Renovation & Adaptive Reuse Engineering

Overview

Working within an existing building is a different discipline than designing a new one. We help owners and design teams alter, expand, and repurpose existing structures — evaluating what's there, designing what's new, and stitching the two together with details that respect both the code and the realities of construction in an occupied or historic building.

When Clients Call Us for This

• Confirmation that an existing structure can support the proposed change
• New openings, additions, or floor loads engineered into old structure
• A structural path through change-of-occupancy code requirements
• Sensitivity to historic fabric and occupied-building construction

Typical Project Types

• Change of occupancy and building conversions
• Vertical additions and building expansions
• New stair, elevator, and skylight openings
• Removal of load-bearing walls and columns
• Floor strengthening for new loads
• Historic building modifications
• Tenant improvements with structural scope

What the Scope Can Include

• Evaluation of existing structure for proposed alterations
• Design of new openings, transfers, and reinforcement
• Vertical and horizontal addition design, including lateral system checks
• Floor strengthening and stiffening design
• Existing-building code compliance evaluation for the structural scope
• Phasing and shoring coordination with the contractor

Deliverables

• Alteration drawings distinguishing existing, demolished, and new structure
• Calculations addressing both new elements and affected existing elements
• Temporary-condition guidance where included in the scope

Key Design Considerations

• Capacity and condition of the existing structure
• Existing-building code provisions triggered by the alteration
• Construction sequencing, shoring, and occupied areas
• Compatibility of new and existing materials
• Historic preservation requirements where applicable

What You Get Out of It

• Reuse strategies that avoid unnecessary demolition and replacement
• Alterations that satisfy the code without over-triggering upgrades
• Details a contractor can execute inside a working building
• Fewer surprises when walls are opened

Frequently Asked Questions