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Engineering Mythbusters: Structural Design Myths You Should Stop Believing

  • Soumen
  • June 18, 2025
  • 9:54 am

Walk into any AEC office, and you will hear the same “truths” repeated project after project. “Make the slab denser—it is safer.” “Proportional structures are always more stable.” “BIM will notice everything.” Sound acquainted?

These speculations have been passed down through the ages of engineers and architects, much like family recipes—except that a few of these formulas are obsolete, costly, and occasionally destructive. The built conditions deserve better than layout decisions based on yesterday’s constraints.

Today’s structural engineers have powerful tools that were unthinkable just twenty years ago. Parametric modeling, AI-assisted design, and coordinated Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms have transformed what is possible in design. Yet numerous teams still default to the same old rules of thumb.

Design support specialists help companies in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) sector break free from old thinking. Firms like Uppteam bring new ideas and careful analysis to projects that might otherwise just repeat familiar patterns.

The Myths That Need to Perish

Myth #1: Thicker Slabs Always Mean Better Structural Integrity

Let us start with, perhaps, the most expensive myth in structural design.

Here is what happens: 

Slab viscosity is just one variable in a complicated equation. What are the fundamental drivers of structural performance? Load distribution, reinforcement strategy, material properties, and span geometry. Automatically defaulting to dense slabs is like purchasing the most expensive car, believing it is the fastest—you are probably just paying for features you do not need.

A 12-inch slab carrying the same loads as an optimized 8-inch slab with strategic reinforcement. The thicker slab costs more in materials, creates unnecessary self-weight (often requiring beefier foundations), and steals precious ceiling height that MEP engineers desperately need.

The real-world impact hits three ways:

  • Budget pain: Material costs spike and that extra concrete adds embodied carbon that sustainability consultants will flag
  • Coordination chaos: MEP teams suddenly find themselves fighting for vertical space, leading to coordination conflicts that ripple through the entire project
  • Redesign nightmares: When floor-to-floor heights don’t work, someone’s going back to the drawing board—and it is expensive

Modern structural analysis tools can optimize slab thickness down to the square foot. Why guess when you can calculate?

What to do instead:

  • Run your loads through FEM analysis before picking the thickness
  • Test multiple reinforcement strategies parametrically
  • Get MEP input early—they’ll thank you later

Myth #2: All Buildings Should Be Symmetrical for Stability

This one drives architects crazy, and for good reason.

Symmetry certainly makes structural analysis easier—no argument there. However, simpler does not always equate to superior, and it certainly does not imply it’s essential. Numerous renowned structures in the world abandon symmetry yet still maintain complete stability.

Take Beijing’s closed-circuit television headquarters. That crooked, interconnected form appears to defy physics, yet it is engineered to withstand everything from wind loads to seismic activity. How? Advanced modeling, strategic mass distribution, and careful load path design.

The hidden costs of symmetry obsession:

  • Creative limitations: Architects get boxed into forms that may not serve the building’s actual function
  • Market disadvantage: Distinctive, asymmetrical buildings often command premium rents and sales prices
  • Missed opportunities: Sometimes, the most efficient structural solution is inherently asymmetrical

Here’s the thing about modern structural software—it doesn’t care if your building looks like a crystal or a cube. It calculates loads, analyzes deflections, and optimizes member sizes based on physics, not aesthetics.

The smart approach:

  • Use advanced load modeling to understand how forces move through asymmetrical forms
  • Consider tuned mass dampers or strategic bracing for complex geometries
  • Run dynamic analysis early, not as an afterthought

Myth #3: Concrete Structures Do Not Require Flexibility in Design

This misinterpretation has probably provoked more long-term concerns than any other on this list.

Concrete’s compressive resilience is legendary—it is why we have been building with it for over a century. At the same time, that same strength becomes a weakness when concrete cannot accommodate movement. Seismic activity, thermal expansion, and accommodation—all of these create pressure that rigid concrete structures handle poorly.

The result? Cracks, spalling, and supervision problems can affect a building for many years. For example, one major hospital project exhibited severe cracking within five years because the original design team believed that concrete could withstand thermal movement without the use of special expansion joints.

Where inflexibility hurts most:

  • Seismic zones: Inflexible concrete constructions can fail catastrophically during earthquakes
  • Future adaptability: Retrofitting inflexible structures for new loads or systems is often impossible
  • Large spans: Thermal expansion becomes a significant factor in buildings over 200 feet long

The modern concrete design embraces flexibility through strategic detailing. Post-tensioning systems, fiber reinforcement, and base isolation—these are no longer exotic technologies. They are standard tools for creating concrete structures that can adapt and endure.

Practical flexibility strategies:

  • Plan expansion joints every 200-300 feet in large structures
  • Specify fiber-reinforced concrete for high-stress applications
  • Consider base isolation in seismic regions

Myth #4: BIM Automatically Fixes All Design Errors

BIM has revolutionized the AEC industry, but it is not magic.

The promise of BIM—better coordination, fewer conflicts, streamlined workflows—is real. However, somewhere along the way, many teams began treating BIM software as an omniscient design assistant that would catch every mistake and optimize every decision.

