Preserving a National Treasure in the Event of an Earthquake

A National Historic Landmark building. A limited budget. A fault line less than 5 miles away. These were the ingredients for the seismic strengthening and historic repairs of the Bernard Maybeck masterpiece. The wood and concrete structure was built in 1911 and has been a National Landmark structure since the late 1970′s. It is recognized as one of the most architecturally and culturally significant structures on the west coast. Our structural analysis revealed that while the building was structurally sound it was in danger of a partial collapse during a major earthquake. Degenkolb worked closely with Architectural Resources Group to design seismic strengthening in two main areas and roof repairs that would not greatly affect the architectural fabric of the structure but would create a significantly safer building. By adding more structural connections at the roof and beam areas throughout the two rooms, Degenkolb tied the building more closely together and enhanced its stability. Re-roofing and insulation repairs will lessen the damaging effects of weather intrusion. The work ensures that this historically significant structure will continue to weather the test of time, and our strengthening scheme preserves the architectural integrity of this 95-year-old treasure in the heart of Berkeley.

For more information about this project, please visit http://www.friendsoffirstchurch.org/index.html.