Watt Hall of Architecture and Fine Arts

IMEG provided engineering services for structural improvements to the Watt Hall of Architecture and Fine Arts (WAH) building on the USC campus. Our firm initially completed a comprehensive seismic evaluation report of the two-story building.

Preparation of structural calculations and drawings to seismically strengthen the existing building in conformations with City of Los Angeles’ Ordinance No. 183893, Article 1, Division 5 – Mandatory Earthquake Hazard Reduction in Existing Non-Ductile Concrete Buildings was completed. Additionally, the seismic strengthen was performed to enhance the building’s USC rating from a level VI to IV or better.

Structural improvements for the 91,530-sf building included the removal, rerouting and/or re-installation of building utilities, replacement of interior finishes, casework and amenities, and addressing any code compliance issues triggered by the work (e.g accessibility improvements, fire/life safety system upgrades, etc.).