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At Ozer Engineering, we take great pride in our role as a catalyst for transforming artistic visions into lasting structures. Our collaboration with renowned artist Cat Pena and the Downtown Memphis Commission has led us on an exhilarating journey to convert the temporary art installation "There's More to Be Proud Of," (which we designed with Ms. Pena in 2017) into a permanent fixture that will envigorate a key intersection in downtown Memphis. As we help the Artist bring this vision to life, we are excited to keep you updated on the progress of this transformative project. Transitioning from Temporary to Permanent: Our commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of Memphis drives us to work with artist Cat Pena to elevate the impact of "There's More to Be Proud Of." By transitioning this temporary structure, located at the corner of Marshall and Monroe into a permanent installation, we are proud to help create a lasting symbol that celebrates the city's artistic legacy. With meticulous attention to detail, and drive to overcome the many challenges of this unusual structure, we are developing the design to ensure the artwork's longevity, and serviceability, and integrate it seamlessly into a complex public space. Supporting the Artwork with Tensile Cables: To enhance the visual impact of the installation, Ms. Pena has added LED lighting to the permanent structure. To support these added heavier elements, Ozer Engineering is redesigning the tensile cables and custom support poles. The interplay of light and color will breathe new life into "There's More to Be Proud Of," captivating passersby and transforming the artwork into a mesmerizing spectacle, day or night. A Collaborative Vision: Collaboration lies at the heart of our approach. Working hand in hand with Cat Pena and helping her assemble a talented team of consultants and contractors, we are able to merge artistic creativity with technical expertise. With unusual structures like this one, finding the right people is paramount. By aligning with Ms. Pena's vision, we are able to push boundaries and achieve extraordinary results. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to develop this extraordinary endeavor together.

When purchasing a commercial or residential property, understanding its structural integrity is vital. Ozer Engineering, a trusted name in the industry, offers affordable and thorough property assessments in the Memphis/Greater Shelby County area. If an initial home inspector raises concerns and recommends further inspection by a structural engineer, Ozer Engineering steps in to provide detailed evaluations. Our assessments cover specific issues or offer comprehensive structural inspections, including site-related concerns like soil or drainage issues common in the Mid-South. With the aim of giving buyers peace of mind and enabling well-informed decisions, we work with local buyers, sellers, real estate agents, and property managers. When repairs are necessary, we provide clear instructions for the contractor, including repair details when necessary. Affordable and Thorough Assessments: Ozer Engineering understands the importance of addressing structural concerns promptly and efficiently. We offer affordable property assessments tailored to meet the specific needs of Memphis/Greater Shelby County buyers. Whether it's a specific issue flagged by the initial home inspector or a comprehensive examination of the entire structure and site, our experienced team provides comprehensive evaluations. Timely Reports for Informed Decisions: Recognizing the time-sensitive nature of real estate transactions, Ozer Engineering provides various reporting options to accommodate different needs: Same-Day Verbal Reports: To provide immediate decision-making advice, our experienced engineers offer same-day verbal reports. This allows buyers to receive real-time communication of findings, concerns, and initial recommendations, empowering them to make informed decisions quickly. Written Reports (Typically 5-7 Business Days): Our comprehensive written reports are typically delivered within 5-7 business days. These reports provide a detailed analysis of the property's condition, recommendations, and any necessary remedial actions. They serve as invaluable references for buyers, their advisors, and the contractors who perform the repairs. Expedited Reports: For those requiring faster turnaround, we offer an optional expedite fee. With this option, buyers can receive comprehensive written reports within 24-48 hours, ensuring urgent timelines are met while maintaining our commitment to quality and accuracy. Collaborative Approach and Local Expertise: At Ozer Engineering, we value our relationship with the local community and work closely with buyers, sellers, real estate agents, and property managers. Our team understands the unique challenges and considerations specific to the Memphis/Shelby County area, including current and historic construction practices and materials, including soil and drainage issues common in the Mid-South region. By collaborating with all stakeholders, we contribute to successful property transactions and ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction. Contact Ozer Engineering today to schedule your follow-up structural inspection and gain the confidence you need to make a sound real estate purchase decision.

