Choate recently celebrated the topping out of Faber Plaza in Charleston, SC! The last beam, which was signed by everyone present at the groundbreaking of the project was hoisted into its final resting place at the top of the building. A ceremonial fir tree was also hoisted into place atop the signed beam during the celebration which was followed by catered lunch.

The practice of “topping out” a new building can be traced to Scandinavia. History holds that a tree or leafy branch was placed atop a new building, typically on the topmost iron or wood beam and adorned with flags or streamers. The purpose was to appease the tree-dwelling spirits misplaced during the building construction. Workers would then partake in a toast and a meal in celebration. This tradition is often still performed today, accompanied by the signatures of the project team, wishing the building future success!