Story

Claret, a prominent 127-residence Class-A building located in Washington, DC's Mount Vernon Triangle neighborhood, exemplifies meticulous construction practices and innovative problem-solving. From the outset, the project faced unique challenges, including the presence of a nearly century-old Heritage Tree, which demanded special consideration and respect throughout the construction process. To accommodate the Heritage Tree, the construction team drilled soldier beams with a short mast, enabling necessary excavation while protecting the tree's root system and canopy. This approach ensured the preservation of the tree while allowing for the development of the site. Additionally, the project encountered complexities due to adjacent structures, including a southern building with a shallow foundation and a western building with a deep basement. Excavation up to 25 feet deep adjacent to the southern building required underpinning to maintain stability, while the deep basement of the western building did not necessitate such measures. Addressing logistical constraints in the urban environment posed further challenges, with limited access points into the excavation and restrictions on tieback placement. Strategic solutions were implemented, including hand-dug and shored underpinning piers, hollow-bar tiebacks to the south, and internal structural steel bracing (horizontal wales, inclined rakers, and diagonals) with heel blocks. These measures reinforced the structure against lateral forces and ensured stability during construction. One access point in and out of the project, and the location of elevator and sump depressions, required careful planning and coordination to install the internal bracing to allow excavation and concrete construction. The successful completion of Claret underscores the collaborative efforts of the construction team, architects, engineers, and community stakeholders. Through innovative construction techniques and a commitment to environmental preservation, Claret sets a new standard for sustainable urban development. Steele Foundation's meticulous attention to detail, respect for natural landmarks, and innovative problem-solving make their engineering and construction efforts at Claret a compelling choice for recognition in the Metropolitan Washington Excellence in Construction (EIC) Award.