Lightwell Hotel

Coffman provided structural engineering for the renovation and seismic retrofit of a historic 1904 unreinforced masonry hotel. Exterior historic aspects of the building were maintained while the interior underwent complete restructuring, including removal of over 40 posts and columns, digging out and lowering the basement floor and foundations, adding new stair and elevator shafts, strengthening existing framing, making seismic improvements, and restructuring the fourth-floor outdoor terrace.

Seismic upgrades conforming to the requirements of ASCE 41-17 Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit of Existing Buildings were implemented, including floor and roof diaphragm strengthening and anchorage, parapet bracing, and strength evaluation of existing unreinforced masonry.

Coffman worked with the contractor to find an innovative unreinforced masonry mechanical anchoring solution for floor and roof diaphragm connections that reduced installation time and cut costs in materials and inspections over traditional epoxy anchors.

The completed renovation revitalized a primarily abandoned historic hotel into a modern, vibrant building while addressing architectural challenges and preserving its historic essence.

Photo credit: Blaine + Bethany Photography / Gallery