Distribution Warehouse Expansion

Structural System

Steel-framed expansion with joist-and-deck roof, tied into the existing building's lateral system through a designed interface line.

Existing Conditions

Existing tilt-up and steel building remaining fully operational during construction, with the demising wall opened in phases.

Scope of Work

• Evaluation of the existing structure at the expansion interface
• Design of the expansion framing, foundations, and dock structures
• Lateral system continuity design between existing and new construction
• RFI responses and field observations during construction

Design Challenges

• Maintaining lateral capacity while openings were cut into the existing wall line
• Matching new floor slab performance to the owner's racking and forklift loads
• Phased construction against an occupied, operating warehouse

Engineering Approach

• Sequenced wall openings with temporary bracing designed for each phase
• Slab-on-grade designed for the racking layout and post loads provided by the owner
• Expansion lateral system detailed to limit demand added to existing elements

Construction Considerations

• Phasing plan reviewed with the contractor before demolition began
• Dock and canopy steel packaged for early procurement

Outcome

Sample outcome summary: operations continued through construction and the phased openings proceeded per the temporary-bracing plan. Replace with a verified project narrative.

Project Images