Adam Kaczmarek Structural Option

 

Cambria Suites Hotel Pittsburgh, PA

 

Final Presentation

 

Thesis Proposal

 

 

 

Final Presentation

User Note: While great efforts have been taken to provide accurate and complete information on the pages of CPEP, please be aware that the information contained herewith is considered a work-in-progress for this thesis project. Modifications and changes related to the original building designs and construction methodologies for this senior thesis project are solely the interpretation of Adam Kaczmarek. Changes and discrepancies in no way imply that the original design contained errors or was flawed. Differing assumptions, code references, requirements, and methodologies have been incorporated into this thesis project; therefore, investigation results may vary from the original design.”

SENIOR THESIS MAIN PAGE PENN STATE ARCHITECTURAL ENGINEERING AE COMPUTER LABS CONTACT ADAM AT ACK5057@PSU.EDU

This page was last updated on May 1, 2011 and is hosted by the AE Department © 2010-2011

Structural Depth

This thesis proposal thoroughly outlines the entire process of obtaining an optimized building design for the Cambria Suites Hotel.  For the structural depth, the current concrete masonry structure will be modified to an all steel frame system which will still incorporate the use of precast concrete planks as the floor system.  The lateral system will consist of shear walls which surround the staircases and elevator shaft, with the possible use of braced frames for extra lateral support.  The exterior shear walls will be replaced by either a curtain wall system or a structural panel façade.  In addition, the existing foundation will be checked for the proposed structural design.

 

To view an updated PDF version of the Executive Summary, please click here.  Repost of original. (1/13/11)

 

To view an updated PDF version of the Thesis Proposal, please click here.  Repost of original. (1/13/11)

 

To view a PDF version of the Executive Summary, please click here.  (12/10/10)

 

To view a full PDF version of the Thesis Proposal, please click here.  (12/10/10)

 

 

 

Breadth Study I:  Architectural Study

Due to the proposed alternate structural design, a study of how this modification will alter the existing architecture of the building will be conducted.  Converting the structural system from a concrete masonry structure to a steel structure will change the architectural features of the building, especially the exterior façade design.  Research will be performed on how a new architectural system could possibly create a more flexible layout and aesthetical look compared to the existing design.  With the use of steel along the exterior of the structure, it could allow for the use of either a curtain wall system to allow more daylight into the building, structural wall panels, or non-load bearing masonry walls.  Heat loss calculations will be compared between the existing and alternate facades, and the more efficient system will be determined.

 

Breadth Study II:  Construction Management

The proposed alternate structural design is primarily made of steel, which creates two construction management issues due to the change in material.  The two issues are project cost and construction schedule.  Both issues will be addressed and compared for the existing, as well as the proposed alternative building system.  Based on the results, conclusions will be made whether the proposed design is a feasible solution based on cost and time efficiency.