That is not how it works. BIM is mighty for visualization, coordination, and documentation. It can flag when a beam conflicts with a duct or when door schedules don’t match floor plans. However, it cannot verify whether your load assumptions are accurate or whether your connection details will function adequately in the field.

One mid-rise commercial project learned this lesson the hard way. Their BIM model looked perfect—no clashes, beautiful renderings, and coordinated systems. However, because nobody questioned the structural assumptions embedded in the model, they ended up with undersized beams that required reinforcement during construction.

Where BIM falls short:

  • Engineering judgment: Software cannot replace a fundamental understanding of structural behavior
  • Code compliance: Automated checks catch evident violations but miss nuanced requirements
  • Constructability: A model might coordinate perfectly, but be impossible to build efficiently

Less BIM is not the reply—smarter BIM is:

  • Establish clear validation protocols that combine automated checks with human oversight
  • Regular design reviews that question assumptions, not just coordination
  • Quality control processes that verify both virtual and physical feasibility

Myth #5: Prefabricated Components Don’t Allow Design Flexibility

This myth costs the industry millions in lost efficiency every year.

The old image of prefabrication—rigid, standardized components that force compromise—hasn’t been accurate for at least a decade. Today’s prefab systems use parametric design tools and digital fabrication techniques that can accommodate significant customization while maintaining the speed and quality advantages of factory production.

A recent stadium project demonstrates this perfectly. The design team needed complex roof trusses with varying geometries to match the architectural form. Instead of defaulting to stick-built construction, they worked with a prefab manufacturer to create parametrically designed modules. Each truss was unique, but all were manufactured to precise tolerances in controlled conditions.

The result? Thirty percent faster installation, better quality control, and the ability to make minor field adjustments when needed.

Why teams avoid prefab (and why they shouldn’t):

  • Flexibility fears: Modern prefab systems can accommodate significant variation
  • Quality concerns: Factory conditions typically produce better results than field construction
  • Integration challenges: Early coordination with prefab suppliers solves most issues

Making prefab work:

  • Engage prefab suppliers during design development, not after
  • Use parametric tools to balance standardization with customization
  • Plan for modular coordination from the beginning

Real Projects, Real Lessons

When Thick Slabs Backfire

A combined-use project in Seattle serves as an ideal example of excessive slab design. The structural team, playing it safe, specified uniform 10-inch slabs throughout the building. The logic seemed sound—thick slabs would handle any loading scenario.

But post-occupancy analysis revealed the reality. Most areas were significantly over-designed, resulting in a waste of approximately 12% of the concrete volume. More problematically, the extra thickness created coordination issues with the HVAC system, forcing ductwork into smaller spaces and creating pressure drop issues that increased energy costs.

A subsequent parametric analysis revealed that a variable slab thickness—ranging from 8 to 10 inches, based on actual loads—would have saved money and improved building performance.

Asymmetry Done Right

An architecture firm designing a high-end residential tower faced pushback from consultants who wanted to “regularize” the building’s distinctive twisted form. The architects pushed back, working with structural specialists to model the complex load paths created by the asymmetrical geometry.

The solution involved offset structural cores, strategic mass distribution, and carefully tuned bracing systems. The result was a building that met all performance criteria while maintaining its architectural integrity. Bonus: The unique shape warranted a higher price that more than compensated for the extra engineering work.

Prefab Success Story

A sports arena project initially planned for conventional steel construction changed course when the team discovered that prefabricated roof trusses could be parametrically designed and manufactured off-site. Despite initial concerns about flexibility, the system allowed for significant customization while reducing construction time by 30%.

Each truss was unique, manufactured to precise tolerances, and designed for efficient installation and assembly. Minor field adjustments were possible but rarely necessary due to the accuracy of the prefab process.

The Technology that is Changing Everything

AI Gets Real About Design

AI (artificial intelligence) has moved beyond the hype phase in structural design. Today’s AI tools can analyze thousands of design iterations, identify patterns in structural failures, and flag potential issues that might escape human attention.

However, here’s what AI does best—it handles the tedious analysis that allows engineers to focus on creative problem-solving. Instead of spending hours manually checking load paths, engineers can explore more design alternatives and optimize performance across multiple criteria simultaneously.

Parametric Design Unleashed

Parametric modeling has democratized design optimization. What once required specialized software and extensive training can now be done by any engineer comfortable with standard design tools.

The power is not just in optimization—it is in exploration. Parametric tools enable design teams to test assumptions, explore alternatives, and understand the relationships between various design variables. Want to know how changing beam depth affects deflection, cost, and mechanical coordination? Run the analysis and find out.

Collaboration Without Compromise

Modern collaboration platforms address the ongoing challenge of working together while maintaining creativity. With shared models, real-time updates, and integrated workflows, teams can make structural decisions across different fields without compromising the design intent.

To ensure effective communication and validation of changes, it is essential to establish clear protocols. Technology helps us work together, but it is the human processes that make this collaboration successful.

A Different Way Forward

Stop Defaulting to “Safe”

The most significant barrier to better structural design is not technology—it is culture. Many teams default to conservative assumptions, not because they’re actually safer but because they’re familiar. Thick slabs, symmetrical forms, rigid concrete details—these approaches feel secure because they’re predictable.

