Welcome to Steele Structural Engineering

First Alliance Church

Erie, Pennsylvania

	Building Area:	21,500 SF
	Completed:	2000 - $2.3M

	Architect:	Weborg+Rectenwald Architects
	Construction Manager:	Solid Rock Consulting
	Fabricator/Erector:	Erie Steel Products
	Joist Supplier:	Vulcraft - St. Joe Division

First Place Winner

Non-Industrial Projects

2002 Diamond Engineering

Excellence Award

Structural Engineer

(complete article) (partial article)

Nucor/Vulcraft Group

National Advertising Campaign

Worship space is dramatic. Large volumes. Wide open areas. All too often the structures for these spaces are dark and forbidding. The overuse of massive glue-laminated timber arches tends to add a heavy feeling to space. In contrast, the First Alliance congregation wanted a light, open sanctuary; one that better reflected their relationship with God.

Longspan joists and an architecturally exposed tube tower combine to replace the more traditional church structure and form the unique roof shape. Above the ceiling, an extensive catwalk system runs through the joists rather than underneath - allowing the ceiling to be raised, maximizing interior volume and providing precisely the space the congregation envisioned.

While the building is impressive, the application of common materials to an uncommon form allowed the design team to arrive at an economical structure that will serve the congregation well into the new century. The reward at the end of the day is happy client and a First Place showing in the 2000 National SJI Design Awards.