Structural Engineering

For more than 20 years, VanderWeele Design Consultants, P.C. has been a leading Western Michigan structural design firm specializing in architectural, civil and site design, and real estate investigation claims.

Our three-member team of registered professional engineers combines for more than 60 years of experience dedicated to customer design satisfaction in steel, wood, masonry and concrete structures. Our resume of projects range from both heavy and light industrial, commercial and government buildings to religious and educational facilities—each with their own set of unique challenges and personalized solutions.

Flexible Design — Even on Paper

In structural design, we realize the importance of maintaining production levels during construction. This sensitivity compels us to offer our clients solutions that are not only structurally competent, but, whenever possible, fit within the parameters of the work environment—including physical limitations and timeliness.

A recent project for a paper industry client perfectly illustrates this company hallmark. In increasing the plant’s 10-ton output rolls from 60 inches in diameter to 120 inches diameter and 30 tons, the roll machine’s foundations, floor area and bridge crane system had to be upgraded to handle the larger capacity.

While still keeping the owner in production, significant changes occurred within the plant:

• Floor—Some floor areas were reinforced with carbon fiber, while others were replaced altogether. With a full basement full of utilities, this was not a small task.
• Machine foundations and bridge crane—The column and foundation systems were significantly strengthened, as the roof structure was reworked to provide additional clearance for the larger-sized rolls.

View our project gallery for more eye-catching structural design solutions.