Project Overview
BKBM provided structural and civil engineering for the renovation and connecting link addition of three existing campus buildings at CWA. Each of the existing buildings ranged from one to three stories and included basements. The project featured a new three-story link with two-story curtain wall façades, integrating previously independent campus structures into a cohesive facility.
Project Highlights
- Innovative “Tree” Column System:
- Used large circular steel tubes for main “trunk” columns, with auxiliary steel tubes branching to the glulam roof structure, creatively blending architectural vision and lateral stability.
- The tree-inspired structural system provided both primary vertical support and lateral resistance in a visually impactful way.
- Complex Connections:
- The new link connected to existing buildings on both the north and south sides, requiring careful coordination and creative solutions for foundation and structural ties.
- Implemented a permanent soil retention system at the north end, addressing the challenge of undermined existing foundations by six feet.
- Responsive Field Collaboration:
- BKBM performed frequent site visits to ensure design intent was executed, provided timely responses to field questions, reviewed submittals efficiently, and designed field repairs as needed to maintain construction momentum.
- Civil Engineering Solutions:
- Grading and drainage design for the 1.10-acre site, including integration of permeable pavers for sidewalks, the parking lot, and the courtyard.
- Designed and coordinated new utility services for the site: storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water, chilled water supply/return, and low-pressure steam/condensate.
- Constructed a rain garden in the southeast lawn to improve site drainage and manage runoff near the existing Wendelin building.
Engineering Solutions
BKBM’s structural engineers transformed the architectural vision for the welcome center link into reality, deploying creative “tree” column frameworks for lateral and gravity support. The integration with existing buildings demanded a customized foundation retention system and persistent collaboration with the construction team. Civil solutions supported resilient site drainage, sustainable paving, and comprehensive utility upgrades.
Results & Impact
The completed CWA renovation and link addition provides seamless campus integration, greater accessibility, and a dramatic architectural statement. The project’s engineering excellence—recognized as a Finance & Commerce Top Project—demonstrates BKBM’s commitment to creative problem-solving, quality assurance, and client-focused outcomes.
1967
15,000+
23
Minneapolis & Denver