Transforming the Eastern Star Lodge into a Hotel

Abstract:

The Eastern Star Hall in Sacramento, California, is a century-old unreinforced brick masonry structure that faced significant deterioration after decades of vacancy. Listed on the National Historic Register, the building was purchased by Hume Development in 2018 with a vision to preserve its historic elements while converting it into a modern hotel. The project involved retaining three facades, entry lobby, mezzanines, and portions of the auditorium floor, while demolishing and reconstructing the interior to accommodate an eight-story, 128-room hotel.

The structural engineering challenges were formidable, particularly the sequencing of deconstruction and reinserting the new superstructure. Internal bracing systems were designed to stabilize the existing facades and lobby, using vertical steel trusses and temporary wood diaphragms because the site was bound by adjacent buildings and the tower crane. These systems were carefully integrated into the existing structure to allow for the removal of old elements and the installation of new ones without compromising stability.

The new structure features concrete-over-metal-deck floors with steel beams and columns supported on a mat slab foundation. The lateral system consists of buckling-restrained braced frames and shotcrete shear walls, designed to support both gravity and seismic loads. Special care was taken to ensure the new elements did not interfere with the existing unreinforced masonry walls, which were evaluated and detailed to resist their own inertial seismic loads.

The hotel opened in January 2023, offering guests a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. The project showcases the innovative solutions and meticulous planning required to adaptively reuse historic structures while meeting contemporary building codes and standards.

Bio:

Eric Fuller: With 38 years of experience, Eric Fuller began working with existing building evaluations and renovations very early in his career. As a member of SEAOC for 40 years now, Eric has expanded his knowledge of existing buildings through participation in the central committee and was a past chair. Currently, he serves on the state level committee. Eric has also served as chair of the Preservation Commission for the city of Sacramento and served on the commission for 13 years. Eric finds great satisfaction in reclaiming older buildings and preserving their character through creative solutions to complex problems.

In Person Schedule

Virtual Schedule

Note: Cancellations received after 5:00 PM on March 5, and individuals who register but do not attend, will be charged if attendance does not meet the restaurant guarantee.