I'm the one on the right by the way.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Major Project Final Posters
I found that this project allowed me to understand that by taking inspiration from a famous architect, in my case Louis Khan, I was exposed to some new and innovative construction methods in order to create architecure as opposed to a construction. By looking at the full section of the office building I fully researched all aspects, including the footing system, suspended first floor, roofing and enveloping assembly. Although I am a liitle worried that this research is not fully conveyed through the posters I feel that I have learn't alot for myself.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Globe Torquay
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The details above are showing how structural elements can be disguised to be aesthetically pleasing. The vertical columns do in fact have steel Universal Columns in the middle to support the structure however the columns on the angle are purely to look good. A technique I am fond of as I think it is very effective – it almost makes the building look like it is unable to support itself. The columns resemble the ruins of a roman temple yet transposed in a modern form. The detail also shows how the columns are supporting the Universal Beams as well as integrating the down pipe, which can usually spoil a design.
Really liked the way in which the three different materials
(Glass, wooden board cladding and plaster cladding) are complementing each other in this picture. The joining has being concealed in order to achieve a smooth, clean and striking finish.
Below shows the concrete column – with the joint to the ceiling concealed by the external cladding. It is clear to see the sealant between the two which allows for movement – either contraction or expansion – of the concrete. This movement is dependant on the temperature and the loads imposed on the column.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Deakin Engineering Centre
Located on the Warn Ponds Campus, the Engineering Centre is one of architectural innovation. I am particularly fond of the way the characteristics of different glazing on the windows have been combined to create a really engaging façade to the structure. This is exemplified at ground level where triangular panes of both reflective and tinted glass are used to create some really interesting reflections.
The picture below shows how the structure is exposed both on the outside and the interior. The steel framing forms the geometric shapes of the windows whilst the steel universal column supporting the roofing structure can be seen on the inside. The aluminum façade to the building casts dramatic shadows during the different stages of the sun movement path.
The detail below shows how a Universal Beam has being engineering to fit the angle of the roof to act as a rafter. Diagonal bracing is incorporated to resist the lateral wind loads. The steel column is attached to the wall via girts which are welded and bolted to cleats.
The Universal Beam here is connected to the ceiling by ‘C’ girts which again are welded and bolted to cleats. This has then being covered by 20mm plasterboard.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Shop Drawings from Spotlight Development
I was able to return to the Spotlight Development site located at the Belmont / Breakwater inter-junction in order to meet with the project manager, Chris. This was really insightful into the construction of concrete tilt up panels. I was able to determine that the size of my strip footing for the major project would be 600mm x 600mm with 6-12TM. This was based on similar sized panels framing the structure of the retail blocks which would in turn have similar loads as those in my showroom structure.
The drawings also demonstrate possible ways of connecting the RC Slab on Ground with the wall panel using Cast-In Plates. One of the other details also shows how a suspended slab could be attached to the panel using a dowel and ferrule system – a possible method that could be employed for the major project.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Straw Bale Construction
I know this isn't an appropriate technique for a long spanning commercial building however the drainage system was mentioned in the lecture. I am also keen to research how it works as my parents have just submitted plans to build their own straw bale house.http://groovygreen.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=267&Itemid=57
| Building With Straw |  |  |
| Written by Michael d'Estries | |
| Monday, 14 August 2006 |
As long as appropriate moisture control measures are taken, straw bale walls can last as long as any other conventional systems. However overhangs are required in order to keep the rain (if it ever comes) of the walls. These overhangs should be about 45cm and the bales should also be raised 60cm off the foundations to reduce capillary action of ground moisture. Cement is mixed with lime to increase the permable properties and allow the straw to ‘breathe’ and release any moisture. Rebar is also imperative to stop the straw from getting wet and structurally failing. Rebar is a metal used to spike the bales together when fitting them as a wall. Flashing is required at the top of the walls to allow the water to divert the water away from the straw.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Major Project Floorplan
This is the floor plan I am proposing for the Major Project based on the architectural influences of Louis Kahn. It clearly shows where the panels are placed and how the interior space works. The concrete panel sizes are 2500W x 6200H x 150D and so I will have to research the most appropriate footing system to cater for the loads. I have designed the interior walls in accordance of Kahn’s principle to integrate the ‘served’ and ‘servant’ spaces. The benefit of using load bearing tilt up construction allows for large spanning areas free of columns. The site is large enough for the panels to be cast in situe and therfore minimises cost and energy required for transporation. The 5m x 5m section I am looking at in detail for the project is highlighted as on of the connecting panel joints running through the ground floor, mezzanine layer and roofing system.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Innovations in Tilt-up Construction Help Contractors Overcome Challenges
http://www.tiltup.com/commercial-construction-articles/tilt-up-masonry-brick-construction-costs/
Although not directly related to our assignment or course content I found this article particularly interesting. Not sure I am completely sold by the finished result as I don’t really like products that are used to imitate other materials. However it is an example of how new technology can create some innovative products.
