Allana Buick & Bers (ABB) was retained to perform a forensic investigation of a cracking problem that was occurring throughout the cement plaster on the exterior walls at Bannan Hall at Santa Clara University. ABB proposed leading a design-build process, using the Design-Build Institute of America's (DBIA) format, to implement the remedial solutions in an effort to meet the short three-month summer break window.

Constructed in 1991, this building is a three floor, 90,000SF structure that houses the university's civil engineering and mechanical engineering schools. The structure consisted of a steel moment frame building with metal studs and cement plaster cladding.

It was determined the cracking was caused by the lack of stiffness in the original design of using light-gauge metal-studded walls. ABB performed programming to determine project requirements and prepare design documents. Close attention to the design and construction schedule was required in order to expedite completion within the three-month window. Although Bannan Hall was closed for the summer, the adjacent law school building was still open for classes. This created a unique working environment where it was necessary for all contractors and subcontractors to keep noise to a minimum while implementing efficient methods of construction to meet the timeline. This project was completed before the new school year began. The total contract price was approximately $1 million.