This two-story 55,000 square foot office building consists of two independent wings that are connected together by a two story glass lobby with an elevated walkway bridge at the second level. Each wing has independent lateral force resisting systems that consist of four steel braced frames, which are visible in the finished structure. The mono-sloped lobby roof and the elevated walkway bridge act as the continuity elements that tie the wings together. It was decided that the elevated walkway and roof would be supported by battered columns, to mimic trees with outstretched trunks supporting the structure for the lobby which serves as the main entrance for the facility. Aiding the owner in their cultural shift to an open workplace, a number of benefits from improved facility performance to a more adaptable office layout was delivered in the design.

 

It was necessary that Miller Consulting Engineers (MCE), design a structural building that is subject to anti-terrorism standards and to be designed as an essential facility with the goal of maintaining occupancy in the event of a natural disaster based on the owner needs and expectations. The design requirements were addressed using the current structural design code for safety as well as the anti-terrorism requirements using the Unified Facilities Criteria code. The anti-terrorism loading far exceeded the out-of-plane wind or seismic loading for the design of the exterior cladding and glazing, up to the point of the main force resisting elements. Another consideration with regard to the design was the comfort of the occupants. Strength and deflection aside, a large portion of the framing was governed by vibration concerns and the well-being of the residents. Both safety and protection needs were met with using structural methods to fulfill the design needs of the client.