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Publications2018-08-01T10:07:16-07:00

“Elementary Structural Analysis and Design of Buildings: A Guide for Practicing Engineers and Students”
Pilla, D. (2016)
Taylor & Francis, Philadelphia PA;
ISBN 978-1-4987-7588-5

Authored by DRPILLA principal Dominick R. Pilla, the book offers an in depth overview of the analysis and design of buildings. It covers basic principles and elementary structural analysis to the selection of structural systems and materials, and on to foundations and retaining structures. Serving as a comprehensive guide and desk reference for practicing structural and civil engineers, as well as for engineering students, the book draws on Pilla’s teaching experience at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and his work as a design engineer and architect. It is especially useful for those taking the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying SE exam.

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“Spring 2015 Structural Anatomy of Buildings – Student Work”
Pilla, D. (2015)
2015 Self-Published Book

Developed by DRPILLA principal Dominick R. Pilla, this body of student work was established for students attending The City College of New York’s Bernard and Anne Spitzer School of Architecture to demonstrate what they have learned. It was designed to immerse students in the built environment and the evolution of design in order to consider effective structural solutions pertaining to architectural design constraints and other building systems.

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“Monitoring the Health of a Building During and After Rehabilitation”
Pilla, D. Vaccaro, J. & Wilde, J. (2015)
Structure Magazine

This article highlights the importance of structural monitoring during construction and demolition stages. Construction can often present potentially damaging risks to surrounding structures; this is especially true in urban environments where high rises are being erected in close proximity to existing buildings. Optical and vibration monitoring can be used as tools to alert the engineer of potentially damaging site conditions or construction practices and to provide valuable time needed to prevent or mitigate damage.

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“Horizontal and Vertical Enlargement of a “Sliver” Building”
Pilla, D. & Tong, X. (2013) & Wilde, J. (2015)
Structure Magazine

This article addresses lessons learned and industry best practices associated with the design of horizontal and vertical enlargements to “sliver” buildings. The term “Sliver Building,” according to the New York City zoning code, is specifically reserved for a tall building or enlargement that is 45 feet wide or less, in an R7-2, R7X, R8, R9 or R10 zoning district, such buildings are generally restricted to a height equal to the width of the abutting street or 100 feet, whichever is less. These unique and challenging sites often present issues pertaining to structural stability due to its narrow width when resisting lateral loads.

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“Evaluating Historic Structures for Adaptive Re-Use”
Pilla, D. & Tong, X. (2010)
Structure Magazine

This article shares insights on how a once abandoned manufacturing complex was transformed into a modern manufacturing and artisan workspace, while conserving original resources and historic value. Whether due to environmental reasons, land availability or the desire to conserve a historic landmark, countless developers are turning to adaptive reuse as a solution to some of the modern problems of the built environment. Built on poor soils with an adjacent subway, The H. Lawrence & Sons Rope Works Complex, located at 221 McKibbin Street, was in need of structural remediation and renovation. In collaboration with OCV Architects, our team helped developer Greenpoint Manufacturing and Design Center achieve their vision of developing a new sustainable and viable facility in an urban neighborhood.

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“Creating an Opening in Existing Floors”
Pilla, D. & Tong, X. (2013)
Structure Magazine

This article discusses basic principles that should be respected when considering creating a floor opening in an existing structure. It is not unusual to create an opening in existing floors during building renovations and alterations; new openings may be used for stairs, elevator shafts, duct penetrations and skylights. With varied knowledge of floor construction types and extensive experience in structural evaluation and strengthening, engineers can present valuable suggestions regarding the selection of opening locations, construction feasibility and possible strengthening options.

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“Penthouse View: A New Modular Structure Provides an Option for Unused Rooftop Space”
Pilla, D. & Tong, X. (2012)
Modern Steel Construction

This article highlights DRPILLA’s partnership with CCNY to design a solar roofpod prototype for sustainable urban living. The proposed roofpod was designed to meet NYC building cold standards and accommodated different dunnage and cladding configurations. It was sized to be constructed, disassembled, transported and reassembled multiple times. The simplicity of the steel structure and the adaptability of the modular envelope offer the flexibility to meet market segment demands and appeal to the eco-conscious urban dweller who desires to live lightly and act as a steward of a more resilient urban environment.

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“An Affordable and Sustainable Building Design in New York City”
Pilla, D. & Tong, X. (2011)
Structure Magazine

This article features the Fox Point residence, a 48-unit affordable housing development that achieved USGBC LEED Silver certification. Located in the Foxhurst section of the Bronx, this complex was featured for its groundbreaking strategies that contributed to fueling the progress being made in creating more sustainable and resilient affordable housing developments. The project was sponsored by the Midtown-based nonprofit Palladia, Inc. and aimed at providing housing for low income families with disabilities. Palladia selected the design team of OCV Architects and DRPILLA to design the project.

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