However, predictability is not always optimal. Sometimes, the “safe” choice creates new problems or misses opportunities for better performance. Absolute safety comes from understanding the forces at work and designing accordingly.

Embrace Calculated Risks

This doesn’t mean throwing caution to the wind. It means using analysis to understand where conservative assumptions are justified and where they’re wasteful. Modern tools can model complex scenarios with unprecedented accuracy—use that capability.

Partner with Specialists

Not every business needs to evolve into an expert in every facet of cutting-edge structural design. Sometimes, the most visionary approach is partnering with professionals who can bring distinctive expertise to demanding assignments.

Design support firms like Uppteam excel at bridging the crevice between design purpose and structural truth. They obtain analytical rigor, software expertise, and reinvigorated viewpoints that can convert good designs into great ones.

The Bottom Line

Structural design is evolving more rapidly than many firms can keep pace with. The tools we have today would have seemed impossible a generation ago. However, they are only helpful if teams are ready to question old beliefs and try new methods.

The myths we have discussed—dense slabs, proportional buildings, hard-and-fast concrete, BIM as a cure-all, and limited prefab—prevail because they feel safe. However, safe is not always smart, and smart is not always apparent.

The firms that thrive in today’s market will be those that combine unconventional analytical tools with rudimentary engineering judgment. They will question hypotheses, test alternatives, and partner with experts when needed. Most significantly, they will recognize that the best structural design is not about following rules—it is about understanding forces and responding intelligently.

The built environment deserves structures that are not just safe and efficient but optimized for their specific context and purpose. That level of performance requires moving beyond myths and embracing the analytical power available today.

Time to stop repeating old truths and start creating new ones.

The Role of Shop Drawings in Construction: A Comprehensive Guide

  • Soumen
  • March 27, 2025
  • 1:16 pm

Shop drawings are crucial to the construction process. They are detailed technical documents that provide precise information on how various building elements should be fabricated, assembled, and installed. 

To develop shop drawings from point cloud data for Building Information Modeling, designers begin by capturing the existing structure using a laser scanner. Some companies partner with point cloud BIM services providers with in-house experts to read the cloud data and convert it into BIM models, which are 3D construction models. The details of the drawings depend on the client’s requirements. 

Unlike architectural drawings, which emphasize overall design and aesthetics, shop drawings focus on specific construction details, ensuring that every element fits seamlessly into the broader project. 

Whether constructing a high-rise tower or a small residential building, shop drawings serve as the roadmap for contractors, engineers, fabricators, and installers. These drawings bridge the gap between design and practical execution, ensuring that the final structure aligns with the original vision while maintaining structural integrity and compliance with industry standards.

Purpose and Importance of Shop Drawings

Shop drawings play a crucial role in construction by:

  • Providing Clarity: They translate design concepts into actionable, practical instructions for fabrication and assembly.
  • Ensuring Accuracy: Precise measurements, materials, and construction details help prevent errors and reduce costly rework.
  • Enhancing Coordination: Top BIM services providers in the USA look for shop drawings, which facilitate seamless collaboration among architects, engineers, contractors, and suppliers.
  • Improving Efficiency: Detailed instructions help streamline production, minimize delays, and optimize resources.
  • Supporting Quality Control: Shop drawings include specifications and compliance details, ensuring that the final construction meets regulatory and contractual requirements.

Shop drawings become indispensable for large-scale complex projects involving custom components. They help maintain consistency across teams and trades, ensuring that each element integrates properly within the overall structure.

Components of Shop Drawings

A well-prepared shop drawing contains the following key elements: appropriate Dimensions—Exact measurements of each component to ensure proper fitting within the project. Every detail, from length, width, and height to tolerances and allowances, must be precisely documented to prevent errors during fabrication and installation. These dimensions ensure that the components integrate seamlessly with other structural elements.

  • Material Specifications—Details on materials, including type, grade, and finish. Material selection is critical to the project’s structural integrity, durability, and aesthetics. Companies often outsource BIM services, as shop drawings projects provide information on material properties such as t, corrosion resistance, fire ratings, and sustainability considerations. This helps ensure that all components comply with industry standards and project requirements.
  • Construction Techniques – Assembly instructions outlining fabrication methods and installation procedures. These instructions provide insights into how components will be manufactured, cut, welded, or assembled. For example, steel shop drawings may specify the type of welding technique required, while millwork drawings may detail joinery methods such as mortise and tenon or dovetail joints.
  • Connections & Joints – Information on how different parts will be attached (e.g., welding, bolting, fastening methods). The effectiveness of these connections directly impacts structural stability and performance. Shop drawings indicate the placement of bolts, screws, anchors, and welds, ensuring that each connection aligns with safety and strength standards.
  • Field Measurements – Site-specific dimensions to account for real-world conditions. Unlike standard design dimensions, field measurements ensure that prefabricated components fit correctly within the construction site’s existing conditions. This is particularly crucial for renovations or retrofitting projects where existing structures may not align perfectly with design drawings.
  • Coordination Details – Building Information Modeling support providers show the interaction points between structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Shop drawings illustrate how various building elements work together, preventing system clashes. For example, they help avoid conflicts where HVAC ducts might interfere with steel beams or plumbing pipes might cross electrical conduits. Coordination details ensure a streamlined construction process with minimal delays and modifications.
  • Finish Details—Surface treatments, coatings, and other finishing specifications. Proper finishing techniques often determine a component’s final appearance and durability. These may include paint, powder coatings, anodization, sealing, or polishing. Specifying the correct finishing details in shop drawings helps achieve the desired aesthetic and functional results while complying with project requirements.
  • Assembly Drawings—These are Step-by-step visual instructions for on-site assembly. They include exploded views, sequencing diagrams, and detailed labels to guide installers in putting together complex components. Assembly drawings are crucial for prefabricated and modular construction elements, where efficiency and accuracy in assembly directly impact project timelines.
  • Compliance Information – Regulatory standards and project specifications for quality assurance. This section ensures that all shop drawings adhere to building codes, safety regulations, and industry best practices. Compliance information may reference ASTM standards, ISO guidelines, or local building regulations. Proper documentation of compliance minimizes risks, ensures legal adherence, and enhances overall project integrity.