This article continues our series on the Lowenstein Mansion project here in Memphis,` outlining the process from imagination to implementation to convert a bearing wall brick building, what we engineers call "unreinforced masonry," into a modern open-concept bright and airy co-working space...and doing it affordably by avoiding use of steel framing. Architect Andy Kitsinger's vision for this building was for the two-story 50' x 40' interior floors of the 1930 Annex to be clear spanning open space. This meant the removal of all interior lath-&-plaster sheathed studwalls on both floors. On the second floor, it also included removing most of the stick-framed ceiling in order to vault into what used to be the attic space. Opening up floorplans can greatly weaken these historic structures, yet it only makes sense for the new uses we imagine for them today, so it needs to be an option for historic preservation. Therefore this desire for open-concept space did not come without its set of challenges. One obstacle early on was that by removing all of the interior lath-&-plaster-sheathed stud walls, we would bring ALL the building loads to the perimeter historic brick walls. This would severely overload the already degrading, nearly one-hundred-year-old materials. Additionally, it would be a severe seismic hazard. So what could we do? A common approach is to use grouted CMU walls due to their economy and strength to resist both gravity and lateral loads, and that's what we did, installing a series of short, full height CMU piers around the inside perimeter of the brick. Next was how to tackle the vaulting of the ceiling. The roof relied on the existing ceiling joists to tie it together so it would not spread. To compensate for removing the existing joists, we created an inner vault under the outer roof, coupled to the rafters to reinforce each other. This vaulted ceiling would now serve as a hybrid roof diaphragm, in conjunction with the roof being the main diaphragm, to redistribute seismic loads to the new shearwalls and tie it all together. This ceiling framing design would have to be strong enough structurally to reach down along the old perimeter brick walls to anchor them where they are still strong. Aging unreinforced brick buildings in the mid-south are delicate structures, and the top of the brick walls of this building are crumbling, which is a common problem. Custom steel trusses were a strong option for the vaulted ceiling support but likely a budget killer for this project, and no doubt many others. So, we decided it would be great to stick frame this structural inner vault out of ordinary lumber and fasteners. This would allow for affordable materials, AND a framing crew could do it without bringing the added cost of specialty subcontractors. So, that is exactly what we designed. A stick frame vaulted truss framing out the ceiling feature, using 2x lumber, 1-3/4 LVL, and off the shelf metal hardware from Simpson strong tie. The integrated vault provides good anchorage for the old brick walls, distributes loads to the new CMU piers, and functions as a diaphragm to strengthen and stabilize the entire annex. This vault has become a central element in our design and is a wonderful example of structure integrating with architecture to create inspiring open spaces efficiently and safely. By going this route and not relying on a conventional steel solution, we were able to achieve substantial cost savings, provide a high level of seismic strengthening, and keep the historic fabric of the roof and eaves as well as the historic brick in place. This project is ongoing and we will link updates here.

In many parts of the country, including the mid-South, When renovating an older building, it is rare to strengthen it to the performance standards of new construction. The required strengthening tends to be a gray area, where an engineer has some latitude. We approach this case-by-case based on factors such as the customer’s needs, the age and condition of the building, historical precedent for similar projects, and any directives by the jurisdiction. Most older buildings have severe seismic liabilities that were not accounted for when the building was built. Add to this the reality that the brick, mortar, and wood framing have all deteriorated and may continue to degrade due primarily to moisture infiltration and trapping. Also, consider that the proposed renovation will further weaken the building by increasing or adding wall and floor openings as well as material weights. Or even just by removing the lath and plaster sheathed studwall partitions and opening up a floor plan, we are also weakening the structure. These changes may trigger strengthening requirements in the IEBC. Yet in our region, the design engineer and the governing jurisdiction often ignore these triggers. Is this what the owners and architects want? They are investing in a building, expecting that their investment is sound and that the building is safe. At Ozer, we have a high standard of care. We will only work on a building if we can include repairs or strengthening so that when the project is complete, the structure overall is a little stronger and more resilient than it was when we found it. Our rule is that when we are done, we leave a building stronger and safer than when we found it, even if we can't make it as strong as a new building. For example, removing a bearing wall to open up space may weaken the building because that brick-bearing wall serves as a shear wall. So we will add connecting elements to deliver the lateral forces to other parts of the remaining shear wall. Or we may need to strengthen other walls or as a last resort, install new shear walls. That's why we often give the owner a couple of options. The minimum option is it's a little stronger and more resilient than how we found it. The better option is we've fully implemented the IEBC requirements. In either case, the completed renovation can better handle an overload such as a big storm or small earthquake. And it also means we've arrested the decay; some older materials break down much quicker than modern materials. In particular, the old brick and lime mortar, if it's a brick structure. In other cases, deterioration of the wood or steel has begun, and we want to identify and address the source of the moisture intrusion or treat the wood, masonry or steel to protect it down the road. And this is sometimes a complex procedure. Sometimes we are on the defensive; the owner wants to do the bare minimum as they see it: remove the wall and provide gravity supports at the affected area. In such cases, we walk away from the project. For better or worse, other engineers will do the job just as he wishes.

