Fallingwater structural intervention in time
A 65 year period of deflection and cracking at Fallingwater, evidence of a troubled structural history, frames a parallel history ofanalysis, monitoring and measured intervention. Complimentary investigation methods incl uded the review of original documentation, the use of non destructive techniques, the development of a finite element computer model, and remote sensor monitoring. The multi faceted analysis found the main cantilever structure highly overstressed, and evidence of continued movement made the risk of structural collapse a reasonable concern. The final repair design employs a combination of steel and carbon fiber reinforcement, but is highlighted by the use ofhigh strength steel post tensioning strands within the living room floor, externai to the structure but internai to the historic architectural finishes. The stair to Bear Run suffered from severe material deterioration and was rebuilt using stainless steel framing and reinforcing within concrete elements. Carbon fiber sheet was also employed to strengthen the daringly cantilevered west terrace.