Boston, MA
Boston University, Tsai Performance Center
Scope/Solutions
The Tsai Performance Center hosts concerts, theatrical and dance presentations, lectures, film programs, and conferences. Boston University wanted to upgrade an outdated sound system with new audio and network components. The upgrade involved suspending three new speaker arrays, each weighing more than 1,200 lbs, from portions of the existing building structure. SGH analyzed the existing roof and proscenium framing for the new speaker loads, designed structural improvements to the framing, and provided structural construction administration services for the new speaker installation.
SGH worked closely with the owner, acoustic consultant, contractor, and rigging vendor to provide the following services:
- Investigated and documented existing conditions of the steel-framed roof and proscenium structures
- Analyzed the existing roof and proscenium structures for new speaker loads, including dynamic effects caused by the motorized rigging equipment, and prepared a summary report
- Coordinated with the rigging vendor to select rigging and suspension hardware
- Designed structural modifications to strengthen a portion of the existing proscenium structure
- Prepared structural drawings identifying rigging attachment locations on the existing structure
- Assisted the contractor to address issues that arose during speaker and rigging installation
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Project Summary
2015
Completion Date
Solutions
Repair & Rehabilitation
Services
Structures
Markets
Culture & Entertainment | Education
Client(s)
Communications Design Associates, Inc.
Specialized Capabilities
Repair & Strengthening
Key team members
Additional Projects
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In November 2016, the Harvard Graduate School of Design (GSD) announced an inaugural design-build competition for an installation in The Grove at the intersection of North Harvard Street and Western Avenue. SGH consulted on the structural design for the project.
Northeast
Studio Museum of Harlem
The Studio Museum in Harlem was operating in a 1929 bank building that no longer met their programming requirements for showcasing works by artists of African descent. SGH designed the structure for the new building and served as the structural engineer of record for the project.