About
Dane Hirst
What's your favorite BHB project you've worked on and why?
Madeleine Choir School Seismic Upgrade (but only when looking back; during the project was not always so fun). It is the project that advanced my knowledge and skill more than any other project I have worked on because of how difficult it was and how many unique solutions we had to come up with during construction. It was very satisfying to be part of making the school a much better learning environment for the kids as part of the remodel of the school. But it was also great to be part of taking what would have been a very dangerous building during a seismic event, and making it a much safer place for children and teachers to be in during an earthquake, while keeping the historical look and feel of the building that was originally constructed in the 1800's and added on to multiple times over the years.
What excites you about your work?
1. When I get to work on large projects that have unique architectural features. 2. When I get to work on seismic upgrades of architecturally significant historical buildings to allow those buildings to continue to provide historical significance, but to reduce the risk to people going forward. 3. When I have the ability to impact projects by reducing construction impacts on the climate.
Before working at BHB what was the most unusual or interesting job you've ever had?
I ran a booth at fairs and street festivals for two summers where I went all over the western US and took people's pictures and put them on things like giant buttons, keychains, necklaces, etc. (but mostly the giant buttons, people loved them for whatever reason). Most nights, and especially weekend nights would get pretty entertaining as people enjoyed more adult beverages.
What's your favorite animal and why?
My cats. Because they're part of my family and they're awesome.