The case study investigated in the article is the Northern Tool & Equipment Company's retail store in Lewisville, Texas. It was decided early on in the design stage that tilt up construction would be used. This was primarily because it provided a cost effective solution and would also allow for a quick construction to meet the building schedule. Steel framing could have proved an alternative in terms of value and time of erecting, however local zoning regimes did not allow for metal structures of this nature.
Local building requirements also raised another issue – all new commercial buildings must have 100% masonry facades. Building an masonry façade along the walls removes all the benefits of tilt up construction. It also increases cost and time.
The solution for this case study was found in the form of a product called Brick Snap. This allows the façade to be applied to the panels as they are cast as opposed to constructing a façade and then attaching to the erect panels. Individual masonry tiles (as opposed to the depth of bricks) are placed in the concrete panels. The panels are then poured, left to cure, stood up and secured to the form of the walls. This took me a while to figure out – but in effect thin slithers of brick are cast in the concrete. This makes them purely aesthetic as they look very realistic yet only acting as a façade and it is in fact still the concrete panel that is taking the entire load.
“The Brick Snap system is another example of how the construction industry is driving innovations to manage costs and schedule without undercutting quality - the key benefits of tilt-up concrete construction. As these creative solutions are improved and implemented, tilt-up construction will continue to evolve into the construction methodology of choice for an ever-growing circle of commercial building applications.”
Although I think this is a clever solution to the problem imposed by the regulations and it is sometimes necessary in an industry that is constricted by cost and time. I’m still not convinced by the idea of creating an illusion to the users. Do we really want to live in a world that is, in a sense, fake?
Although not directly related to our assignment or course content I found this article particularly interesting. Not sure I am completely sold by the finished result as I don’t really like products that are used to imitate other materials. However it is an example of how new technology can create some innovative products.
The case study investigated in the article is the Northern Tool & Equipment Company's retail store in Lewisville, Texas. It was decided early on in the design stage that tilt up construction would be used. This was primarily because it provided a cost effective solution and would also allow for a quick construction to meet the building schedule. Steel framing could have proved an alternative in terms of value and time of erecting, however local zoning regimes did not allow for metal structures of this nature.
Local building requirements also raised another issue – all new commercial buildings must have 100% masonry facades. Building an masonry façade along the walls removes all the benefits of tilt up construction. It also increases cost and time.
The solution for this case study was found in the form of a product called Brick Snap. This allows the façade to be applied to the panels as they are cast as opposed to constructing a façade and then attaching to the erect panels. Individual masonry tiles (as opposed to the depth of bricks) are placed in the concrete panels. The panels are then poured, left to cure, stood up and secured to the form of the walls. This took me a while to figure out – but in effect thin slithers of brick are cast in the concrete. This makes them purely aesthetic as they look very realistic yet only acting as a façade and it is in fact still the concrete panel that is taking the entire load.
“The Brick Snap system is another example of how the construction industry is driving innovations to manage costs and schedule without undercutting quality - the key benefits of tilt-up concrete construction. As these creative solutions are improved and implemented, tilt-up construction will continue to evolve into the construction methodology of choice for an ever-growing circle of commercial building applications.”
