Beginning with preconstruction, Turner used continuous education, communication and coaching to proactively manage safety on the project.

The 80-ft-high cylindrical exterior stucco structure and the 48-ft open height of the interior presented safety challenges. On the interior, the team used the Quickdeck Suspended Access System, a scaffolding system typically used for bridge work. It not only enhanced safety, but also allowed for an accelerated construction schedule by opening up multiple levels of workspace to contractors at the same time, Coates says.

The team's efforts resulted in nearly a half-million worker-hours on the job without an OSHA recordable incident or lost-time accident.

Since opening in January, the venue has received rave reviews. Maggie Burgett, Stanford's project manager, says, "The hall will allow Stanford students from all disciplines to experience the performing arts at an unparalleled level and to bring a new level of professionalism to their own performance practice."

Key Players

Contractor Turner Construction Co., Oakland

Owner Stanford University

Lead Design Ennead Architects, New York

Structural Engineer Degenkolb Engineers, San Francisco

Civil Engineer Wilsey Ham, Foster City

MEP Engineers Taylor Engineering and The Engineering Enterprise, both Alameda

Consultants Nagata Acoustics, Los Angeles; Fisher Dachs Assoc., New York

Subcontractors Olson & Co. Steel, Fresno; Cupertino Electric, San Francisco; California Drywall, San Jose; Joseph J. Albanese, Santa Clara; Therma Corp., San Jose; Walters & Wolf, Fremont