Initial concept design for a terraced block of 4 / 5 storey flats included a structural steel frame built of piled ground beam foundations with masonry infill panels.
We were invited by a ‘Design and Build’ contractor to evaluate the structural concept and offer alternatives, which would bring cost savings. Following our appraisal the solution of a loadbearing masonry superstructure supporting precast concrete flooring panels, built of mass concrete trench fill foundations brought significant cost savings leading to the contract being awarded to our client.
A major consideration in the design of the external masonry panels was in respect of the window fenestration. In all respects our design input assisted in achieving an ‘excellent’ BREEAM rating.