Although I think this is a clever solution to the problem imposed by the regulations and it is sometimes necessary in an industry that is constricted by cost and time. I’m still not convinced by the idea of creating an illusion to the users. Do we really want to live in a world that is, in a sense, fake?
Steel Buildings and Tilt-up Concrete Construction Together: Using the Strengths of Each
http://www.tiltup.com/commercial-construction-articles/steel-building-concrete/
A basic yet explanatory interpretation of how the different characteristics of steel and concrete can complement each other in various ways. The article highlights 3 uses of when steel might be combined with tilt up construction to provide the best quality and value:
- Steel framing is used for large office or retail buildings for its structural properties and economic value. However concrete panels might be used for thermal mass, fire protective qualities or as an exterior façade for aesthetic purposes.
- “An existing manufacturing building or warehouse made of concrete blocks could be expanded by adding a steel lean-to structure to one of its exterior support walls”.
-It is the combination of a rigid frame with the steel roofing system that provides a warehouse or distribution centre with a large clear span. Therefore the structural integrity remains the same regardless of which material is used – steel framing or concrete panels. This is particularly relevant to our project as a large uninterrupted floor area is required.
This article discusses the reasons for when and how it is most appropriate to combine the construction methods of steel with concrete. It might be that steel framing is used with tilt up construction, or that a concrete structure uses steel roofing system or components. The adopted method is dependant on the various issues raised in the previous articles such as size, location and purpose.
A basic yet explanatory interpretation of how the different characteristics of steel and concrete can complement each other in various ways. The article highlights 3 uses of when steel might be combined with tilt up construction to provide the best quality and value:
- Steel framing is used for large office or retail buildings for its structural properties and economic value. However concrete panels might be used for thermal mass, fire protective qualities or as an exterior façade for aesthetic purposes.
- “An existing manufacturing building or warehouse made of concrete blocks could be expanded by adding a steel lean-to structure to one of its exterior support walls”.
-It is the combination of a rigid frame with the steel roofing system that provides a warehouse or distribution centre with a large clear span. Therefore the structural integrity remains the same regardless of which material is used – steel framing or concrete panels. This is particularly relevant to our project as a large uninterrupted floor area is required.
This article discusses the reasons for when and how it is most appropriate to combine the construction methods of steel with concrete. It might be that steel framing is used with tilt up construction, or that a concrete structure uses steel roofing system or components. The adopted method is dependant on the various issues raised in the previous articles such as size, location and purpose.
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Major Project Development
This is the initial model I have made up in Microstation. I am sorry if it is a little hard to understand but I am still learning how to use the program. J This model includes pre-cast tilt up reinforced concrete load bearing panels, slab on ground, suspended RC floor and a lightweight steel roofing system. The roof consists of a 360 UB rafter connected to steel purlins and welded and bolted to the wall panel. The slope of the Zincalume roof is 5 degrees running into a box gutter drainage system. However after some consideration and discussions I have decided this is not an appropriate method that my chosen architect, Louis Kahn, would have adopted for the showroom. Therefore although this roofing system can still be utilized for the warehouse space as it provides a large column free space, I have instead decided to employ a concrete flat roof assembly for the showroom.This is more suitable to the overall design and more suitable to Kahn’s principles of a sense of order within. This does however mean a suspended floor will be needed to house all the services.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
When Does Concrete and Tilt-up Construction Make More Sense than Steel Buildings?
http://www.tiltup.com/commercial-construction-articles/concrete-panel-construction/
This article is clearly written and highly informative, stating the key factors for when it is advantageous to use concrete tilt up construction over steel. Although written in favour of concrete construction, the author describes both the advantages and disadvantages of both materials, expressing an opinionated yet not biased view.
