The gravity system of MTOB shall be redesigned using cellular composite beams and custom girders (in an exposed ceiling).

The size of the gravity members will be analyzed in three different ways to ensure its adequacy and efficiency. A RAM model will be created for the new grid and structural system. This will give computer generated sizes for the composite cellular beams. Then plastic analysis will be used to approximate the cellular beam as a Vierendeel truss to analyze its adequacy.

An architectural façade redesign is called for to emphasize the structure and to reflect the contemporary style of the offices. New enclosure materials will include metal paneling, spandrel glass, brick, and glass. These materials will allow the building to assimilate with the surrounding architecture while lending a modern feel. A study will be done to anticipate the use of the building materials to impact envelope performance. This will include thermal envelope calculations and look at the potentials for condensationg.

The lateral system is now concentrically braced frames. While most buildings try to avoid crossing in front of windows, the lateral bracing will be emphasized directly behind the windows.

To facilitate the façade redesign process, a computer model will be made in Revit. The Revit model will contain the structural beams, columns, and bracing underneath the architectural façade. This will give a more realistic impression of how the new enclosure will work with the structural redesign.

Most mechanical systems are simply hung below the structure. However, to allow the ceiling to expose the structure (no hung ceiling), fire ratings require the building to shorten by 5' to a 65' building height. Cellular beam systems are a deeper system, which complicates the necessity to lower the height. In order to meet the height requirement of the IBC, the mechanical system will have to be carefully incorporated into the structure. To complicate the duct system more, the lack of plenum space will require both supply ducts and return ducts, where a typical hung ceiling will use the plenum to collect return air.

As part of the mechanical breadth, load and ventilation requirements will be calculated. This will be used to size main duct runs and feeders, making sure that they are small enough to fit through the cells of the cellular beams and the webs of the girders. A typical mechanical duct run plan will be created to show a possible layout of ductwork for supply and return air.