Introduction
ONYX Constructors, General Contractors, recently completed a transformative demolition project at 2900 Weslayan, Houston. This endeavor involved converting a motor bank into a surface parking lot while integrating updated storefront and curtain wall access into a formerly connected adjoining office building. Spanning 37,840 square feet, the project demanded intricate collaboration between ONYX Constructors, Griffin Partners, Cherry Companies, and AMB Architects, overcoming various complex challenges.
Project Scope
The scope of this project entailed dismantling the integrated motor bank building, including the infrastructure, the main bank vault, canopies, drive-thru lanes, ATM areas, and the restoration of the building connection. A crucial aspect of the project was the safe and environmentally responsible removal of asbestos, showcasing ONYX's range of capabilities and their commitment to safety and sustainability.
Challenges
Limited Information on Utility Connections:
The task of identifying utility connections like power, sewer, and water supply was complicated due to limited information from the building's original 1980's construction. This necessitated thorough due diligence and innovative strategies to disconnect these utilities without interrupting office building operations.
Challenges included identifying the main electrical panels, tracing the sanitary connection, and locating the water line connection. These tasks required meticulous investigation and careful execution to ensure smooth disconnection.
Temporary Barrier Installation:
Installing a temporary barrier at the connection point to the attached building was a significant challenge, particularly given unpredictable weather conditions. The barrier, constructed using DensGlass and other weatherproof materials, was essential to maintain security and weather resistance until the new storefront and curtain wall system were established.
Addressing the Underground Teller Delivery System:
The presence of an underground teller delivery system necessitated strategic backfilling and the installation of structural barriers to prevent soil erosion and ensure the stability of the new asphalt paving.
Noise Restrictions and Working Hours:
Demolishing a building can be a disturbing process for those living or working in close proximity. Particularly as it pertains to noise. As a result, different areas of the city have specific parameters or working hours that regulate the timeframe each day in which excessive noise is allowed, or when a certain decibel level is permitted. These restrictions, which required a majority of the work to be conducted during business hours, combined with the disruption of tenants in the adjacent building required strategic planning not only as it relates to when to perform certain tasks, but how to execute those tasks in a more economical manner.
Removal of Existing Bank Vault:
Removing a bank vault with 12” thick walls and roof is a relatively simple process when utilizing heavy equipment and a hydraulic hammer. However, it is a disruptive method. Due to noise sensitivity with occupants of the previously integrated building, paired with noise ordinance restrictions, a different approach was necessary. After careful planning and coordination, it was decided this task would be carried out the old-fashioned way with manpower and chipping hammers.
Strategic Solutions
Extensive Due Diligence:
ONYX conducted comprehensive research and collaborated closely with utility providers to ensure seamless disconnection of utility services.
Precise Temporary Barrier Installation:
Despite weather-related challenges, the installation of a temporary barrier was executed flawlessly, ensuring both access security and weather resistance.
Structural Measures for Underground Systems:
Implementing structural solutions for the underground teller delivery system was key to stabilizing the new lot and ensuring safety.
Problem Solving Under Restrictive Noise Parameters:
Careful planning, coordination, and teamwork were essential in mitigating disruptive noise levels and determining the methods in which more disturbing tasks are carried out without sacrificing schedule and budget.
Additional Items Of Note
Preliminary Abatement and Demolition Process:
Texas regulations necessitated a 10-day notification before demolition or asbestos abatement, ensuring adherence to environmental and safety standards.
Asbestos Abatement Steps and Procedures:
A licensed abatement group conducted a comprehensive survey and air monitoring throughout the asbestos removal process, ensuring a safe and compliant operation.
Maneuvering An Outdated Curtain Wall System:
The project required updating the existing curtain wall system with modern equivalents, involving careful selection and retrofitting to match the original design.
Collaborative Success
The success of the project at 2900 Weslayan is a testament to the collaborative efforts of ONYX Constructors, Griffin Partners, Cherry Companies and AMB Architects. Effective communication and coordination were crucial in navigating challenges and achieving the remarkable transformation of the motor bank into a modern, functional parking lot with enhanced office building access.
The ONYX Constructors' project at 2900 Weslayan stands as a shining example of adept problem-solving and teamwork in commercial construction and demolition. This successful conversion from a motor bank to a modern parking lot underscores ONYX's dedication to excellence and innovation in their field.
Chris Holland is the President of ONYX Constructors LLC, a Houston based General Contractor. You can contact him at cholland@onyxconstructors.com.
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