unique profiles, various types of louvers, and perforated stainless steel. Notably, the halo features ribbed, perforated stainless-steel panels and painted perforated aluminum plate panels, showcasing intricate craftsmanship.
The project’s primary feature involved 3,600 ACM panels in four different colors, arranged randomly to emulate the natural variation of brickwork, which brought a unique aesthetic to the facade. McDougall’s team provided tailored solutions to meet specific challenges, such as integrating concealed ribbed panels to hide louvers while preserving the design’s visual integrity and addressing the structural demands of large 20-foot panels, which required precise handling of thermal movement.
This project pushed boundaries in adaptive design and project management, as McDougall streamlined crew coordination through area-specific drawing sets, enhancing communication and reducing redundancy prior to the BIM era. The FedEx Forum remains a testament to McDougall’s commitment to quality, resilience, and innovation, as well as their ability to adapt and maintain the facility’s appearance through structural updates even years after its initial completion.
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