Entertainment Projects

McLaren performed structural engineering of the components and supports and developed calculations confirming code and specification compliance.

Hired as a structural expert, McLaren provided engineering support for incorporation of the exhibits, rockwork, and signs into the existing Preserve structure. This coordination of elements included accounting for the possibility of natural factors such as wind and earthquakes. It also considered the daily wear and tear of patron interaction. Since exhibit design occurred concurrently with the Preserve’s construction, McLaren performed a facility impact evaluation to demonstrate how the structural systems needed for the exhibits affected the structure. The need to ensure that all new systems introduced to the Preserve were adequately and safely supported was vital.

McLaren provided structural and mechanical engineering services for this fast track, one-of-a-kind event. These services included suitability assessment of the existing building for the event; development and evaluation of the car carriage and guide roller system, including determining hanging details; development of final drawings for the crane hoist support design; evaluation of the entry lobby level scaffolding, designing associated guide track; and preparation of final documents. Project challenges included fast track job with ambitious goals; sign and scaffold designs and submission documents completed only days before event; and development of appropriate wind loads and trolley behavior.

In addition to show-related work, McLaren has provided engineering for building renovations, restoration, and general maintenance in more than a dozen facilities constructed prior to 1930. Many of these projects involve façades, interiors, or entire buildings that have been land marked by the City of New York. McLaren has investigated existing conditions, developed engineering recommendations and/or designs to suit the goals of the projects, and observed the ongoing and completed work. The investigations have been extensive and have resulted in drawings that record the existing structure and features very accurately. The types of work include exterior elements, interior architectural elements, and facility theatrical features.

McLaren provided structural analysis of the horizontal tension trusses and the supporting space truss. We also provided erection procedures for the glass enclosure and it’s supporting stainless steel elements.