r e n ewal
RENEWAL We provide property owners and managers with solutions to a wide range of structural, building systems and envelope needs for existing properties of every use, age and construction type.
r e n ewal
WHAT WE DO Our multidisciplinary design and assessment services cover a wide range of needs. We perform condition assessments, investigations, feasibility studies and peer reviews. We also design repairs, renovations and alterations and oversee their execution in the field. STRUCTURAL RENEWAL We help clients repair structural damage or deterioration, perform alterations or upgrade structures to meet current code. Our services address needs ranging from tenant improvements, repairing deteriorated sidewalk vaults and strengthening floor slabs, to complex structural repairs and full-building gut-renovation, modernization or adaptive reuse. We are also experts in advanced computational analysis for exceptional load demands such as blast forces, vehicular impact, seismic events and hurricanes.
ALWAYS INNOVATING We continually seek new ways to make our Renewal services smarter. We develop and apply specialized tools and techniques that improve both the way we capture information in the field and present complex technical data. This can lead to deeper insight and streamlined decisionmaking, resulting in a more persuasive, effective results.
ENVELOPE RENEWAL Expertise in hands-on investigation, analysis and repair or restoration design – for all material types and vintages – enables us to effectively address all aspects of building enclosures. We assist clients with structural supports, waterproofing components, windows, roofing, and site elements such as plazas and sidewalks. We evaluate root causes of performance failures and develop solutions that meet the building’s needs and the client’s budget. Our holistic approach extends to tackling energy code challenges and determining viable approaches to improving energy performance.
MULTIDISCIPLINARY BUILDING SYSTEMS RENEWAL Our building systems specialists combine design savvy, hands-on problem solving and experience in forensic failure investigation. We evaluate performance and develop appropriate upgrades, replacements and improvements for heating, cooling, electrical, plumbing and fire-protection systems. We assess energy performance, helping owners identify opportunities and strategies for savings. And, with expertise across multiple key disciplines, we can bundle our services into a comprehensive package that includes structural and waterproofing solutions. HISTORIC PRESERVATION We combine in-depth, specialized knowledge of façade restoration, historic materials conservation, and archaic structural systems with cutting-edge structural analysis and computer modeling capabilities. We investigate root causes and design sensitive repairs, seeking out the most appropriate and cost-effective solutions for each project. We strive to minimize impact to the historic fabric by applying our practical experience in nondestructive evaluation techniques, minimally invasive methods and remote monitoring.
HOW WE WORK
SPECIALIZED EXPERTISE
WE ARE MULTIDISCIPLINARY Our expertise covers all major building components and systems. No matter what problem needs solving, we bring the right people onto the project. Our wealth of experience in building renewal draws upon our extensive work in fabrication and construction, as well as our design and investigative work on structures, façades and in sustainability. We know what works in the field, from the inside out.
We employ an ever-expanding suite of specialized tools on our projects, including:
WE DO MORE THAN JUST THE TECHNICALLY CORRECT THING We look beyond the obvious to solve the real problem. We start by asking the right questions in order to understand our client’s objectives, and to account for such considerations as time and budget constraints, occupancy requirements and site logistics. We work with our clients to understand the history of their specific challenges. Our extensive experience enables us to zero in on the best practical recommendations to save both time and money.
ENERGY ANALYSIS We use computer-simulated representations of whole buildings and specific spaces to test designs – for façade options in a re-clading project or new or modified HVAC systems – for maximum operational energy savings. Kelly May / Thornton Tomasetti
When several 1920’s-era buildings were adapted to form part of the University of Chicago’s Saieh Hall for Economics, we provided structural services for their rehabilitation as well as for above- and below-ground additions.
WE HAVE LOCAL FEET ON THE GROUND (OR ON THE CORNICE) To best serve local needs, you have to be there. With 40+ offices, we know what works in many markets. We are well-versed in local building codes, suppliers, construction practices and material preferences.
Senior Designer Minas Konstantinou discusses terracotta replacement details with a contractor during a balcony and façade restoration at 251 Central Park West, a New York City landmark built in 1920. Bogdan Stefanescu / Thornton Tomasetti
3D LASER SCANNING AND PHOTOGRAMMETRY We use laser scanners to capture a precise record of existing building conditions, then create 3D models from the resulting point-cloud data. Our custom photogrammetry software can generate a 3D model from a series of high-resolution digital photographs. Both tools allow us to quickly produce highly accurate models of actual field conditions. FORENSIC INFORMATION MODELING (FIM) We developed a better way to manage and analyze data in a 3D or 4D model. Data is linked to model components for easy retrieval, keyword queries and statistical analysis. Our FIMs can quickly generate reports and visualizations for clear communication of complex technical issues. They can also track – and plainly show – changes to a structure’s physical condition over time. FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS (FEA) We use FEA to accurately model stresses in complex masonry façades, which provides insight into the underlying causes of observed distress. This clearer understanding of specific force-flow and stress behavior allows our restoration specialists to develop repair schemes that resolve the real problems.
THORNTON TOMASETTI OPTIMIZES THE DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE OF STRUCTURES, MATERIALS AND SYSTEMS FOR PROJECTS OF EVERY SIZE AND LEVEL OF COMPLEXITY. An employee-owned organization of engineers, scientists, architects and other professionals collaborating from offices worldwide, we support clients by drawing on the diverse expertise of our integrated practices. We are committed to being a sustainable and enduring organization and the global driver of innovation in our industry. INNOVATION AT OUR CORE
CORE is our innovation incubator, a vehicle for collaborating with project teams, academic institutions and other partners – in the AEC industry and beyond – to develop and market new technologies. CORE lab identifies and nurtures R&D projects – ranging from incremental to transformational – to create new capabilities, methods or products.
www.thorntontomasetti.com
CORE studio provides technology-focused expertise to all our practices, enhancing collaboration and responsiveness through a wide range of creative initiatives.