Proposed Brownell-House

Project Details

This project involves the structural design and engineering of a two-story residential building known as the Brownell-House. The comprehensive scope required modern engineering solutions for the entire wood-framed assembly, including rafters, floor joists, drop beams, columns, and headers, all supported by a specifically designed reinforced concrete foundation system. The primary structure utilizes high-strength Douglas Fir Larch (DF) lumber, ranging from No. 1 and No. 2 grades for sawn lumber to specialized 24F-V8 and 24F-V4 glulam beams for larger spans.The design process included a rigorous structural analysis to ensure the residence could safely withstand environmental loads, including snow, wind, and seismic forces. The structural elements were engineered in accordance with the International Building Code (IBC 2024), International Residential Code (IRC 2021), and ASCE 7-16 provisions. Special attention was given to lateral load resistance through a engineered wood shearwall system and a robust fastening schedule using Simpson Strong-Tie connectors, providing stability against wind speeds of 107 MPH (Exposure C) and requirements for Seismic Design Category B. The foundation system features independent reinforced concrete pad footings (3000 PSI) and wall footings designed to perform reliably under a gross soil bearing pressure of 1,500 psf.

Role

Structural Engineer/Designer

Services Provided

The scope of services included the preparation of comprehensive structural calculations and structural drawings for the proposed structure. Structural calculations included complete loading analyses for wind, seismic, dead, and live loads in accordance with the governing building codes and project site conditions. The work encompassed the structural analysis and design of all structural elements, including foundations, retaining walls, shear walls, load-bearing walls, columns, beams, floor joists, headers, staircases and railings, trusses or rafters, and structural connectors. The calculations verified that all components were capable of safely resisting gravity and lateral loads while maintaining a continuous and code-compliant load path from the roof and floor systems down to the supporting foundation.

The services also included the preparation of a complete set of structural drawings necessary for permitting, coordination, and construction. The drawing package included a Foundation Plan identifying the layout and sizing of footings and foundation elements; Main Floor and Second Floor Framing Plans showing the structural framing arrangement and member sizes; and a Roof Framing Plan identifying rafters, trusses, beams, and diaphragm components. The structural drawings further included Garage Floor, Main Floor, and Second Floor Shear Wall Layout Plans illustrating the lateral force-resisting system; a Structural Building Section View clarifying vertical load paths and framing relationships; and Retaining Wall Section Details. The drawing set also contained typical structural details, general structural notes, and specifications necessary to clearly communicate the design intent and construction requirements while ensuring compliance with applicable codes and facilitating efficient plan review and accurate field implementation.