Palo Alto, CA
Polytrauma and Blind Rehabilitation Center, Field Guide
Scope/Solutions
Displayed outside the Veteran’s Administration Polytrauma & Blind Rehabilitation Center, Field Guide initially appears to be an abstract latticework. As they approach, visitors can see or feel that this form comprises twenty-two images of indigenous Northern California species complemented by dozens of three-dimensional golden birds. The same graphics are replicated inside on a copper-colored cylinder suspended in the atrium. SGH consulted on the structural and seismic performance of both sculptures.
SGH collaborated with Helmick Sculpture to design the intricate waterjet-cut steel sculptures. Highlights of our work included the following:
- Performed finite element analyses using Rhino and Millipede with in-house scripts to rapidly predict material stresses in the steel, based on iterative design changes
- Designed the structures to meet seismic demands, working within the sculpture’s artistic intent and dimensional requirements
- Used a rapid computational analysis process, allowing the artist to continue his design process without being delayed
- Designed the exposed architectural concrete foundation for the exterior display, including hidden base connections
- Used a dynamic design process to evaluate the suspended cylinder and help the artist minimize and optimize the hanger locations
- Developed details to connect the cylinder’s wire hangers to the atrium’s ceiling structure
Photo by Will Howcroft
Photo by Will Howcroft
Photo by Will Howcroft
Photo by Will Howcroft
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Project Summary
2017
Completion Date
Solutions
New Construction
Services
Advanced Analysis
Markets
Culture & Entertainment | Health Care & Life Sciences
Client(s)
Helmick Sculpture
Specialized Capabilities
AI & Automation
Key team members
Additional Projects
West
Denver Art Museum, North Building
Designed by Gio Ponti, the North Building opened in 1971. The castle-like exterior represents the building’s function of protecting the museum’s artwork. As part of a modernization project, SGH developed a new tile attachment concept and peer reviewed proposed renovations to the building enclosure.
West
San Francisco War Memorial Veterans Building & Performance Arts Center
The San Francisco War Memorial Veterans Building and adjacent Opera House are aesthetically-similar, Beaux-Arts structures commemorating U.S. veterans of World War I. The Veterans Building provides office and meeting space for veterans organizations and houses the 916-seat Herbst Theater. The theater, a cornerstone of San Francisco’s performing arts scene, showcases several hundred performances each year. In 1945, the Veterans Building and Opera House hosted ceremonies surrounding the signing of the United Nations Charter, and together, the two buildings are important contributors to the San Francisco Civic Center National Historic District.