SLS Building Systems - Mercy Hall at Loyola University, New Orleans, Louisiana

SLS Building Systems has become a trusted name in offsite fabrication for mid-rise construction. Specialising in panelised wall systems, trusses, and floor framing, the SLS team leverages advanced design tools and Howick roll-forming technology to streamline commercial construction projects across the US. 

For one of their most recent projects, Mercy Hall at Loyola University in New Orleans, SLS provided prefabricated wall panels for this major student housing redevelopment - helping to accelerate the schedule, improve onsite safety, and reduce labour demands.

Project overview 

The Mercy Hall redevelopment is a US$75 million, 7-story student accommodation facility, spanning over 210,000 square feet (19,510 square metres) with 126 residential units and 612 beds. Located on Loyola University’s Uptown campus in New Orleans, the building also includes a community centre, lobby, and shared social spaces. 

The structure is built using post-tensioned cast-in-place concrete, with SLS’s prefabricated exterior wall panels integrated into the project as the concrete formwork was removed. This seamless coordination enabled faster envelope enclosure, an earlier start to internal trades, and a measurable improvement to the overall construction timeline.

Key benefits delivered 

Accelerated schedule by 20%

By installing wall panels directly between shoring as the building was erected, rather than waiting for full floor clearances, SLS helped the construction team stay ahead of schedule. 

Reduced onsite labour by 65%

Panels were delivered with sheathing, flashing, wood sill, and waterproofing already installed, minimising the amount of labour and equipment needed onsite.

Fully integrated design and fabrication workflow 

The team used Revit with StrucSoft MWF, integrating directly with the Howick FRAMA™ 5600 to
automate framing details. The system’s standardised component labelling streamlined both offsite assembly
and onsite installation.

Positive feedback from developer and contractor 

Both the general contractor and the building owner praised the accuracy and efficiency of the prefabricated solution. It helped maintain tight tolerances while keeping construction momentum high. 

The Howick advantage 

With the FRAMA™ 5600, SLS was able to deliver heavy-duty wall panels with precision punching, notching, and pre-cut lengths - all fabricated offsite to exacting specifications. The result was a faster, safer, and more predictable construction process on a large-scale project with complex sequencing. 

Mercy Hall is scheduled to open in late 2025 and will be home to hundreds of Loyola students. It is also a showcase for how smart design, digital tools, and roll-forming automation can deliver powerful results on even the most demanding projects.