Perspective

Staff Picks: Roger Heeringa

Staff Picks of Amazing Structures from Around the World

We asked our principals what their favorite structures are on Earth. This week, Roger Heeringa gave us his list of structures that shaped his approach to our industry. He came up with more than one example. Check out what he picked and learn interesting structural facts along the way.

Shanghai Tower: The outer façade of this 128-story tower looks like you took a typical rectangular tower, grabbed it from the top and twisted the whole thing 90 degrees. In addition to having a really unique architectural design, the tower does an amazing job of incorporating lots of very livable space. There are nine interior atriums, some of which are a dozen stories tall that have gardens, restaurants and 360-degree views. The tower was designed by Gensler, a design firm we’ve worked with on multiple projects.

Hyatt Regency Kansas City: This is a structure that sticks in my mind for the wrong reason. Two interior walkways collapsed in the hotel’s lobby in 1981, taking the lives of 114 people and injuring many more. I remember studying it in engineering school at Washington State University as an example of the worst case scenario. It taught me the importance of detailing and coordinating structures.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s “Fallingwater”: This is one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most famous buildings, and for good reason. It’s amazing how it incorporates its natural surroundings. As an engineer, it’s fun to solve challenges and find a way to achieve an architect’s unique vision. Fallingwater is certainly unique, and in recent years the reinforcing cantilevered concrete balconies have required upgrading. This speaks to the importance of considering the long term performance of the buildings we design.

About the author

Caleb Heeringa

Caleb Heeringa, Communications Coordinator | Caleb enjoys immersing himself in the A/E/C industry and informing audiences about DCI’s contribution to state-of-the-art structural development. Preferring a conversational style, he naturally narrates the firm’s design approach and project details to professionals in other industries. With a knack for adventure, he enjoys international travel and exploring the back corners of Washington’s wilderness.

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