Structural Projects

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.

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 is providing structural and site/civil engineering design services including site investigation, layout and grading; irrigation design; structural design; drainage design; and construction administration.

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.

McLaren provided foundation and structural engineering services for the Center for the Arts building. Our role involved coordination with architect, mechanical engineer, acoustics consultant, and theater consultant to integrate structural layout with program, mechanical, and acoustic requirements. Technically speaking, the project involved design of 12-inch thick concrete and masonry walls, 3-foot thick mat foundations, and framing support on neoprene pads to satisfy acoustic requirements; design of sloped concrete seating bowls, performance hall balconies, and hanging gridiron and catwalks; and comparative analysis of alternative framing schemes.