2026
Lake Forest Office Building Project
Strucco was called to address a critical structural issue at the Lake Forest office building, a unique complex featuring office spaces around the perimeter of a central open courtyard, all built atop a parking structure. The architectural centerpiece of the courtyard—a trellis system with large beams dating back to the 1980s—had begun to fail, posing a significant safety risk. Upon inspection, Strucco discovered the situation was far worse than initially reported, with the main support beam having sunk several inches and framing elements on the verge of collapse. Immediate action was required to ensure the safety of building occupants.
Strucco quickly secured an emergency demo permit and quarantined the area. The team implemented temporary shoring to stabilize the structure and prevent a potential collapse. Due to the interconnected nature of the failing beams, a custom clamp system was designed to reinforce the structure before carefully removing the compromised elements. Using precision engineering and custom hardware, Strucco safely dismantled the trellis system, including the infill panels and large beams, without disrupting the building’s operations.
Lake Forest, CA
Further investigation revealed that the perimeter glulam beams, which supported the roof, were also severely compromised. Strucco collaborated with structural engineers and a wood specialist to assess the damage and develop a solution. To avoid the extensive disruption and cost of conventional shoring methods, the team devised an innovative support system that utilized existing columns and custom brackets. This approach eliminated the need to shore through multiple floors, offices, and the parking structure below, saving significant time and expense.
Over the course of the project, Strucco replaced all failing beams with larger beams, ensuring the structural integrity of the building. The work was completed efficiently, with minimal impact on tenants, and the team even addressed additional drainage issues to prevent future problems. The project not only resolved immediate safety concerns but also set the stage for future improvements, including plans to enclose the courtyard by installing an infill roof, skylights, and fully enclose the courtyard.