Who Creates Shop Drawings?

Top BIM services provider in the USA prepare shop drawings on behalf of:

  • Architects & Engineers – Provide design intent and approve shop drawings for compliance.
  • Drafters & BIM Specialists – Utilize CAD and BIM tools to create detailed drawings.
  • Contractors & Fabricators – Develop shop drawings based on design documents and field conditions.
  • Specialized Consultants – Ensure accuracy in complex projects, particularly for MEP and structural elements.

Creating shop drawings requires collaboration between multiple stakeholders to ensure accuracy, compliance, and the construction Shop Drawing Process.

The process of creating and utilizing shop drawings involves several critical steps, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and seamless coordination in construction projects:

  1. Reviewing Design Documents—The process begins with a thorough review of architectural and engineering plans. These documents provide the foundation for shop drawings, ensuring a thorough review of the intended design. This step helps identify any missing information or inconsistencies before drafting begins.
  2. Field Measurements & Site Analysis – Before drafting, precise measurements are taken from the site to account for real-world conditions. These measurements help detect any discrepancies between the design intent and actual site constraints, ensuring that prefabricated elements fit correctly during installation.
  3. Drafting & Detailing – Using advanced CAD and BIM software, outsource BIM services providers to create shop drawings meticulously. These drawings—Outsource BIM services providers meticulously create shop drawings, including dimensions and material specifications, allowing for greater accuracy and integration of 3D models, making visualization easier for all stakeholders.
  4. Internal Review & Coordination—Once the shop drawings are drafted, they undergo a rigorous internal review. Coordination among architects, engineers, and different trade teams ensures that structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) elements do not clash. Clash detection within BIM tools helps preemptively resolve potential conflicts before construction begins.
  5. Submission for Approval – The reviewed shop drawings are then submitted to project managers, engineers, and architects for approval. This step ensures compliance with design intent, regulatory requirements, and industry standards. Any required modifications or clarifications are addressed before final approval is granted.
  6. Fabrication & Assembly—Once approved, shop drawings serve as a guide for manufacturers, fabricators, and construction teams. Fabrication teams use the drawings to manufacture the specified guides, while on-site construction teams follow the assembly instructions for accurate installation.
  7. Ongoing Revisions & Updates – During construction, adjustments may be needed due to unforeseen site conditions or last-minute design changes. Revised shop drawings help accommodate these changes while maintaining overall project integrity. Real-time updates through cloud-based collaboration tools ensure that all teams work with the latest version of the drawings.

Types of Shop Drawings

Point cloud to BIM services providers categorize shop drawings into several types based on the project’s requirements:

1. Architectural Shop Drawings

  • Focus on design elements like doors, windows, cabinetry, and custom finishes.
  • Include detailed instructions for material selection and aesthetic considerations.

2. Structural Shop Drawings

  • Provide specifications for load-bearing components like steel framing, concrete reinforcements, and structural connections.
  • Ensure compliance with engineering calculations and building codes.

3. MEP Shop Drawings

  • Detail HVAC systems, electrical wiring, and plumbing layouts.
  • Essential for coordinating between different trades and preventing clashes on-site.

4. Specialized Shop Drawings

  • Cover unique or custom elements like curtain walls, modular assemblies, and prefabricated components.
  • Require additional precision due to customization and integration with other building systems.

Common Mistakes in Shop Drawings 

Additional drawings are required to lead to significant project delays and cost overruns. Some of the most recurring errors include:

  • Missing or Incorrect Dimensions – Leads to fabrication errors and misalignment during installation.
  • Material Specification Errors – Using the wrong materials can compromise structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
  • Poor Coordination Between Trades – MEP conflicts with structural components often cause costly revisions.
  • Incorrect Connection Details – Bolt hole misalignments, incorrect welding specifications, and fastening issues can result in major on-site problems.
  • Failure to Update Revisions – Outdated drawings can cause inconsistencies in execution.
  • Scaling Issues – Incorrect scaling can lead to the fabrication of oversized or undersized components.

Thorough review, cross-checking with design documents, and using advanced tools help minimize these errors.

