Home2 Suites by Hilton
Wood-framed hotel with seismic soil mitigation
2019
Home2 Suites by Hilton
The Project
Design and structural engineering for a multi-story Home2 Suites by Hilton hotel in Beaufort, SC. The building utilizes a traditional light wood-framed system for the walls and roof, combined with strategically placed structural steel elements at the ground floor to accommodate large open areas such as the lobby and common spaces.
The Challenge
The project site presented a unique set of structural challenges, primarily due to its proximity to an area with potential seismic activity and a moderate risk of soil liquefaction. Liquefaction can compromise the stability of foundations during an earthquake, leading to uneven settlement or structural distress. Additionally, the architectural design required large, unobstructed spaces on the first level for guest amenities, spaces that could not rely solely on load-bearing wood walls for support. Balancing these seismic and architectural requirements while maintaining cost efficiency and construction simplicity was a key objective.
The Solution
To address both architectural and geotechnical demands, the structural system combined light wood framing for upper levels with steel framing at the ground floor. Steel girders and columns provided the necessary long spans and open layouts, supporting the multi-story wood-framed superstructure above. Foundation design incorporated ground improvement techniques and seismic mitigation measures to reduce liquefaction potential, such as densifying underlying soils and optimizing footing dimensions and reinforcement. Lateral load resistance was achieved through a combination of wood shear walls and steel moment connections, providing both flexibility and strength during seismic events.
The Improvements
Key improvements included the integration of hybrid framing (steel and wood) to achieve both spatial openness and cost-effective upper-floor construction. The foundation design directly mitigated seismic soil risks, enhancing long-term stability and minimizing potential settlement. Close coordination between the geotechnical engineer and the structural design team ensured all mitigation measures were practical for the site and construction schedule. Additionally, lateral load analysis was refined to meet seismic performance standards without overdesign, maintaining efficiency in material use.
The Results
The completed Home2 Suites by Hilton in Beaufort stands as a well-balanced example of hybrid construction adapted to site-specific seismic and soil conditions. The hotel achieves the desired open and inviting ground-level experience while maintaining structural safety and durability. The implemented soil and foundation mitigations safeguard the structure against potential liquefaction effects, contributing to a resilient and long-lasting hospitality facility.
