Business Details
28 Years
experience
Trusted Structural Engineering Services in Palo Alto
Since 1998, Hohbach Lewin has delivered structural and civil engineering solutions to architects, developers, and contractors across the United States. With offices in Palo Alto, San Francisco, Pasadena, and Eugene, our team of over 70 professionals combines technical expertise with a commitment to timely, innovative solutions. We specialize in structural engineering, seismic evaluations, and civil design for diverse sectors including education, healthcare, residential, and commercial projects. Our reputation for reliability and technical excellence has been built through decades of collaboration with clients to address complex challenges.As a California-certified Small Business Enterprise, we prioritize professional growth for our staff while maintaining a balanced approach to work and life. Our engineers utilize state-of-the-art tools like BIM and REVIT to deliver construction documents, seismic retrofits, and specialized designs for new and renovated buildings. With licenses in over 15 states, we bring regional expertise to national projects while fostering a culture of open communication and continuous improvement within our teams.
Services
Structural Engineering
Civil Engineering
Seismic Services
Surveying
Construction Drawings
Seismic Retrofit Design
Integrated Project Delivery
Excavation Shoring
Building Renovations
Professional Services
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience in structural and civil engineering across 15+ US states
- Our team includes licensed professionals with expertise in seismic retrofit design and analysis
- We utilize advanced tools like BIM, REVIT, and TEKLA for precise engineering solutions
- We maintain a culture of open communication and continuous feedback within project teams
- Our California-certified Small Business status ensures personalized service with institutional expertise
Associations and certifications
- Small Business Enterprise (SBE)
Services
Structural Engineering
We provide comprehensive structural engineering services for new construction and building renovations. Our expertise covers wood, steel, and concrete structures ranging from single-family homes to high-rise commercial buildings. Our engineers create detailed construction documents and perform complex calculations to ensure structural integrity while meeting modern building codes. With experience in over 15 states, we deliver solutions that balance technical precision with practical construction considerations.
Seismic Services
Our seismic evaluation and retrofit services protect buildings against earthquake risks. Using ASCE 41-17 standards, we conduct detailed analyses to identify vulnerabilities and develop cost-effective retrofit strategies. We specialize in seismic upgrades for existing structures including schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings. Our engineers have completed hundreds of seismic projects across California and the Pacific Northwest, applying both linear and nonlinear analysis methods to ensure optimal safety and code compliance.
Civil Engineering
We offer full civil engineering services for land development projects, including grading, drainage, and utility design. Our team prepares site plans that integrate with structural requirements while meeting local jurisdiction standards. From initial concept through construction documentation, we ensure efficient site layouts that optimize building placement and infrastructure. Our civil engineers collaborate closely with structural teams to deliver cohesive solutions for residential, commercial, and institutional developments.
Construction Drawings
We create detailed construction documents that translate design concepts into buildable specifications. Our drawings include structural systems, material requirements, and connection details for all building types. Using BIM and REVIT technology, we produce coordinated plans that minimize field conflicts and streamline construction. These documents serve as the technical foundation for projects ranging from small renovations to large-scale developments, ensuring clear communication between all stakeholders.
Professional Services
We provide specialized engineering consultation for complex projects requiring technical expertise beyond standard services. This includes shoring design, forensic analysis, and construction phase support. Our professionals offer solutions for challenging conditions like historic building preservation and industrial facility upgrades. With decades of collective experience, our team addresses unique engineering problems through innovative approaches that maintain structural integrity while meeting project-specific requirements.
People
Douglas C. Hohbach
Principal
Co-founder with over 25 years of structural engineering experience, specializing in seismic design and building code compliance. Leads technical direction and client relations.
Dan Lewin
Principal
Co-founder recognized for expertise in healthcare and educational facility design, with extensive experience in complex structural systems and project management.
Joaquim Roberts
Principal
Senior structural engineer with specialization in high-rise buildings and seismic retrofit projects, bringing technical excellence to commercial and institutional developments.
Sam Shiotani
Principal
Licensed engineer with expertise in wood-frame construction and mixed-use developments, focusing on efficient structural systems for multi-family housing.
Anthony Lee
Principal
Structural design specialist with deep knowledge of Bay Area building codes and seismic requirements for complex urban developments.
Questions
What types of projects does Hohbach-Lewin specialize in?
We specialize in structural and civil engineering for education facilities, healthcare buildings, multi-unit residential developments, commercial structures, and seismic retrofits across the United States.
In which states are you licensed to work?
We are licensed in California, Oregon, and 13 additional states, with project experience spanning the West Coast, Rocky Mountain region, Texas, and Hawaii.
How do you handle complex seismic requirements?
We use ASCE 41-17 standards and advanced analysis methods to evaluate seismic risks and develop retrofit solutions tailored to each building's specific needs.
What technology do you use for engineering design?
Our engineers utilize BIM, REVIT, TEKLA, and other advanced tools to create precise construction documents and coordinate multidisciplinary project elements.
