We selected shear wall locations to assist with acoustic isolation of the Herbst Theater from the balance of the building. Using nonlinear dynamic analysis, we designed new shear walls around the central core occupied by the Herbst Theater and new structural steel bracing across large skylights.

SGH used a performance-based approach to design seismic upgrades intended to protect life safety and assure damage will be repairable following probable earthquakes. In earlier studies, the City classified the steel-framed structure with terra-cotta-clad, concrete infill walls as having significant life hazards in a major earthquake. We helped the City manage the project, including seismic upgrades, repairs, waterproofing, interior and MEP improvements, and conservation of interior spaces and the building enclosure. Working with the City’s Department of Public Works, SGH served as the prime design professional, structural engineer, and building enclosure engineer. Until this project began in 2013, the building was continually used without substantial modification since opening in 1932.

War memorial opera house construction