PROJECT ROLE

Structural Engineer

BUILDING SIZE

11,000 sq ft

STRUCTURAL SYSTEM

Structural steel framing supporting structural insulated panels (SIP) for the walls and roof. Lateral Systems include a combination of SIP shearwalls and steel brace frames.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The success of the Spire Climbing Center in Bozeman, Montana led them to purchase an adjacent lot and plan an 11,000 sq.ft. addition, nearly tripling the size of the original facility. The exterior design of the addition mirrored the shape of nearby mountains, while the interior incorporated large glass walls which allowed sunlight to enter the space and mimic an outdoor climbing experience. The addition also incorporated space for 50 ft climbing walls, a yoga room, expanded fitness area, party room, and expanded retail space.

The project presented many unique structural challenges including creating an over 50’ tall column free open space to accommodate the climbing walls, and addressing many irregular roof connections. The structure is composed of primarily structural steel skeleton supporting Structural Insulated Wood Panels for the walls and roof. The upper level is constructed of composite steel framing with careful design utilized to minimize vibrational disturbances between the varying spaces. The climbing walls were coordinated with a specialty supplier (Walltopia) in Bulgaria where they were pre-fabricated and then shipped to the project site.