Mountain View Village Phase 2: A Triumph of EIFS Innovation at the 2024 EIFS Excellence Awards

Nestled in Riverton, Utah, the Mountain View Village Phase 2 is a testament to the power of modern construction technology blended with timeless architectural beauty. Recognized at the 2024 EIFS Excellence Awards, this mixed-use development redefines what’s possible with Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS), earning accolades for its innovative design, energy efficiency, and striking aesthetic. Spanning 62,000 square feet and completed in 2022, this 85-acre destination seamlessly integrates retail, dining, office spaces, fitness facilities, a luxury theater, dramatic fountains, and residential units into a vibrant community hub.

A Vision Realized Through EIFS

The client, Centercal Properties Inc., envisioned a façade that exuded the elegance of traditional masonry—think brick and cast stone—while meeting modern demands for cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency. EIFS emerged as the perfect solution, offering a lightweight, versatile system delivered on both fronts. Partnering with industry leaders like New Cast Stone, Master Wall, Inc., Nicolson Construction, LKL Associates, and AO Architects, the project team transformed this vision into reality.

Mountain View Village exemplifies how EIFS can elevate architectural aesthetics without sacrificing functionality. The design combines thin brick, lightweight cast stone, and textured stucco finishes to create a visually stunning exterior that rivals conventional masonry in appearance. This sophisticated blend ensures the building stands as a timeless landmark in Riverton, harmonizing traditional charm with contemporary efficiency.

Pushing the Boundaries of Creativity

Innovation was at the heart of this project. The team faced the challenge of merging a masonry-inspired look with stringent energy performance goals—a task traditional methods often struggle to achieve due to thermal bridging and structural weight. By transitioning to an EIFS framework, they integrated continuous insulation (CI) and a single-product air and water barrier, eliminating penetrations and boosting thermal performance. The result? A highly insulated structure that reduces energy loss, minimizes material weight, and lowers construction costs—all while preserving the desired aesthetic.

The adhesively applied lightweight cast stone, a proprietary product from New Cast Stone, added refined texture and depth to the façade. Paired with thin brick, it created a cohesive blend of old-world craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. This approach met the client’s goals and set a new standard for EIFS applications in masonry construction.

Overcoming Challenges with Smart Solutions

The project wasn’t without its hurdles. Balancing a traditional masonry aesthetic with modern efficiency required creative problem-solving. Conventional masonry often compromises energy performance and increases structural demands, but EIFS provided a lightweight veneer system that adhered directly to the substrate. This reduced the need for heavy footings and framing, cutting costs and enhancing sustainability. The system’s flexibility also ensured durability in Utah’s challenging climate, making it a win for form and function.

Performance Meets Sustainability

At its core, Mountain View Village Phase 2 showcases EIFS as more than just cladding—it’s a holistic solution for modern construction. The continuous insulation eliminates thermal bridging, delivering long-term energy savings, while the air and water barrier protects against moisture infiltration. Lightweight materials like cast stone and thin brick reduce the building’s carbon footprint, proving that beauty and sustainability coexist.

A New Benchmark for EIFS Excellence

Mountain View Village Phase 2 isn’t just a building—it’s a bold statement about the future of construction. Recognized at the 2024 EIFS Excellence Awards, it highlights how EIFS can transform ambitious architectural visions into reality while meeting today’s demands for sustainability, durability, and cost-efficiency. As a mixed-use destination, it’s poised to inspire communities and builders alike, proving that with the right tools and creativity, the possibilities are endless.