In our complex environment, buildings don’t stand still—they move—not in ways we can always see, but in subtle, constant ways we can measure and control. Buildings live in an immense world of motion. Vibrations can be triggered by sources outside the structure—such as traffic, rail lines, and adjacent equipment—as well as those within it, like mechanical systems or human activity. A truck rumbling over a speed bump near the entrance, exhaust fans spinning on the roof, or footsteps in a corridor can introduce vibrations that compromise comfort, equipment function, and long-term performance. At LeMessurier, we specialize in transforming challenges like defining and mediating such disparate elements into opportunities for innovation.
It’s not surprising that jumping and running can generate energy that travels through a building, but even simply walking can resonate within structural elements. We help clients understand, isolate, and mitigate unwanted vibrations wherever they occur. Our expertise supports everything from flexible lab facilities with evolving vibration thresholds to MRI suites where precision is paramount.
Our Approach: Precision Meets Performance
At LeMessurier, our approach to vibration-sensitive design is driven by deep technical analysis and a commitment to collaboration.
1. Collaboration-Driven Design
The most effective vibration mitigation strategies begin with listening. Whether we’re designing a structure for sensitive imaging equipment or a Core & Shell building meant to evolve with changing tenants, we start by aligning our design approach with our client’s performance goals and operational realities.
By engaging with owners, architects, equipment vendors, and contractors early, we help include and integrate efficient vibration considerations—our solutions are not bolted on as an afterthought.
2. Tailored Solutions for Every Project
No two projects are alike—and neither are their vibration profiles. We apply prescriptive solutions for typical, repetitive structures outlined in established design guides. But when a project calls for more nuance, we go further. For complex scenarios, we leverage Floorier, our proprietary analytical tool. It allows us to model dynamic behaviors, optimize structural systems, and accurately predict vibrational responses across a range of floor types and architectural layouts.
3. Beyond Conservative Equations
Standard equations provide helpful baselines but often result in overly conservative solutions. We focus on efficiency and analysis. Rather than simply plugging into formulas, we decompose excitation waves and analyze the modal properties of each floor—understanding how a structure actually responds to motion. This advanced methodology lets us address challenges that fall outside the scope of standard design guides, including:
- Irregular floor plates
- Cantilevers
- Unconventional framing systems
- Architectural features like partition walls, which we can integrate as part of our vibration mitigation strategy
This detailed approach helps us deliver more precise, efficient, and architecturally integrated solutions.
SMART TOOLS FOR SMARTER DESIGN
Flexible Walking Path Analysis
Human activity is dynamic—not static. We simulate how movement along actual walking paths impacts vibration within a space. Whether it’s a fast-paced corridor or a quiet patient room, we calculate responses at each step location, allowing us to place materials only where necessary—maximizing performance while minimizing waste.
Parametric Iteration for Optimized Outcomes
Our parametric design tools allow us to rapidly explore a range of variables—frame spacing, floor depth, material combinations—to find the best-performing design within architectural constraints.
For example, if a client wants to increase ceiling heights or allow more daylight into a space, we can iterate quickly to find a framing solution that satisfies both aesthetic goals and vibration performance.
This flexibility leads to better decisions, faster—ensuring that the final result balances technical precision with architectural vision.
Solving Vibration Challenges with Confidence
Vibration-sensitive design is complex, but it doesn’t have to be a barrier. At LeMessurier, we see it as an opportunity to combine engineering and design to enhance performance, usability, and experience.
From laboratories and life sciences facilities to medical imaging suites and high-performance workspaces, we’re proud to help clients deliver buildings that move—and perform—beautifully.