“Do not forget release agent”
I think the architectural design is quite good based on the timeless criteria of the Vitruvian triad: solidity (craft/quality), usefulness (program/brief), delight (beauty/asethtically pleasing).
I guess these slight failing would fall under the categories of - SOLIDITY and DELIGHT.
Here is a link to an example of much finer work is being done on other formwork projects.
My only quibble is the ’smoothness’ and ‘flatness’ of the concrete formwork. I accept that USA construction quality standards are not quite as they could be: compared to what I see being done on top European and Asian projects. However, the concrete facade here could be a lot better looking.
Great photos by 5Bfilms
Excerpt from link posted above - The way to a pervect smooth surface.
The formwork shell is crucial
The decisive influence on the appearance and quality of the exposed concrete is exerted by the formwork shell: Formwork made of OSB panels or untreated wood creates very different looks for the exposed concrete surface, and the type of wood itself also influences the look. System formwork is often used in the production of exposed concrete, which prescribes fixed frame sizes and locations for formwor ties. The resulting visual impact can be avoided by using beam formwork – ideally, planners should already define this in the specifications. The owner and contractor can jointly define the details for the formwork in the construction process on the basis of test areas and, as a result, a reference area.
The composition of the concrete is also important for the quality of the exposed concrete. Phenomena such as separation or bleeding must be avoided during construction and compaction. Concrete processors can follow a few basic rules that have proven themselves in practice. These include sufficiently high mortar content, a cement content ≥ 300 kg/m³ and a water-cement ratio ≤ 0.55. The appropriate consistency can be achieved by using a liquefying additive. In order not to negatively influence the coloring, no residual water or residual concrete should be used. When mixing the raw materials, the variations in dosage must be kept as low as possible, because even small deviations can have a noticeable effect on the brightness of the concrete. All concrete production should be continuous during construction using the same manufacturing plant and the same raw materials. Colors can be created with white cement, colored aggregates or pigments, for example.