Each time we are asked to work to preserve historic buildings or landmarks, we start by looking at the project from two different perspectives. One perspective is seeing the aspects of the project that are similar to working on new construction. The second is being prepared to foresee characteristics uniquely inherent to aging buildings, which other engineers may not be as familiar with and which may not be addressed by current Codes. The first step is detective work. That is solving the riddle of how the building was built and understanding the archaic materials and systems used and the effects caused by time and moisture. One example, we must understand cast and wrought irons and how they differ from each other and modern steel. Another is being well-versed in the properties and capacities of mortars, masonry materials, and wood products used for construction. Then we determine the extent of the damage and deterioration, the causes, how to mitigate them, and how to integrate and connect the new elements needed to restore it. The mid-South has additional regional challenges, such as requirements for seismic anchorage. Historically, construction materials used in this region of the country were not as high quality as in more industrialized regions. Also, there is a shortage of skilled craftspeople to provide the restoration labor. Budgets for any restoration work are typically tight as well. The buildings we strive to preserve here simply start off having less monetary value than those built in preservation-rich areas such as Chicago or New England. In the mid-South, we will lose buildings to immediate demolition or, more slowly due to substandard work if our proposed solutions are not cost-effective or not fully implemented. Even with this challenge, it is possible to find solutions that stand the test of time, and when we do, it is beautiful. We strive to find clients interested in quality preservation. We must work closely with architects, contractors, specialty craftspeople, restoration and repair industry experts, government agencies, and preservation-focused entities to achieve long-term results.

At OZER Engineering, we are excited to collaborate with Architect Andy Kitsinger, Wagner Construction, and the Town of Somerville on the restoration of a historical landmark located at 16750 CR 64 in Somerville, Tennessee. This pre-civil war brick building with wood floors that anchors the town square was a well-detailed major structure for its time. Over the years it has had a rich history of many uses including a hotel, stores, and doctor's offices. The Town of Somerville recently purchased the building with plans to convert it into a museum. As they began to plan their vision for the space, they noticed cracks and settlements. So, they called OZER, smart move! Our assessment found the interior brick to be second class brick with no weather grade, commonly used on interiors in the pre-industrial south, known locally as "salmon brick" due to it's orange color. This brick breaks down when wetted for long periods. All around window and vent openings, and adjacent to sidewalks this brick is rapidly breaking down and can no longer support the weight of the building. Collapse of the building could be imminent, especially if subject to a lateral loading event, such as even a small earthquake. A common solution is to tear the building down. But what to do with a historic building that's important to the community? Join us on our journey as we bring new life to this treasured building. Preserving History with Innovative Timber Solutions: We needed to come up with a repair solution that could keep the renovation within the town's budget. A big part of our ability to create an affordable design is utilizing a timber frame. Usually, this type of work is done in steel. However, not only does steel give an inauthentic look and feel to historic restoration, but also the cost is significantly higher. With our expertise in developing cost-effective timber solutions, we designed a complete internal timber frame, a new skeleton, to carry the weight of the floors and roof, along with new CMU shearwalls that will resist wind and seismic load. Retaining the Beautiful Historic Façade: We recognize the importance of preserving intricate brick facades. Luckily the exterior wythe that people see is made of a different, first-class well-burnt brick that has held up well and been maintained over time. Through careful planning and anchoring, the internal timber frame will separate the load-bearing responsibilities from the façade, so it will remain in place, but only as a non-structural façade and envelope. By sealing the façade and repairing the interior brick, and protecting it from moisture, the decomposition of the interior brick can be slowed so that this exterior skin can survive for several more generations. Updates and Progress: Due to the extreme fragility of the badly deteriorated exterior brick walls, including basement brick retaining walls, we have to be very careful not to destabilize the structure during the installation of the new structural elements. Each step of construction has to be carefully planned to allow partial demolition and excavations without creating instability. And all this has to be done on a tight budget foregoing the normal approach of steel framing, instead using timber and conventional wood framing, carefully tying together the existing elements, and bracing them all back to the new CMU shearwalls. We carefully evaluate the existing wood and brick materials and produce a custom repair procedure. Then using primarily off-the-shelf, low-cost clips, screws, straps, and anchors to stitch the new and existing wood and masonry elements together. We present these design details on a clear set of drawings that wood framers and masonry repair technicians are able to understand and implement. Amazingly we are moving forward with this full structural renovation. It is very rare in this type of building and one in this condition. We are able to accomplish this because we have an experienced team at Ozer working together with Andy Kitsinger and Wagner Construction to find the most economical way to implement and guide the project through. In July, we will post updates on construction progress.

