Structural Focus receives SEAOSC Excellence in Structural Engineering Award

Los Angeles — Structural Focus accepted the 2016 Excellence in Structural Engineering Award for The Masonic Temple project from the Structural Engineers Association of Southern California (SEAOSC). Caruso Affiliated partnered with the tenant, CBRE Group Inc.; architect, Gensler; contractor, W.E. O’Neil; and structural engineer, Structural Focus, to successfully transform the historic building into a state-of-the-art creative office space within the parameters of a significant landmark building. The renovation of The Masonic Temple was completed in December 2015.

The Masonic Temple in Glendale, Calif., once stood as the tallest building on Brand Boulevard and has housed six different Masonic organizations since its opening in 1929. The building is listed in the Glendale Register of Historic Resources. It consists of four double-height stories, each with a partial mezzanine, and a full basement. The building’s structure consists of a full structural steel frame encased in concrete. 

The Masonic Temple’s historic renovation was dictated by a fast-paced schedule that posed a challenge on a complex structural project. The $16 million project was completed in approximately seven months from beginning of design to occupancy. As with any historic project, surprises arose, and each unforeseen problem required a quick turnaround. The contractor’s thorough documentation of unforeseen conditions and the architect’s flexibility in design, coupled with the structural engineer’s out-of-the-box solutions, are credited for the success of the project.