Challenges
The biggest challenge on this live, city centre site was the logisitics. With highly restricted unloading and storage space, meticulous planning of lifting materials to work areas was needed from Day One.
Materials storage was restricted to just 15m of pavement and a limited area on a scaffold gantry.
Cladding panels, glazing, subgrid and fixings had to be lifted with hoist, winch and mast climbers to the correct levels, just-in-time for installation.
The client required significant improvements in energy efficiency and lower running costs. A complete re-design of the building envelope, with a fabric-first approach and improved ventilation, was needed to reduce overheating and energy demand.
The facade design and calculations were based on “as built” drawings. Only once the original bricks and windows were removed, the existing structure was uncovered and accessible.
The student accommodation had to be completed on time in readiness for the new academic year.
The client wanted a stand-out result, transforming the old block into a net gain to the city centre and the local community.
Solutions
With early engagement A²O supported the scheme’s feasibility throughout pre-construction, ensuring that the mast climber, Niko rail and scaffolding were sufficient for the programme.
A²O organised Just-in-Time deliveries, all requiring HIABs and a full-time traffic marshall.
2-4 labourers were fully employed in lifting materials, increasing to 8 for the glazing install. All curtain wall components had to be installed in situ.
Operational carbon has been optimised through energy efficiency measures including wall and roof insulation and new glazing. The project team achieved up to a 40% reduction in running costs and a reduction in gas consumption by 33%.
Due to dimensional discrepancies of the structure from the as-built drawings, A²O promptly made design and site adjusts. Site pull tests were carried out for the existing concrete.
Despite third party access issues and material delays, the project was completed in August.
Multiple custom-sized planks had to fit the circular, night-lit portal perfectly, creating the focal centre of a spectacular new landmark.
Fact File
Sector
- Education
STATUS
- Refurbishment
Value
- £3,185,000
Scope of Work
- SFS & Y-Wall Board
- Fibre-Cement Cladding - Equitone Natura
- LinAL-X Diagonal Cladding + AxiAL support
- Curtain Wall System, anodised finish
- Spandrels: back-painted glass & aluminium
- Aluminium Bracketry - EVT II subgrid
- Rainscreen Slab Insulation
- Fire Barriers
- Louvres
- Cappings & Flashings