Virginia Commonwealth University, Raleigh Hall

The building was altered many times over the years. SGH visited the site to document the existing structure and evaluate its condition. We designed structural modifications to support the renovation. Highlights of the work include:

• Reframing interior wood-framed bearing walls and modifying existing steel framing to conform to new layout
• Repositioning and reframing new elevator and stair shafts, allowing the exterior fire escape stairs to be removed
• Strengthening the existing wood-framed floors by sistering each joist to increase capacity and to help with floor leveling
• Designing foundations supported on helical piers to address low-capacity subgrade materials
• Reconstructing the ornate parapet that was deteriorated due to years of water infiltration

As the building enclosure consultant, SGH assessed the condition of the exterior enclosure; developed repair options to address deteriorated masonry walls, wood windows, and roofs; and helped the project team address field conditions during construction.