Seismic/Adaptive Renovation

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Seismic/Adaptive Renovation

The Raw & True Nature of Structural Engineering.

Whether building new or readapting what already exists, making sure a structure is “up to snuff” is precisely what we do.

Our work

When building uses change or the structures themselves no longer meet important seismic standards, this is where our engineers leverage experience and creative problem solving. Sometimes these projects require certain detective skills on our engineers’ part as most older structures no longer have their original building plans. These on-site evaluations vary from simple visual observations to extensive exploratory investigations that get at the bones of a building.

It’s an exciting process that reveals the extent of required work and how best to approach it. Whether it’s preserving the existing cladding, adhering to strict budgets, working to accommodate operational schedules or a combination of it all, DCI is there to help these places find new life again.

Key Considerations

Site conditions
Assessment of existing building conditions for seismic performance
Cost analysis
Single or multi-phase project/renovation
Identify if the project qualifies as an adaptive reuse/occupancy change within its jurisdiction
Voluntary or mandatory seismic upgrade
Full or partial seismic upgrade
Exploratory excavation/demolition plan
Determine if a seismic isolation joint should be installed
Jurisdictional height requirements/zoning rules
Architectural design intent
Reinforcement needs (floor stiffening, shotcrete walls)
Determine if a new basement or podium structure is needed for an existing building
Project requirements to keep business/school open during renovation
Historic preservation
Construction sequencing/temporary support of existing building elements
Bracing of unreinforced masonry
Civil engineering needs

Featured project

Eastside Exchange

The DNA is still intact.”

Brad Malsin, president of Beam Development

Central Eastside’s largest, readapted office/retail center

Portland’s Convention Plaza (built in 1925) transformed into an upgraded office/retail mixed-use building, the largest readapted project of its kind in the Central Eastside District. Until new owners opted for a building occupancy change, the former furniture manufacturing warehouse was slated for demolition. DCI Engineers conducted the initial building evaluation and recommended specific rehabilitation for the new Eastside Exchange.

The result is a contemporary building with sustained materials and a history to tell. Eastside Exchange’s heavy timber columns and beams are now exposed and part of the interior finishes. The lateral system consists of new and existing concrete shear walls. Shotcrete shearwalls were applied to the tower. Thicker concrete spread footings were installed into the foundation. A 3” concrete topping was applied to the sheathing of existing floor systems to act as diaphragms.

The 6,200-sf Exchange Ballroom and the 2,200-sf Exchange Rooftop can be leased for events and weddings.

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