Structural engineering is the art of molding materials we don't wholly understand, into shapes we can't fully analyze, so as to withstand forces we can't really assess, in such a way that the community at large has no reason to suspect the extent of our ignorance..
James E. Amrhein - Masonry Institute of America
Our embrace of advanced building information modeling technology and our collaborative, holistic approaches offer increased design and construction efficiency to solve several problems in contemporary construction such as low productivity and waste, time overruns, quality issues and conflicts during construction among the key stakeholders of owner, architect and contractor.
Professional Engineer with a Masters in Structural Engineering from the University of Trento (Italy) and Masters in Construction Management from the University of Kansas (USA)
We routinely share our models with owners, architects, contractors and fabricators because we believe this is the best way to clearly communicate project information. We use building information modeling (BIM) on every project, so our designs “live” in 3D models. When traditional deliverables are required, our interoperability translators provide precise translations to 2D drawings.
Sap2000 and ETABS are our preferred design tools, but we have in-house interoperability systems that enable us to work in, or translate from and to, any design package.
Every project presents a unique combination of priorities and constraints, from sequence of construction to budget and schedule. We create customized project delivery strategies, choosing from among our construction engineering services to meet the specific needs of each project and client.
Our structural engineers look beyond the obvious to explore alternatives in search of the approach best suited to each project. Our solution-focused design approach uses sophisticated methods to conceptualize, model and deliver integrated designs that benefit all project stakeholders.
We offer structural engineering expertise for buildings of all types and sizes, including commercial, cultural, institutional, educational, government, healthcare, hospitality , residential, special structures, sports and public assembly.
When construction ends, a building’s life cycle is just beginning; its uses, functions, technologies and requirements will change over time. Our structural engineers perform design for major additions and expansions to existing buildings of every type, size and vintage. These projects can breathe new life into an old structure, providing a new look and improved functionality, as well as more space.
We conduct peer reviews in the same manner that we would want others to review our designs – by offering informed observations and constructive suggestions as helpful, professional colleagues. Our approach to peer review services applies lessons learned from engineering new buildings, investigating failures and renewing existing structures. We understand the key issues for each building type, and focus on those issues in our reviews.
For buildings of unconventional size, shape, structural system or function in high- seismic areas, code provisions written for typical structures may be inefficient, uneconomical or inappropriate. Performance-based design (PBD) is often a better approach. We start by working with clients to establish project-specific operational or performance criteria and determine appropriate loading events. Then we apply advanced analytical techniques, such as nonlinear and time-history analysis, to confirm that criteria are met or to highlight optimal approaches for subsequent design cycles. The result is a building that better addresses key performance goals.
More than one reasonable, safe and acceptable solution can often be applied to a particular design. Value engineering asks: “Which acceptable solution is most economical?” This process also poses the more challenging question: “Does an entirely different and better approach exist?” To answer both questions effectively, depth and breadth of experience is required. Our structural design professionals are technically advanced and well versed in a wide variety of project types, materials and construction methods, and so are able to offer value engineering recommendations for any project.
Comprehensive management of every stage of the project, beginning with the original concept and project definition that yields the greatest benefits to the owner. We can represent the owner by helping select the design and construction teams and managing the design (preventing scope creep) so as to stay within a predetermined budget with value engineering, cost-benefit analysis and best-value comparisons.