BE combines our extensive experience across a diverse range of past projects, each with unique scopes and challenges, with cutting-edge software tools to analyze and design exceptional conditions. By merging our past expertise with the latest technologies, we develop innovative design solutions that bring bold and awe-inspiring architectural visions to life.
We offer full service structural engineering consulting, supporting every phase of your project, from schematic design to construction completion. Our team works with advanced tools such as AutoCAD and Revit to collaborate effectively with other design professionals and create comprehensive construction documentation.
• In addition to our expertise in engineered wood and structural steel, common on most projects on the East End, we have also successfully completed several projects incorporating mass timber and CLT elements.
• Foundation design, including soil bearing capacity analysis to determine the need for spread footings or, when necessary, grade beams and pile support (timber or helical). For projects with close proximity to groundwater, we also specialize in designing waterproof hydrostatic basements.
• Design of the Main Wind Force Resisting System – which must be considered when designing any home, but is especially critical for ocean front projects with higher than normal wind forces. We utilize a combination of Wood Shear Walls, Simpson Strong Walls, and Steel frames – depending on architectural allowances
With extensive experience, we understand the challenges of integrating existing and proposed conditions. Older homes often have smaller framing and irregularities, making modern floor plans and MEP routing difficult, which can affect structural integrity. We’ve developed solutions for a range of renovations, from small expansions to large historical renovations.
• Simpler renovations/additions including projects such as interior floor plan modifications (removal of walls/larger openings), kitchen additions, etc.
• Major historical renovations which highly scrutinized by town boards. We can assist from the beginning phases and help you maneuver through the initial town reviews, design, and construction
• Design/coordination of new foundation plans & details under lifted homes to meet FEMA compliance
We’ve collaborated with leading installers and environmental consultants on a wide variety of projects, establishing ourselves as local experts in coastal engineering.
• Design of docks, bulkheads, stone revetments, breakwaters, boat ramps, and more
• Development of design plans and comprehensive reports that outline design considerations and wave force predictions for town/DEC approval. Use of ACES and CEDAS software for storm prediction and designing critical elements.
Most of our inspections are handled under or construction administration scope, for a project that we have designed.
However, we also offer stand alone inspections on existing houses, damage found by owners (concrete cracking, floor sag, etc.), etc.
• Formal inspection reports can also be produced and stamped by BE
On many projects, accessory buildings and structures are essential to complete the elegance of the overall site and landscape design. We specialize in designing these elements to match the main house's quality, ensuring the entire property meets expectations.
• Pool houses, detached garages, and similar structures
• Swimming pools (traditional on-grade construction or pile-supported when needed)
• Retaining walls, including concrete, CMU, and sheet pile
• Entry gate footing design
• Support for exterior artwork (foundations and connections)
The primary framing of the building is addressed during our "Design Development" phase, but many other architectural features require engineering to ensure the home operates at its highest potential. We provide 3D analysis and design for these unique elements to guarantee both safety and performance.
• Monumental staircases – such as open tread mono stringers, cantilevered treads, curved designs, etc.
• Structural mullion design for glazing assemblies – as required by the manufacturer
• Handrails: stiffener steel posts and connections – as specified by the manufacturer
• Support for larger light fixtures – including additional framing and connection specifications
Oversight of construction, ensuring design intent is followed in the field.
• Inspections (rebar, foundation, steel, framing are most typical)
• Shop drawing review (steel and concrete shops)
• General coordination with builder and architect regarding RFIs and submittals
We offer full service mechanical engineering consulting. Our team works with cutting edge software to determine the heating and cooling loads for the home. This allows us to design the equipment and ducts to keep the home comfortable while not over estimating equipment count and tonnage, saving install costs.
• Variable speed air handlers
• Minisplit systems for very specific zoning
• Geothermal equipment specs and well locations on site
• Radiant floor heating
• Coordination with structural framing