How Technology is Transforming Shop Drawings

Advancements in digital tools have significantly improved the accuracy and efficiency of shop drawing creation. Key technological innovations include:

1. Building Information Modeling (BIM)

  • 3D modeling enhances coordination and reduces clashes between building systems.
  • Enables real-time collaboration among project teams.

2. Automated Drafting Software

  • CAD and BIM platforms like AutoCAD, Revit, and Tekla Structures streamline the drafting process.
  • Reduce human errors by generating precise dimensions automatically.

3. Cloud-Based Collaboration

  • Enables remote teams to review and update shop drawings in real time.
  • Ensures that all stakeholders have access to the latest revisions.

4. Augmented & Virtual Reality

  • AR/VR applicational time visualizes construction components in real-world environments before installation.
  • Improves accuracy and on-site execution.

5. Digital Fabrication & CNC Integration

  • Direct integration with CNC machines and 3D printers allows for automated manufacturing.
  • Enhances precision and efficiency in component fabrication.

Conclusion

Shop drawings are a cornerstone of modern construction, transforming abstract designs into precise, actionable plans. By providing detailed guidance for fabrication and installation, they enhance coordination, improve accuracy, and reduce project risks. Uppteam, as a leading point cloud to BIM services provider, specializes in delivering high-quality shop drawings that integrate seamlessly with client workflows, ensuring precision and efficiency at every stage of the project.

With advanced BIM technology, automation, and a team of skilled BIM designers, Uppteam streamlines the project stages, minimizing errors and optimizing project timelines. As construction projects grow in complexity, the need for detailed, well-coordinated shop drawings becomes even more critical. Uppteam’s expertise becomes complex, accurate, and compliant documentation, making the execution of construction projects smoother and more cost-effective.

Structural Design Support Services

  • Soumen
  • September 29, 2024
  • 12:46 pm

Our Structural Support Services can enhance your structural engineering projects with expert support. From conceptual design to detailed drawings, our experienced team provides end-to-end structural solutions across commercial, multi-family, industrial, retail, and residential projects. Learn how we can support your firm’s productivity with high-quality, fast turnarounds and exceptional attention to detail. Download the brochure to explore how we can bring your next project to life!

Download Now

A Multifamily Project with Unique Structural Challenges in New York

  • arnab
  • September 28, 2024
  • 8:39 pm

Intro

Uppteam recently completed a multifamily residential project with unique structural challenges. Find out how, despite the complexities, the team successfully delivered the project, saving the client 10 days on their tight deadline.

Project Type: Multifamily Residence

Software Used: Autodesk AutoCAD, Trimble Tekla Tedds, and Microsoft Excel

Task Assigned

Based on the sketch the client shared, they wanted us to create load calculations and beam and column design.

Challenges

The most pressing challenge faced by Uppteam was the limited timeframe allotted for the 20,000 sq. ft. project. We had to complete it in very few days, which put significant pressure on the design team to complete the structural calculations and drawings efficiently.

A vital issue arose during the initial header calculations. Some of the headers were found to carry point loads from the roof, which can be more challenging to design and analyze than uniformly distributed loads.

These point loads required careful consideration to ensure the header’s structural integrity and prevent excessive deflection.

Solutions

We approached the project with a streamlined design process, focusing on efficient communication, collaboration, and utilization of advanced software tools to minimize delays and ensure timely completion. Uppteam successfully addressed these challenges through meticulous analysis and design, providing the client with a comprehensive foundation and framing design.

We did rigorous structural analyses to accurately determine the required header sizes and spacing, ensuring that they could safely support the loads from the roof.

Using BIM tools, we created detailed drawings and schedules for concrete wall foundations and wooden walls with wooden roofs. Based on the client’s feedback, our team members iterated on the design to ensure flawless final deliverables. Our structural design support team provided the client with a detailed design of the gravity and structural load effects system. With this approach, we completed the project in 5 days. 

Multi-level Structural Design for A Residential Framing in North Carolina

  • arnab
  • September 28, 2024
  • 8:33 pm

Intro

Residential framing is an essential component in a construction design project. Let’s understand how we achieved the design needs in this project.

Project Type: Residential

Software Used: AutoCAD

Task Assigned

The client needed support regarding the use of hangers, connectors, and screws to secure framing members. These joints and connections are vital in ensuring the structural integrity of the building.

Challenges

The structural design project was incredibly challenging for Uppteam’s structural designers because of its multi-level drawing requirements. The multiple levels can make the drawing appear cluttered and difficult to understand.

It was difficult to grasp how the levels connect and interact and to convey the purpose and function of each level clearly and concisely. Completing this project delivery in a week was a great challenge.

Solutions

Our structural designers created multi-layered designs to solve the visual complexity, making simplified diagrams. We also incorporated architectural input and generated a complete structural working drawing set simultaneously to meet deadlines.

Additionally, we used annotations and cross-sections to indicate the relationship between various levels and connections among structures. The labeled diagram our structural design team created with its specific purpose helped the client with concise explanations. Uppteam’s structural designers’ high-quality presentation was based on the CMU Wall Foundation and wooden walls with wooden roofs.

The design creates a comprehensive guide outlining the necessary elements, materials, and techniques to create a sturdy and durable framework for a home.

