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Structural engineers design the frame, or ‘bones,’ of a building to support and resist loads from gravity, wind, earthquake and other forces. The members and systems they size or select must also satisfy other requirements that may include functionality (not too ‘bouncy’ for comfort, sensitive instrument use, or sound isolation), aesthetics (fulfills the architect’s design goals), sustainability (applies renewable, easily recyclable or locally sourced materials), safety and security (difficult to penetrate, easy to evacuate, resistant to collapse in extreme events), and constructability (easy and fast to fabricate and erect). At the same time, the structural cost must fit within the owner’s budget, and construction time must fit within the planned construction schedule.
New building materials and pioneering architectural approaches challenge structural engineers to break new ground when helping fulfill the vision of the architect and owner. "Green building" structural considerations include using recycled and minimally processed or transported materials, and collaborating with building mechanical systems engineers to design for maximum energy and resource efficiency, and indoor environmental quality.
Thornton Tomasetti creates innovative structural engineering designs for a wide variety of projects worldwide, on every kind of site, and on nearly every continent – from grand-scale super-tall buildings, office towers, sports arenas, convention centers, retail centers, museums, hospitals, apartment buildings and schools, to intricate details on historic landmarks and individual residences. Our expertise applies as well to a wide range of special structures, such as tramways, waterfront projects, sculptures and monuments.
Collaborating closely with the entire project team, we optimize structural systems to help the owner and architect achieve their goals, reduce costs, simplify erection procedures, and accelerate construction. Our view of team participation means we develop multiple structural engineering alternatives to assist the whole team in selecting the appropriate structural solution to meet that project’s special requirements— functional, financial and aesthetic.
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