This landmark project focused on the conservation of the historic Lumbardhi Cinema in Prizren, combining heritage sensitivity with advanced structural engineering. It included Kosovo’s first use of NDT techniques on historical masonry and MASW testing for dynamic soil characterization. Emergency stabilization was designed for unsafe areas, and the long-span Queen Post roof was strengthened using custom steel ties and frames. Nonlinear analysis guided targeted interventions, ensuring both safety and respect for the building’s cultural significance.
This pioneering project represents one of the first cases in Kosovo where historical buildings underwent a full structural engineering assessment. Focusing on vernacular masonry in Prizren, it combined Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) techniques and MASW soil analysis to evaluate structural and seismic behavior. Emergency stabilization measures were designed for unsafe buildings, while nonlinear analysis methods guided the development of tailored strengthening strategies. The project set a new precedent in Kosovo for integrating engineering precision into heritage conservation.
This project focused on upgrading the roof structure of a sports hall originally designed with glulam beams and a steel substructure. Due to some construction problems and misinterpretations, reinforcement rebars were used instead of the specified steel ties, compromising structural integrity. The redesign aimed to preserve the existing glulam beams and roof layout while ensuring safety under all loading conditions. After evaluating four solutions, two were shortlisted. The chosen solution involved stainless-steel rods connected at each steel truss intersection, offering the best balance of safety, cost, and constructability. Detailed assessments, specifications, and a detailed load testing procedure were provided to ensure a safe and practical upgrade of the existing structure.
Built in the late 1960s, the building features a reinforced concrete structure with irregularly placed masonry walls, complicating its seismic assessment. To ensure accurate numerical modeling, a thorough series of structural investigations was performed. The process began with a visual inspection and photographic survey, followed by a detailed plan based on gathered data and existing documentation to minimize intrusiveness. Through multiple site visits and precise measurements, the building's geometry was accurately documented. Both destructive and non-destructive methods were used to determine mechanical properties, including core sampling, rebound hammer tests, and reinforcement mapping, revealing discrepancies with original drawings. This data was then used to assess the structural integrity and regularity as per Eurocode 8, ultimately producing reliable mechanical parameters and confidence factors for an accurate numerical model of the building.
The Loreto of Prague is a Baroque monument with a rich history, known for its iconic façade by the Dientzenhofers. The complex features a replica of St. Mary’s Holy House of Nazareth and has undergone several construction phases since 1626, leading to alterations and some damage, particularly to the timber roof structures. Recent studies, including dendrochronological dating and diagnostic tests, have analyzed these historic interventions. A numerical model of the south-west wing’s timber roof was created to understand the observed deformations. The model confirms the current stability of the structure and suggests minimally invasive strengthening solutions to ensure its longevity.
Built on the left bank of the Douro River, the Romanesque Church of Barrô was founded in the 12th century. This church underwent many changes during its service years. The damage level and mechanical properties of the structure were evaluated through NDT. From these tests, it was possible to evaluate the structural properties with a comfortable reliable confidence level and form a detailed damage map. With the purpose of determining the cause of the damages and suggesting proper conservation, a numerical nonlinear analysis was performed in order to evaluate the vertical load-carrying capacity of the structure. Lateral pushover analysis was also performed in both directions to observe the seismic performance of the structure. Finally, preventive measures are recommended, together with a detailed monitoring plan to increase the confidence and knowledge level of the structure.