Solution

Johns Hopkins University, Krieger Hall

Baltimore, MD

Service: Building Enclosure Investigation, Building Enclosure Rehabilitation, Structural Investigation, Structural Rehabilitation

Market: Education - College & Prep

Keywords: Award Winning, Below-Grade, Below-Ground Waterproofing, Civil, Drainage, Excavation Support, Foundation, Geotechnical, Masonry-Brick, Plaza, Preservation Technology , Structural Strengthening, Water Leakage, Waterproofing

Client

John Hopkins University

Completion

2017

Constructed in 1929, historic Krieger Hall sits on the Keyser Quadrangle at Johns Hopkins University (JHU). It connects to Ames Hall through a vestibule and colonnade walkway to the west and adjoins an elevated plaza over the library to the east. JHU faculty and staff reported leakage into below-grade spaces along the north elevation. SGH investigated the cause of leakage and masonry distress, and designed repairs.

Scope | Solutions

Our initial field investigation included water testing and observing below-grade construction at test pits along the north wall. SGH subsequently investigated leakage, stone deterioration, differential movement, and distress at the west colonnade and vestibule. We evaluated the north foundation wall’s ability to resist lateral earth pressure and the colonnade’s structural adequacy, considering our proposed waterproofing and masonry rehabilitation concepts.

As the prime consultant, SGH also oversaw the work of a site/civil consultant. We prepared construction documents addressing leakage and deterioration while maintaining the building’s historic character. Our design included the following:

Temporarily supporting a 28 ft excavation to expose the north wall below grade, while limiting disruption to the interior and nearby old growth trees
Constructing a supplemental concrete foundation wall outboard of the existing north foundation
Installing below-grade waterproofing on the north foundation wall
Modifying storm and foundation drainage systems to direct water from the adjacent quad into drains
Reconstructing the colonnade with new waterproofing and a lighter roof assembly designed to accommodate movement between structures
Installing waterproofing at the east and vestibule plazas and stairs

SGH provided construction phase services, including reviewing contractor submittals and payment applications, visiting the site to observe ongoing construction, and helping the contractor resolve unforeseen field conditions.