Through a recent inspection at a galvanization facility in Arkansas, we uncovered significant capacity loss in long-span steel girders located above the galvanization baths. This finding underscores the need for proactive measures to mitigate corrosion effects and ensure the structural integrity of buildings. Discovering Capacity Loss in Long Span Steel Girders: During our inspection, we encountered a concerning issue: long-span steel girders had experienced a considerable loss in load-carrying capacity due to the corrosive effects of the galvanization process below. This corrosion, resulting from the emissions released during galvanization, had gradually weakened the steel, posing a potential risk to the structural integrity of the affected buildings. Mitigation Strategies: Our Commitment to Long-Term Durability: At Ozer Engineering, we believe in proactive and innovative solutions to combat corrosion risks. Through enhanced protective coatings, regular inspections, and collaborative efforts, we can ensure the longevity and durability of structural steel: Enhanced Protective Coatings: Applying advanced high-performance paint systems or epoxy coatings can act as an additional layer of defense against corrosion. These coatings serve as a barrier, minimizing direct exposure to corrosive emissions. Regular Inspections by Qualified Engineers: Routine inspections conducted by experienced structural engineers allow for early detection of corrosion and degradation. This enables targeted maintenance or repair interventions to restore the load-carrying capacity of affected steel components. Collaboration for Best Practices: We emphasize the importance of close collaboration between structural engineers, galvanizers, and facility operators. By sharing insights and experiences, we can collectively develop strategies to mitigate the impact of galvanization emissions on structural steel.

Memphis International Airport recently completed a renovation of Concourse B. This major project, led by architectural firm UrbanARCH, brought together a team of talented professionals to create a state-of-the-art concourse that seamlessly blends functionality, aesthetics, and art. One of the standout features of this renovation is an awe-inspiring art installation titled "Intertwining" by renowned artist Yancy Villa-Calvo. Under the expert guidance of Architect Brg3s and Ozer Engineering, the integration of this mesmerizing artwork elevates the airport's ambiance. "Intertwining": A Fusion of Art and Engineering As part of the Concourse B modernization project, Yancy Villa-Calvo's captivating art installation, "Intertwining" was incorporated. The art installation, inspired by the vibrant culture and soulful history of Memphis, showcases a series of intertwining metal ribbons suspended from the ceiling, creating a stunning visual experience for passengers. These dynamic, flowing ribbons represent the harmonious convergence of diverse elements, mirroring the unity and connectivity found within the city itself. At Ozer Engineering, we played a crucial role in realizing the vision of "Intertwining." We were enlisted to design invisible supports for the art installation. By ingeniously concealing the support systems, the artwork appears to be floating, creating a sense of ethereal beauty and wonder. We analyzed the structural integrity of the concourse to determine the optimal design and support systems for the art installation. We were able to find a solution that not only met the highest safety standards but also allowed Villa-Calvo's artwork to take center stage.