Our Process

Good structural engineering is rooted in common sense. It is easy to build, efficient in the use of resources, and sensitive to the architectural vision. Yet the best solution isn't always the most conventional; rather, it addresses the overall needs of the project and emerges from a solid understanding of the owner's goals and architect's intent.

More traditional approaches, which compartmentalize the work of the architect, engineer, and builder, tend to produce solutions driven by unilateral assumptions. To overcome this information gap and achieve the highest-value solution, we strive for preschematic collaboration with the entire design and construction team.

This multidisciplinary approach can benefit all but the simplest projects. Major systems-mechanical, structural, and seismic-can be more simply and economically integrated. This eliminates the potential for clumsy detailing and improves overall efficiency. Typically, the earlier the collaboration occurs, the greater the advantages that result.

Integrated Value Engineering. For the owner, who has the largest stake in building costs, integrated value engineering is perhaps the greatest benefit of this early collaboration. In following this approach, the design and construction teams can arrive at a common basis for cost-saving solutions and make more informed decisions as the project unfolds.

A Systems Approach. Tipping Mar has evolved a systems approach to help the design team and the building owner understand the initial cost and long-term benefit of structural design alternatives. Working together, the design and construction teams develop a building-systems matrix that evaluates different solutions according to key parameters identified by the owner. This approach helps owners better understand the costs and risks associated with each alternative and make the best decisions throughout the design process.