Bluffton Centre
Project Description
Bluffton Centre is a multi-office medical facility designed to meet the growing demand for healthcare services in the Bluffton region. The project involves three buildings, each constructed with steel framework and open web bar roofing joists. The lateral system utilizes ordinary moment frames (OMF), offering flexibility for the current design and accommodating future architectural changes. By leveraging a keen understanding of codes, we were able to substitute OMFs for intermediate moment frames (IMF), achieving significant cost savings through efficient engineering.
The Challenge
The site presented the challenge of designing a multi-office facility in a region with growing medical needs, while also ensuring the building could accommodate future modifications. The building’s proximity to existing structures, as well as tight timelines, required a structural system that provided both flexibility and efficiency.
The Solution
Working in collaboration with the architect on the 29E6-Step Process, we recommended a steel construction framework with OMF to provide maximum design flexibility and long-term adaptability. This structural system was tailored to fit the specific needs of the medical offices, including ophthalmology and orthopedic spaces, while also saving costs. The mat slab foundation ensured stability, while steel joists and composite floor deck were used for efficient vertical load distribution.
The Improvements
By utilizing OMF instead of IMF, we achieved cost savings without compromising safety or future expansion. The use of steel framing and metal studs created a durable structure, while open web bar joists maximized usable space for tenants. Early coordination and charrettes ensured that the building could be completed within a tight schedule, streamlining construction and avoiding delays
The Results
The Bluffton Centre is poised to be a prominent healthcare hub in the Bluffton area, contributing to the local economy and enhancing the accessibility of medical services. The innovative OMF system allowed for a cost-effective and flexible design that aligns with the vision of Palmetto Medical Group, ensuring that the building meets both current and future needs