We explored various lumber sizes, such as 2x4s, 2x6s, and 2x10s, for framing walls, ceilings, and floors. These structural components form the backbone of the building, providing the necessary support for the entire structure. Besides, we focused on framing techniques such as balloon and platform framing, leveraging their advantages.

With these meticulous efforts, we could close this project of +30000 sq feet in less than a week.

Structural Design Support for A Residential Project in New York

  • arnab
  • September 28, 2024
  • 8:26 pm

Intro

An architect in New York partnered with Uppteam for the entire structural design of a large residential project spanning 25000 sq. ft. Want to know how we easily handled the complex project? Keep reading.

Project Type: Residential

Software Used: Autodesk Revit and Trimble Tekla Tedds

Task Assigned

The complex structural design task entailed creating a complete structural design for a massive residential mansion. The client shared the architectural drawings, including elevations, to ensure that our structural designs aligned with them.

Challenges

Although the initial design phase was not challenging, Uppteam’s designers encountered a coordination issue as this was an existing building. Additional loads for structural updates must be calculated before redesigning the existing structure.

Estimating the loads on the existing structure was challenging as the client wanted to upgrade the concrete basement with wooden walls and a wooden roof. In addition, the sheer size of the mansion posed a significant challenge to our team.

Solutions

The first step to handling the challenge was carefully analyzing the client’s requirements. Once our team analyzed the overall design, including the architectural and structural design connection, we started designing the roof, columns, basement walls, and foundation.

We had to divide the 25000 sq. ft. area into multiple sections while aligning each design to ensure faster completion and efficient design. Based on the client’s updates, the team of structural designers started working on the project, keeping the materials used in mind.

We also assessed the need for shear walls to ensure structural stability and calculated the buckling load to ensure the existing construction could withstand external loads.

The customer was pleased with our design outcome and appreciated the timely submission. Uppteam completed the task with only one iteration within 10 working days, which helped us gain client appreciation.

Top 10 Structural Engineering Firms in the US in 2025

  • ajay tribhuwan
  • July 12, 2024
  • 11:41 am

Structural engineering firms are critical in designing the infrastructure that supports modern buildings and facilities. These engineering companies form the backbone through their expertise, innovation, and contributions to the building engineering industry.

Each year, a few of the many companies rank at the top of the list based on their innovation, future-ready thinking, project management skills, and engineering marvels. We have compiled a list of top structural engineering companies in the US that have benchmarked their presence through their dedication to quality and project development.

Selecting these firms is not easy. Many companies perform well. However, a few are financially stable, have outstanding expertise, and are adopting digital changes. These companies often stand the test of time and perform well while enhancing their capability by properly utilizing resources. Many of these companies choose remote structural design service providers to reduce overhead costs while improving productivity.

Moreover, to these quantitative measures, we've also considered the structural firms' market reputation, ability to bid for design projects, senior management experience, and involvement in noteworthy projects.

Here are some of the top structural engineering companies in the US, based on the latest rankings and industry insights:

Wood / O'Donnell & Naccarato

The Miami-based structural engineering firm, formerly known as Douglas Wood Associates, Inc., has amalgamated with O'Donnell & Naccarato. The merger has expanded the company's projects and allowed Wood / O'Donnell & Naccarato to use resources to enhance its reach and national position. The company is now able to offer structural engineering services for architectural building design requirements to all the states in the US.

Wood / O'Donnell & Naccarato offers every service related to structural engineering, including structural load calculation, combination, and analysis. They also conduct resistance calculations and produce designs accordingly. The company adheres to US and international standards to ensure its designs are compatible with the globe.

Barron Civil Engineering

Owned and run by Professional Engineer Daniel Barron, Barron Civil Engineering preserves historic monuments by implementing structural engineering with architectural support. The company also conducts home inspections for prospective home buyers to ensure they invest in a structurally sound residential building.

The company is known for providing structural designs and conducting inspections. On the one hand, Barron Civil Engineering has created cost-effective and efficient structural designs for deep foundations like wells, bridge foundations, retaining walls, etc.

On the other hand, the firm has also conducted structural inspections for various commercial and industrial projects to ensure the integrity of the buildings. From inspecting building codes and standards to detecting conflicts in the designs – Barron Civil Engineering conducts inspection so the final project meets deadline and is error-free.

Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc.

While Milhouse Technical and Construction provides full technical services, it oversees building projects and specializes in structural engineering. The company has been in the industry for over two decades, offering worldwide solutions to complex structural problems. It is also committed to being future-ready with its innovative structural designs.

Milhouse Engineering and Construction provides conceptual drawings to its clients, allowing them to estimate each project's costs. The company has trained engineers who ensure the designs are US code-compliant and provide customized designs with unique features.

Texas Piers Consulting LLC

Although Texas Piers Consulting is a multidisciplinary firm, its specialty lies in structural engineering designs. Initially established in Texas, the company has expanded to Florida and Louisiana. Forensic structural engineering analysis consultation is offered by Texas Piers Consulting. It also helps its clients with insurance claims and property damage assessments.

Texas Piers Consulting houses experienced and skilled professional and structural engineers who combine their expertise and knowledge to offer exceptional support even for the most complex structures. With over 50 years of experience, Texas Piers Consulting ensures optimum reliability and accurate design support.

