Sunset Emerald Coast

Project Details

This project involves the structural design and engineering for a development consisting of three two-story residential buildings and their surrounding area. The primary structural system for these buildings is a steel-reinforced concrete frame with maximum plan dimensions of approximately 72′ x 44′. The comprehensive scope required modern engineering solutions for a complex sloped roof and multiple floor systems, including a monolithic 3.5-inch-thick reinforced concrete slab on metal decking for the first floor and wooden decking on steel beams for the non-utilizable attic level. The design process included a rigorous structural analysis using finite element modeling (RFEM 6 and IDEA STATICA) to ensure the buildings could safely withstand high environmental loads. The structural elements and joints were engineered in accordance with the Bahamas Building Code, ASCE 7-22, ACI 318-19, and AISC 360-16 provisions. Special engineering attention was given to lateral load resistance to provide stability against extreme wind speeds of 180 MPH in Exposure Category D. The foundation system features reinforced concrete pad footings and grade beams designed to perform reliably under an allowable soil bearing pressure of 2,400 psf.

Role

Structural Engineer/Designer

Services Provided

The scope of services included the preparation of structural analysis, design calculations, and structural plans for Buildings A, B, and C. Structural calculations considered loading analyses for wind, seismic, dead, and live loads, together with the structural analysis and design of all structural components, including foundations, columns, beams, staircases, floor joists/slabs, roof rafters/trusses, steel connections, and other required framing elements to ensure adequate strength, stability, and code-compliant load transfer. The services also included the preparation of structural drawings consisting of foundation plans, floor framing plans, roof framing plans, structural framing elevations per gridline, pool foundation plans, pool structural sections with blowup details, and structural details, notes, and specifications required to clearly communicate the structural design intent and construction requirements. In addition, the scope included the preparation of structural material takeoffs generated from the analytical model, foundation fabrication drawings, and a structural framing 3D model to support coordination, visualization, and construction implementation.