Description of Works: Refurbishment & redevelopment works to a partially occupied Grade B listed library building to provide an informal reading area with open plan mezzanine area, a tea bar, meeting areas, display/exhibition space, an archive room and storage area.  Externally, a feature artwork lift shaft provides access to the first floor of the building.

Works included:

• masonry repairs
• roof repairs
• downtakings & structural alterations
• new windows & doors
• partition walls
• M&E works including lighting, power, data comms, new heating & ventilation systems, toilet facilities, fire and security system

Added Value

In order to meet with the Client’s budget at tender stage we undertook a design review exercise which included input to the following items:

Piling/Foundations: The solution of mini piles & heavy foundations was reviewed.  Whilst piling was required, the shape of the foundations were simplified to reduce shuttering cost and concrete volume. The piling access solution was also revised with the removal of flooring and the use of a crane to provide access for the rig through a window.

External Lift Shaft: The design intent was to have feature 10mm steel sheet cladding with text cut into the sheet as the outer face. The steel frame and composite cladding were reviewed and rationalised prior to the detailing of the secondary steel support solution; following further review we proposed an aluminium composite sheet detailing the text, providing a lighter weight design solution, with a reduced risk of individuals being able to climb the cladding once installed.

Community Benefits

• We exhibited at the Client’s Meet the Buyer event hosted for the benefit of local SMEs and social enterprises
• Site registered with the Considerate Constructors Scheme and scored 35/50 on 1^st Audit

For more information please contact us