Our Services

MLA provides structural analysis, design, construction documents and consulting during construction.  Our experience designing for a wide range of building types and construction materials, including concrete, steel, wood, masonry and post-tensioning systems, provides owners with an effective solution for their unique project.

Managing earthquake risk and meeting life-safety objectives is critical in providing for public safety.  MLA helps guide public agencies, developers, and homeowners to cost effective improvements by identifying the risks, prioritizing the areas of concern, and providing designs for mitigating structural deficiencies.  Creative solutions are especially important in meeting the aesthetic objectives required of historic building seismic improvements.

When building owners have visions of purchasing, expanding, renovating or just understanding their structures, MLA can respond with evaluations of the existing structure and concept designs for improvements.  We provide owners with the information they need to make good choices.  When financing depends upon a solid structural probable maximum loss (PML) evaluation, MLA has the experience and knowledge to provide a clear, well-documented report.

Many buildings have steep grades, unsuitable load-bearing or unstable earth that is susceptible to sliding, settlement, or liquefaction as a result of an earthquake, heavy rains, or other earth destabilizing conditions.  MLA works with the geotechnical engineer to develop designs that consider constructability, site constraints, reliability and risks, and soil conditions in developing the most effective solution.  We use our experience in designing temporary and permanent retention systems and foundations employing tied-back and gravity retaining walls; pin, soldier, or auger cast piles; helical anchors; drilled shafts; and reinforced earth.

MLA provides structural engineering reviews of projects to assist owners and agencies in getting more from their construction dollars.  With over 10 years of experience participating on multi-disciplined value engineering as well as constructability review teams, MLA brings owners the cost effectiveness and design benefits they expect from these peer review processes.