Firstly the size of the building is raised as a major consideration as to what construction method should be employed. Although steel is generally a more expensive raw material, it can be a cost effective alternative for smaller projects, say less than 50, 000 square feet. This is due to the expensive construction processes associated with concrete – for example the rental of a large crane to lift the panels in place. However if the size of the building is larger than 50,000 square feet, the comparatively inexpensive cost of the concrete starts to offset the project’s fixed costs and so becomes more advantageous.
The next issue raised in the article is the location of the site. This is due to the fire codes, building permit requirements and other standards. Agricultural and lightly populated areas tend to have fewer codes to abide to, compared to more densely populated areas, which in contrast can be quite strict. This can even result in steel buildings not being allowed to be built in certain areas due to the characteristics of the material. In other cases the steel buildings have to spaced further apart than tilt up concrete buildings and so this is why more concrete buildings can be seen in the middle of cities.
Concrete and tilt up offer much more protection from fire compared to steel. Although steel is not combustible, it can not be classified as fireproof as the material loses structural strength when exposed to high temperatures. As in the case of the World Trade Centers - although the initial impact of the crash did cause structural damage it was the failure of the steel columns due to the extreme heat that resulted in the collapse of the tower.
Another consideration when choosing which construction method to use is the intended purpose of the building. ‘In general steel buildings work very well for storage buildings, indoor sports facilities, work shops, and aircraft hangers, but they are less suited for higher-trafficked buildings’. This is again due to the different qualities each of the materials posses. In general, steel is less durable than concrete and therefore will not be as stable in the event of bad weather or a heavy duty machine accident. Damage is localized when caused by a vehicle and it is less expensive to repair for a concrete building than steel. Concrete is also resistant to corrosion, rot or rust, an aspect that steel is very susceptible to and therefore has a shorter life span without repair.
This article is clearly written and highly informative, stating the key factors for when it is advantageous to use concrete tilt up construction over steel. Although written in favour of concrete construction, the author describes both the advantages and disadvantages of both materials, expressing an opinionated yet not biased view.
Firstly the size of the building is raised as a major consideration as to what construction method should be employed. Although steel is generally a more expensive raw material, it can be a cost effective alternative for smaller projects, say less than 50, 000 square feet. This is due to the expensive construction processes associated with concrete – for example the rental of a large crane to lift the panels in place. However if the size of the building is larger than 50,000 square feet, the comparatively inexpensive cost of the concrete starts to offset the project’s fixed costs and so becomes more advantageous.
The next issue raised in the article is the location of the site. This is due to the fire codes, building permit requirements and other standards. Agricultural and lightly populated areas tend to have fewer codes to abide to, compared to more densely populated areas, which in contrast can be quite strict. This can even result in steel buildings not being allowed to be built in certain areas due to the characteristics of the material. In other cases the steel buildings have to spaced further apart than tilt up concrete buildings and so this is why more concrete buildings can be seen in the middle of cities.
Concrete and tilt up offer much more protection from fire compared to steel. Although steel is not combustible, it can not be classified as fireproof as the material loses structural strength when exposed to high temperatures. As in the case of the World Trade Centers - although the initial impact of the crash did cause structural damage it was the failure of the steel columns due to the extreme heat that resulted in the collapse of the tower.
Another consideration when choosing which construction method to use is the intended purpose of the building. ‘In general steel buildings work very well for storage buildings, indoor sports facilities, work shops, and aircraft hangers, but they are less suited for higher-trafficked buildings’. This is again due to the different qualities each of the materials posses. In general, steel is less durable than concrete and therefore will not be as stable in the event of bad weather or a heavy duty machine accident. Damage is localized when caused by a vehicle and it is less expensive to repair for a concrete building than steel. Concrete is also resistant to corrosion, rot or rust, an aspect that steel is very susceptible to and therefore has a shorter life span without repair.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Timber is the new Steel
http://www.infolink.com.au/articles/08/0C02F808.aspx
This article starts on a humorous note saying how the retired are not only demanding to be comfortable but now also want their buildings to include all amenities and have a ‘wow’ factor.
