Thompson Markward Hall

Aug 06, 2020

Masonry Privacy Wall Reconstruction in Washington, DC

Thompson-Markward Hall (TMH) is a historic building that was built in the 1930’s, and continues to serve as a non-profit organization providing affordable, temporary housing for young women seeking to pursue careers in Washington, D.C. The building is just steps away from the Senate office building in a prime location on Capitol Hill.

Becht Engineering BT, Inc. was engaged by Thompson-Markward Hall to rebuild a partially collapsed masonry privacy wall. Our evaluation of the remaining wall indicated that the entire wall would need to be rebuilt to endure current code-prescribed loads, as well as the ability to introduce reinforcement and waterproofing for the entire wall. In addition to the structural aspects of the wall design, the wall layout, brick masonry units, and mortar submittals needed to be reviewed for approval through the Historic Preservation Office and by the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts. Our staff provided investigation, design, and bid services for this project. Additionally, Becht donated a portion of our time spent with construction oversight to TMH as they proceeded with construction.

TMH Executive Director, Jennifer Sharp, is delighted to have the privacy wall intact once again. “Our Board, residents, and staff are so grateful to the team at Becht, not only for their expertise and guidance through this process, but also for their generous support of our mission.” Learn more about TMH at their website: https://tmhdc.org.

Becht Engineering BT, Inc. is the one-stop shop for all of your building needs. Our professionals are experts in the fields of project management, structural engineering, building envelope systems, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection (MEP/FP) engineering, forensic engineering, and construction inspection services. Contact one of our professionals today at 800.772.7991 or information@bechtbt.com regarding your building needs.