The Smith Tower renovation updates interior spaces and aged infrastructure. As part of a plan to attract larger, high-tech tenants, the comprehensive modernization included seismic upgrades, a lobby restoration, and installation of new electrical systems, air conditioning, plumbing, and fiber optic communications systems.
Adaptive reuse of a historic masonry building balances preservation with modern needs. In this case, the primary goal was to open up the interior spaces while adding necessary seismic bracing. Our engineers were among the first to take advantage of new preservation rules allowing light wells to be filled during historic renovations. Filling one of the building’s light wells allowed the installation of eccentrically braced frames (EBF’s) while preserving valuable programming space. This led to 16,000 additional square feet of space, larger floor plates, and the transformation of the layout to an open circular plan.
In order to preserve the historic character of the building, the wall for the light well mirrors the existing inset wall on the north facade. Castings of the existing elements produced glass reinforced gypsum panels that match the texture and color of the original terra cotta.
Highlights:
- Concentrating new lateral elements at the infill allowed the building to remain partially occupied during construction.
- In-depth experience with historic renovations and adaptive reuse projects utilizes a targeted approach to seismic reinforcement, augmenting the existing strengths of the structure and avoiding invasive options.
Photography © Matt Walsh