This permitted considerable cost savings, as the LVL pre-fabrication could occur off site whilst the steel structure was erected. This combination of timber and steel allowed the building to be put up very quickly and within the budget.
The design of this complex was not a conventional rectangular shape and therefore required an innovative approach. LVL timber was a very suitable alternative to steel as it was flexible to meet the curved design of the building. Lateral stability to the imposed loads was permitted through the combination of materials and framing systems – A masonry core at one end, steel portal frame at the other and timber LVL frame sandwiched between. This allowed the positive attributes of all the materials to be integrated.
Hyspan (600mm x 62mm lengths) can span a distance of 8m and if required to span further can be double up. These are connected to the steelwork and masonry wall simply using bolted proprietary systems. Architecturally the structural elements have being left exposed to feature as design elements. I personally think this technique is a very effective and visually pleasing one and works well within this scheme.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Torquay Apartments
Based on Boston Road
Here shows how the end structure is purely steel framing exemplifying how the corner assembly works. I am assuming by the artists impression of the final building that this structure will be covered by some form cladding and then plastered. Below is a good example of how the UB 320 rafter is connected to the wall panel by angle plates and 6 bolts. It is also clear the comparative size of the purlins to the rafter.
An example of how a steel stanchion is bolted to the concrete panel via cleats. The wall panel is supported by strip footing and placed approx 75mm below ground level.
Below is a detail to show how the rafter and purlins are connected by M24 bolts. It also shows how fly bracing is placed on alternate rafters for extra support to the purlins. Steel rods have been used for cross bracing to resist lateral loads that may be imposed by external forces.
Here shows how the end structure is purely steel framing exemplifying how the corner assembly works. I am assuming by the artists impression of the final building that this structure will be covered by some form cladding and then plastered. Below is a good example of how the UB 320 rafter is connected to the wall panel by angle plates and 6 bolts. It is also clear the comparative size of the purlins to the rafter.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Spotlight -Breakwater/Belmont
Located on the
Wall to Ground connection – Cast in steel wall ties placed two per panel at each end, with the grout poured through a grouting tube to seal the two panels together. Concrete is then poured on top of this plate to ensure strength and a smooth finish.
A detail to show how the universal rafter beam connects to the ‘c’ girt through a bolted plate. Also showing how the cross bracing is connected at this junction by a panel and how the corrugated roofing sits on top. The steel columns to support these rafters have been spaced at 8m in length ways and 19m in width allowing for a relatively column free floor area. 
These panels were pre fabricated by a local company and transported via truck. Therefore curing has only ready occurred with the minimum time being four days. The advantage of this method allows a higher degree of finish. It also would be a quicker process off site as the set up is already in place however does require more energy in transportation. The opening for the panel would have been pre formed allowing for the frame and glazing to put in at a later stage.
The panels are lifted into place using a heavy duty crane. OHS regulations state that the radius of the height of the crane must be roped off and nobody is allowed to work within this area whilst the machine is in use. Once in place the panels are supported by steel props and may only be removed after being checked by an engineer.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Research on Louis Kahn
Design:
Working with simple materials, notably brick and concrete. Kahn applied his principles to create buildings instilled with the spiritual qualities for which he strove through a masterful sense of space and light. Kahn combined visually compelling spaces with drama as the changing light transformed the sensory experience of being in the building at different times of the day and night. In terms of injecting Kahn's spirit into our own warehouse project we are looking at incorporating the circular and geometric shapes used in the Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, into the concrete walls. Below are images used as a source of inspiration for our design.
Construction:
We are using concrete as our primary material and there are a number of construction methods that can be adapted to incorporate Kahn's ideals. The best alternative solution to steel portal frames is a concrete load-bearing wall with a lightweight roof. This is a very straightforward design and construction approach that can be easily adapted. The load-bearing walls can be either propped or cantilevered. For the propped wall, the stability comes initially from push-pull props. When the roof is complete the props are removed as the roof then provides the propping force and takes the horizontal loads back to the flank walls. For the cantilevered option, the walls cantilever from the base and do not need any propping or reliance on the on the roof for stability.The construction of the roof is also simplified with concrete walls as, unlike with steel portal frames, the roof beams are simply supported on the walls. The spacing of the roof beams could be optimised as they would not be reliant on the portal frame spacing. Roofs may be light or heavyweight. A heavyweight roof would provide extra thermal insulation and mass.
