CasaMagna Marriott Resort

GCI Consultants played a pivotal role in the resort hurricane damage renovation of the CasaMagna Marriott Cancun Resort following the devastating impact of Hurricane Wilma in October 2005. Our team was engaged by Marriott International to address the extensive damage caused by the Category 4 winds, which had compromised the resort’s aesthetics, structural integrity, and safety. Immediately after the storm, the hotel’s insurer terminated its coverage, leaving the resort without protection. Despite this, another insurance provider stepped in and agreed to offer coverage with one key condition: the resort must be upgraded to exceed Miami-Dade Hurricane Standards, which are considered some of the most rigorous and effective building codes for hurricane resistance.

Comprehensive Damage Assessment and Insurance Claim Support

Upon arrival, our experts conducted a thorough resort hurricane damage assessment, meticulously documenting the destruction. The storm had blown off skylights over public areas and several large curtain wall windows in the lobby. Additionally, guest room sliding glass doors and windows sustained significant damage. Evidently, this comprehensive evaluation was crucial in supporting the insurance claim process, ensuring a fair outcome for all parties involved.

Engineering Challenges and Innovative Solutions

Consequently, the renovation project presented unique challenges, particularly with the curtain walls. These arch-topped openings, approximately 30 feet wide and 30 feet tall, required a system capable of withstanding loads from 150-mile-per-hour wind speeds while complying with Miami-Dade missile impact requirements. Moreover, the new design needed to maintain the resort’s colonial architectural aesthetic.

To meet these demanding criteria, GCI’s engineers designed innovative solutions:

1. Custom steel span supports allowing for an aesthetically pleasing aluminum and glass system
2. New roof supports to accommodate high-performance skylights
3. Improved designs for windows, doors, curtain walls, and skylights
4. Specifications for new and improved hurricane-resistant guest room sliding glass doors and windows

Throughout the resort hurricane damage assessment and renovation process, GCI provided ongoing site inspections and conducted field water penetration testing to verify the highest quality standards were met. Overall, this rigorous approach guaranteed that all new installations not only met but exceeded the stringent Miami-Dade Hurricane Standards.

Outcome and Future Weather Events

Overall, the resort hurricane damage renovation project yielded impressive results. Portions of the hotel reopened to guests in the summer of 2006, with all work completed by 2007. The new exterior building envelope systems not only met all insurance company requirements but also significantly enhanced the resort’s resilience to future storms.

Ultimately, the successful renovation and hurricane-proofing of this resort underscore the importance of expert building envelope consulting in maintaining the longevity of high-value resorts in vulnerable coastal areas. Since the renovation, the Marriott Cancun Resort has weathered several tropical weather events without major incidents, demonstrating the effectiveness of GCI’s hurricane-resistant design and renovation solutions. Furthermore, the resort can provide safe shelter to guests and employees during future storms, preventing closures and disruptions.

For expert resort hurricane damage assessment and renovation services, contact GCI Consultants today. Our team’s dedication to enhancing building resilience can help protect your property and business continuity in hurricane-prone regions.