KCI provided construction engineering services for The Spence School’s new athletic and educational facility, a six-story addition located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.
Founded in 1892, Spence is a highly regarded independent girls’ school serving grades K–12, known for its rigorous academics and commitment to interdisciplinary learning, arts, and athletics. The expansion strengthens the school’s urban campus by introducing a range of modern program spaces, including a full-size gymnasium, international squash courts, student commons, and dedicated areas for performing arts and cross-disciplinary instruction. Designed to support both physical education and creative expression, the facility enhances opportunities for student engagement within a dense city environment where space is limited.
KCI’s role centered on construction engineering for the structural steel system, with a focus on developing detailed erection sequencing and temporary works to facilitate safe and efficient construction within the constrained site. The team produced both global and localized erection sequencing plans for long-span steel trusses and hollow-core plank floor systems, while maintaining close coordination with the contractor to address evolving field conditions and maintain project momentum.
To ensure structural stability throughout the erection process, KCI designed an array of temporary bracing systems, including horizontal diaphragm bracing, vertical and lateral supports for columns and frames, and stabilization measures for truss members during partially erected, unbraced conditions. Temporary shoring systems were also engineered to support large-span trusses at each panel point during installation—particularly in stages where the permanent floor diaphragms were not yet in place to provide lateral stability.
The completed facility represents a significant enhancement to the Spence campus, expanding its capacity for athletics, academics, and community programming. By integrating specialized learning environments within a vertically constructed urban addition, the project supports the school’s mission while reinforcing its presence in the Upper East Side neighborhood.