Working with simple materials, notably brick and concrete. Kahn applied his principles to create buildings instilled with the spiritual qualities for which he strove through a masterful sense of space and light. Kahn combined visually compelling spaces with drama as the changing light transformed the sensory experience of being in the building at different times of the day and night. In terms of injecting Kahn's spirit into our own warehouse project we are looking at incorporating the circular and geometric shapes used in the Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, into the concrete walls. Below are images used as a source of inspiration for our design.
Construction:
We are using concrete as our primary material and there are a number of construction methods that can be adapted to incorporate Kahn's ideals. The best alternative solution to steel portal frames is a concrete load-bearing wall with a lightweight roof. This is a very straightforward design and construction approach that can be easily adapted. The load-bearing walls can be either propped or cantilevered. For the propped wall, the stability comes initially from push-pull props. When the roof is complete the props are removed as the roof then provides the propping force and takes the horizontal loads back to the flank walls. For the cantilevered option, the walls cantilever from the base and do not need any propping or reliance on the on the roof for stability.The construction of the roof is also simplified with concrete walls as, unlike with steel portal frames, the roof beams are simply supported on the walls. The spacing of the roof beams could be optimised as they would not be reliant on the portal frame spacing. Roofs may be light or heavyweight. A heavyweight roof would provide extra thermal insulation and mass.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Deakin Mailing and Distribution Centre
The renovation of this distribution centre has put some funk back into what could be a typically boring building. 
An example of how a functional element such as a down pipe can be integrated to create an elegant design feature.
Another example of how aesthetically unpleasing items can be hidden in a way that fashions an architectural form. For example here I think it is the ventilation system that is placed on top of the roof which has then been concealed through the use of wooden slats. This is an innovative and striking technique
Below shows the rigid knee joint between the stanchion and rafter in a portal frame system. The advantage of this assembly allows for a higher degree of restraint to the rotational loads as opposed to a flexible joint. It is also clear to see the safety mesh and sarking.
An example of how a functional element such as a down pipe can be integrated to create an elegant design feature. 
Another example of how aesthetically unpleasing items can be hidden in a way that fashions an architectural form. For example here I think it is the ventilation system that is placed on top of the roof which has then been concealed through the use of wooden slats. This is an innovative and striking technique
Below shows the rigid knee joint between the stanchion and rafter in a portal frame system. The advantage of this assembly allows for a higher degree of restraint to the rotational loads as opposed to a flexible joint. It is also clear to see the safety mesh and sarking. 
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Section A - A
I wasn’t entirely sure what ‘Zincalume’ roofing was when drawing this detail so decided to look it up the BlueScope Steel website – The article link is http://www.bluescopesteel.com.au/go/brands/zincalume-steel/features-and-benefits/features-and-benefits-of-zincalume-steel
Features and Benefits of Zincalume steel:
BlueScope Steel's Advanced Coating Technology.
“The coating on ZINCALUME® steel comprises of 55% aluminum, 43.5% zinc and 1.5% silicon” This amalgamation of materials creates a composite product that holds excellent forming capabilities and is available in high strength grades. Zincalume steel is a product that has set the standards for corrosion resistance and life span. It has been specifically designed to withstand the effects of the uniquely varied Australian climate.
The product was developed in order to improve the traditional performance of galvanized iron. It was discovered that by blending aluminum with zinc in an alloy coating, it resulted in a product that had excellent corrosion resistant qualities. This therefore means that Zincalume has a lifespan four times longer than that of ordinary galvanized steel.
A computer controlled system is used in order to ensure accurate control and consistency of the coating. Steel is not only known for its strength and durability but is also elegant and strikingly dramatic. