SOLUTION

The Willis Tower repositioning project involved a major addition at the base of the building and renovation of the lower levels. WJE’s work included a site survey and the development of a master fire protection and code compliance program, including analysis and solutions for the effects of (1) a change of use and the resulting challenges from greater occupant loads than the building was originally designed to accommodate; (2) fire protection strategy for a new five-level floor opening connecting the lower levels of the building to facilitate visual communication and pedestrian flow for new retail, entertainment, restaurant, and food court spaces; (3) accommodation of code-required occupancy separations while maintaining visual communication and pedestrian flow; (4) accessibility code consulting; (5) modeling of smoke flow; and (6) modeling of people flow. WJE prepared a comprehensive narrative description to assist the design team with obtaining approval from the local authorities and was prepared to seek approval through the formal alternate method using the appeals process, if necessary.

Of special importance to the success of the project was the professional relationship between WJE staff and the local building and fire department authorities—an essential factor for obtaining approval of the design concept.