A mix of structural failure, preservation needs and complex site logistics came together in this project. The most pressing concern was the condition of the existing foundations. As crews uncovered misaligned footings and signs of settlement, it became clear that traditional repair methods would not be feasible. Some footings would have required excavation as deep as 8 ft beneath an already compromised structure. The contractor proposed using helical piles, eliminating the need for deep, adjacent excavations and providing superior load-bearing performance.

Photo courtesy Andrea Calo

Meanwhile, the team was managing precise field measurements for every structural component due to inconsistencies in the original masonry and framing. Structural shoring was deployed early and remained in place for months as crews removed and replaced timber trusses, coordinated vendor MEP locations and reconstructed walls. Custom bracing adapted a tilt-wall system to stabilize deteriorating masonry from the outside in.

The aging structure meant workers were operating under compromised rooflines and near deteriorated masonry, even before the project entered full demolition. Daily safety briefings were reinforced by structural shoring systems that were treated as active fall protection zones. Early orientations emphasized the unusual conditions, from historic walls with no lateral reinforcement to floor transitions mid-demolition and overhead hazards from existing trusses. Fall arrest systems were used liberally and access to certain zones was strictly limited.