McGinnis Chen Associates

Company History

McGinnis Chen Associates, Inc. (MCA) has been a stalwart in the world of building enclosure consulting since its inception in 1963. Founded on the bedrock of expertise and a deep understanding of building systems, MCA has evolved into a renowned Architecture and Engineering firm with offices strategically located in San Francisco, Sacramento, and Long Beach, California. Over the decades, MCA has consistently demonstrated its commitment to excellence, earning a reputation for delivering comprehensive and specialized solutions that safeguard the integrity of building enclosures across the state.

Building the Foundation of Expertise

MCA's journey began with a singular focus: providing specialized consulting services for the complexities of building enclosures. Our team of seasoned professionals, many of whom have been with MCA for decades, have accumulated an unparalleled wealth of knowledge and practical experience in all facets of building enclosure design, construction, and maintenance. This rich history empowers us to approach each project with a depth of understanding that is often difficult to replicate.

A Holistic Approach to Building Enclosures

MCA's diverse service offerings encompass the entire lifecycle of a building enclosure, from initial design consultation and construction contract administration to post-construction investigations and expert witness testimony. Our expertise spans a vast range of building types and project scales, from single-family residences and mid-rise structures to monumental high-rise towers and historically significant landmarks.

Key Services Offered

MCA's comprehensive array of services reflects our commitment to providing our clients with a one-stop solution for all their building enclosure needs. Some of our key services include:

• Construction Documents Peer Review: We meticulously review construction documents to ensure they accurately reflect design intent and comply with all applicable building codes and standards.

• Construction Defect Litigation Support: Our in-depth knowledge of building enclosure systems allows us to provide expert analysis and testimony in construction defect disputes.
• Construction Contract Administration: We serve as knowledgeable advocates for our clients, overseeing the construction process, managing contracts, and ensuring compliance with project specifications.

• Field Quality Control Testing: MCA conducts rigorous field testing to verify the quality and performance of building enclosure materials and assemblies.

• Government-Mandated Inspections: We provide comprehensive inspection services that meet all regulatory requirements for building enclosures.

• Historic Preservation: We specialize in the sensitive restoration and preservation of historically significant buildings, ensuring that their unique architectural integrity is maintained.

• Building Enclosure Commissioning: We guide through the commissioning process for building enclosures, verifying that they perform as designed and meet the needs of occupants.

• Property Condition Assessment: We conduct thorough assessments of building enclosures to identify potential issues and provide recommendations for maintenance and repair.

• Remedial Architecture: We develop solutions for addressing and resolving building enclosure defects, ensuring that repairs are structurally sound and aesthetically appropriate.
• Third-Party Independent Observation: We provide unbiased observation services during construction, ensuring that work is performed according to established specifications.

Building Performance Through Collaboration

MCA is deeply committed to fostering collaborative relationships with our clients. We believe that open communication and a shared understanding of project goals are essential to delivering successful outcomes. Our team works closely with architects, engineers, contractors, and property owners to ensure that every project is a testament to their collective expertise and vision.