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High rise peer review by H+O identifies $1MM+ in structure savings

This image may not display the actual project to keep the development anonymous.

Est. $98,000,000

Initial Budget

$1MM-$2MM

Total Saved

1-2%

Total Cost Reduction

MARKET SECTOR

Mixed-Use

STRUCTURE

High Rise

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Structure costs are not something structural engineers measure, making it impossible for them to understand the cost implications of the design decisions they make day in and day out. The reality is small, seemingly insignificant design decisions greatly impact the bottom line. With the H+O Cost Index, you no longer need to accept this blind risk. We leverage technology and cost data to inform structural design so you don’t overspend.

In 2024, economic conditions make it challenging for the pro forma of a high rise, urban development to pencil out. Consequently, many of these developments are on indefinite pause.

A confidential commercial real estate developer engaged H+O to conduct a cost study of the 378,000 GSF high-rise design, identify opportunities to save money and help the development move forward.

Designing a high-rise structure is a big responsibility, requiring technical expertise and elite engineering judgment. Public safety is first and foremost. Carrying that responsibility and working in a high-pressure, fast-paced market sector makes it challenging to monitor costs without the proper systems to support you.

Structure Savings Identified

  • Reduce post tensioned slab thickness on all floors by 1.5”
    • Slope (5) columns to avoid 12’-0” cantilever slab
    • Shift (2) sets of columns (1) parking space with minimal impact to floor programming above
    • Potential to remove (3) columns
  • Eliminate (1) of (2) concrete cores.
    • Add (3) concrete columns
    • Remove mat foundation under removed concrete core
  • Reduce reinforcing in the remaining concrete core
    • Replace select internal shear walls with shaft wall
  • Reduce foundation reinforcing by $70k+
  • Remove complex framing with 20” thick PT slab + overbuild.
    • Reduce labor and improve MEP distribution

Total expected structure savings between $1MM-$2MM, estimated to reduce hard costs between 1%-2%. Final savings pending cost feedback from general contractor.

Click “Review Existing Design” at the top of right your screen to get a risk-free peer review of the structure costs behind your building design.

 

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“H+O’s proactive communication and strong processes make sure key decisions are made on time, avoiding unnecessary setbacks and keeping projects on track.

We have confidence in H+O to not only deliver, but to think big picture, supporting long-term success beyond just one project.”

Keith Boyle
CUBE 3

“Just got a view of {the H+O Cost Index} first hand on a current project. Great tool!

Found some major savings with minimal impact to the overall design.”

Jonathan Quinn
RODE Architects

“I’m diving into his detailing to try to optimize and de-risk the plans + specs, but HE ALREADY DID IT!

2 thumbs up from me.”

Matt Calkins
TOCCI

“Their ability to quickly and creatively respond to inherent challenges we encounter in the field is so important to keeping my jobs on track and moving forward.  Their collaborative approach to design, with a focus on cost efficiency and buildability, is second to none.

I wouldn’t do a job without H+O on my team.”

Marc Savatsky
Choose Boston

“I have been fortunate to work with H+O on several wood-framed projects. I have found them to have a good understanding of how to effectively utilize offsite components in a way that brings great value to their clients.

They do a great job designing cost-effective projects that are easily constructed. I would give them a high recommendation.”

Tom Dixon
MiTek

“I can confidently say they’ve been an invaluable partner. They aren’t afraid to think outside the box, which has helped us optimize our structural designs and achieve greater efficiency on each project.

I highly recommend H+O to anyone looking for a reliable, innovative and collaborative partner.”

Rob Simmons
Cathartes