Saiful Bouquet is providing structural engineering services for the Vermont Corridor redevelopment in Koreatown. This project involves the seismic strengthening and expansion of the former LA County Department of Mental Health headquarters, originally built in 1966.
The 12-story, 155,000-sf tower at 550 Vermont Avenue will be expanded by 88,340 sf of office space and 2,000 sf of retail at street level, creating a pedestrian-friendly environment. The project utilizes advanced seismic retrofitting and innovative materials, including Expanded Shale, Clay, and Slate (ESCS) lightweight aggregate, to enhance structural integrity while reducing weight. Phased over 31 months, the renovation will also include modern office spaces, a fitness center, conference rooms, and public amenities, making it a vital administrative hub for LA County.
Upon completion, the building will total approximately 279,000 sf, supporting up to 1,400 workstations. The design features a high-performance aluminum curtain wall system, a landscaped terrace, and a pedestrian bridge connecting adjacent sites, ensuring both functionality and sustainability.