PSE Consulting Engineers

PSE Consulting Engineers offers various structural engineering services with its corporate office in Oregon. The company conducts lateral and vertical load analysis based on the building standards of the specific state. PSE also conducts foundation and framing plans, provides structural details, and creates other forensic investigation reports of a structure. Started and led by an Egyptian Civil Engineer, Nabil Taha, PSE Consulting Engineers started its journey in 1988 by overseeing, reviewing, and supervising structural designs. Licensed in 47 states, PSE now provides structural designs across the country and even in other countries.

BIMPRO LLC

Even though BIMPRO primarily offers BIM modeling, it has also established itself as one of the US's top structural and construction engineering service providers. Based out of Texas, USA, the company brings a fresh approach to construction design with its small team of engineering professionals.

BIMPRO focuses on ensuring that the structural designs are high quality while ensuring the building's safety. Hence, the company constantly seeks to introduce innovative ways to improve its design quality. In a short span, the company has established its position in the structural engineering industry through its values, which allow it to serve its clients in the best way possible.

Hensel Phelps

Hensel Phelps was founded in 1937 as a real estate developer. Now, the company is known for its extensive services in managing construction through its structural designs. The company also provides construction and facility management. By integrating BIM, Hensel Phelps helps companies mitigate risks, ensure proper collaboration, and increase efficiency. Abel Hensel Phelps, the founder of Hensel Phelps, started the company in Colorado. It worked on multiple commercial building projects during World War II. The company has been in the construction industry for the last 80 years, and structural engineering is one of its core areas of focus. Throughout its long and prosperous years, it has incorporated updated technology and software to stay relevant while providing the best service to its clients.

Tangent Design and Engineering

Sometimes, clients look for companies that offer structural, civil, and MEP engineering support. Tangent Design and Engineering is a California-based engineering company that brings multiple services to the table. The structural engineering firm provides all types of support a company may require related to structural engineering, from truss design and coordination to roof framing, foundation, shear wall, and other structural planning.

Quality makes Tangent Design and Engineering one of its area's most valuable service providers. The company has a dedicated quality assurance team that ensures the premium finish of its services.

Alpha Structural, Inc.

Alpha Structural is based in Los Angeles and has been operating there for more than 25 years.  It is one of the best structural engineering design services providers in Los Angeles. From foundational repairs to structural engineering designs, the company provides support at various levels. It is the only licensed structural engineering company in LA. The company has experienced engineering designers who provide design services to single-family, multi-family condos, community buildings, and more.

Alpha Structural has helped multiple projects with its critical engineering expertise. It offers greater efficacy while offering structural designs. The company believes in capturing the client's spirits through its comprehensive designs for commercial, industrial, public, and residential buildings, among other things.

Chandlee Construction

Chandlee Construction has been in the AEC market since 2006. While the company started with architectural building design, it also expanded to engineering services. With its commercial and industrial designs for departmental stores, studios, restaurants, and more, the company has maintained consistency and survived the recession.

Chandlee has been addressing the primary problem in the AEC industry, which is miscommunication. It has maintained its place in the industry by ensuring smooth collaboration and transparent communication with its clients. The company's designers turn their clients' ideas into 2D models and, with their approval, convert them into 3D renderings. Thus, they avoid miscommunication.

Industry Trends

The structural engineering industry has evolved significantly with technological advancements, sustainability, and integrated design approaches. Many companies have adopted Building Information Modeling (BIM), energy modeling, and smart building technologies to enhance efficiency and performance.

Others have started using updated tools such as AutoCAD, Autodesk Revit, Tekla Structures, etc. Thus, they ensure that the designs meet industry standards. While sustainability is driving the AEC industry, structural engineering firms also focus on developing green buildings. From maintaining environmental standards to meeting energy efficiency, these firms improve a building's overall longevity while maintaining its sustainability.

Conclusion

While the top companies in structural engineering are pioneers in the industry, many hire remote professionals to supplement their teams. Remote structural engineering design service providers, like Uppteam, work as an extended team, increasing the efficiency of their in-house engineers.

At Uppteam, we deliver complex yet code-compliant designs. Our engineering designers receive regular training on structural engineering software updates. We also keep abreast of industry trends, new regulations, and compliance updates.

One key differentiator for Uppteam is that we provide premium-quality structural engineering designs at a fraction of the cost. Our long list of satisfied clientele speaks volumes about our commitment to excellence. As a structural engineering firm, we understand the importance of innovation, quality, high performance, and sustainability in structural designs. Hence, our engineering designers augment a structural engineering team.

Structural engineering firms must focus on fruitful collaboration among various disciplines to ensure success in BIM structural engineering and modeling. Although the previous versions of Tekla fostered open communication, Trimble has improved its collaboration possibilities in these new advanced applications. As a result, engineers and architects can now deliver model information and required documents much more efficiently with a wide spread of supported industry formats. 

The AEC industry, a beacon of sustainability, is at the forefront of everybody’s focus. The more connected the various disciplines in an AEC organization are, the better outcome the workforce can produce. This industry’s commitment to sustainability is driving the need for increased efficiency, reduced material wastage, better resource allocation, and overall support for construction maintenance, making the role of engineering designers more vital than ever. 

