Square 487 Adaptive Reuse
Location: Washington, DC
Specialty Contractors: STRUCTURAL, Hardesty Concrete, Superior Iron Works
Adaptive reuse of the former WMATA headquarters transformed it into a structurally enhanced mixed-use landmark through extensive analysis and innovative reinforcement that increased load capacity and modernized outdated systems with minimal disruption.
PROJECT DETAILS
Adaptive reuse is gaining momentum in the construction industry as a sustainable approach to development. By repurposing existing structures, it reduces environmental impact and revitalizes communities.
When the former Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) headquarters was repurposed, the structure was transformed from a commercial facility into a mixed-use property. To meet the design goals—including the addition of three new floors, relocation of the building core, creation of slab openings for enhanced views, and construction of a multi-story lobby—extensive structural modifications and reinforcement were needed.
Tstrata provided comprehensive analysis and design support. The team assessed strengthening requirements, evaluated reinforcement strategies, and recommended customized repair solutions. Tstrata then executed the necessary repairs using a range of advanced techniques.
Along the perimeter and central core of the building, concrete enlargement restored load capacity, corrected column slenderness and splice issues, and supported new steel framing with embedded connection plates.
To enhance overall load performance with minimal disruption to existing building systems, 16,000 square feet of Tstrata’ CSS V-Wrap™ System was installed across structural elements, increasing both shear and flexural capacity.