With the newer version of Tekla 2024, the AEC industry can confidently ensure timely delivery within budget by improving its collaboration with stakeholders. This update confirms Trimble’s commitment to your success and the industry’s future. 

What the Tekla Structural Designer 2024 Offers:

Tekla Structural Designer 2024

The updated Tekla Structural Designer 2024 version has enhanced the 3D rendering support engineer’s capability to conduct a thorough Staged Construction Analysis. It considers the sequence of loading and construction to ensure a seamless automated process. Hence, engineers can apply the method to steel and concrete structures for a fast-paced outcome. 

The new version allows structural engineers to collaborate with other disciplines, such as MEP and architects, using reference models for better communication and enhanced compatibility checking. The implementation of this process minimizes the potential for conflicts within the design phase, leading to an overall improvement in the quality and success of the construction project.

The Improvements in Tekla Structures 2024:

Similar to Tekla Structural Designer 2024, Trimble has improved Tekla Structures 2024 to ensure engineers can complete their projects within budget and timeframe. The new update is especially beneficial for intricate geometric projects. Engineers can now access more instinctive modeling that allows them to complete a project with fewer iterations, which boosts productivity. 

Tekla Structures 2024 has an automated construction drawing cloning feature, improving the outcome for precast and steel unit drawings. The robust change in the software will allow more efficient and quicker delivery while ensuring error-free data transmission for structural engineering firms. The model is more in sync with the regulations and standards designers must follow for construction projects. 

Here are a few sections Trimble focused on to improve Tekla Structures 2024:

  • Supporting open standards: Enhanced industry alignment through open standards like BIM Collaboration Format (BCF) in Tekla Structures 2024 enables seamless communication of model-based issues with project collaborators at all phases. Trimble has enabled an extended and improved version of IFC property to support buildingSMART properties. 
  • Advanced offering for fresh licenses: With the latest Tekla Structures 2024, new license holders can now access three products for one permission or license. Users can access Tekla Model Sharing and Tekla Business Premium under one “Named User License.” As a result, users can now deliver projects faster while maintaining high-quality standards and accuracy using integrated updated BIM tools. 
  • Better collaboration: Tekla Structures 2024 improves collaboration by improving interoperability among third-party solutions, Trimble software, and hardware, leading to new integrated workflows. The updated version optimizes rebar geometry generation for better delivery logistics, site operations, and fabrication. Designers can now share accurate designs with the new data exchange feature with field and scanning hardware integrated by Trimble. In addition, Tekla Structures 2024 comes with Trimble Connect Business Premium, which allows users to improve their collaborative operations capabilities, such as model-based status sharing. 

Offerings from Tekla PowerFab 2024:

Tekla PowerFab is the ideal steel fabrication tool for engineers and 3D rendering support designers. The 2023 version of the software allowed designers to make visual changes, which enabled them to manage and estimate job costings. 

The new updated Tekla PowerFab 2024 offers better project management tools for designers. Architects and engineers not only keep track of the modifications they make but also organize their tasks much better. The integration of Trimble Connect BCF Topics allows them to change the order breakdown. 

Engineers and architects often work using different tools. A seamless collaboration of these tools ensures a project’s success. BCF Topics bridges the gap among various tools and establishes a seamless partnership. Using BCF Topics, project managers can simultaneously follow up and create reports on multiple projects. 

Tekla Tedds 2024 Updates:

Structural engineering designers rely on Tekla Tedds for calculations. The new, updated software version collaborates with Tekla Structures 2024 for seamless documentation and information integration. Thus, designers can produce more detailed designs built based on real-time calculations. 

With the new Tekla Tedds 2024 launch, designers will have access to libraries of structural calculations. They can either use the predefined calculations or customize them to enhance their capabilities. Thus, they can produce more reliable structural drawings much faster. 

Besides, since Tekla Tedds 2024 comes with integrated US building codes and standards, architects and engineers can produce flawless drafting following the regulations. 

Information Security Assurance:

With the updates of the various Tekla applications, Trimble has also focused on improving its security information structure. Trimble provides enterprise-level security to ensure organizations can keep their data safe. 

Hence, the company declared its Tekla products and their new updates to be ISO27001 compliant, the ultimate international benchmark for managing information security. 

Conclusion:

Trimble claims to be revolutionizing the Building Information Modeling (BIM) process for structural engineering firms by releasing different versions of Tekla applications in 2024. Tekla Structures, Tekla Tedds, Tekla PowerFab, and Tekla Structural Designer have all been updated to provide enhanced interoperability, collaboration capabilities, and cutting-edge technologies that accelerate the design and construction process. 

These tools utilize open standards, integrate seamlessly with third-party solutions, and ensure compliance with industry regulations. As a result, they empower engineers and architects to deliver projects more efficiently, accurately, and sustainably.

In addition, Trimble’s dedication to enterprise-level security in accordance with ISO27001 compliance offers reassurance to organizations dealing with sensitive data. Since the AEC industry is rapidly shifting toward sustainable practices, Trimble’s new updates will work as a driving force. From structural engineering to architectural drafting, the advanced Tekla applications will improve the efficiency of the design process.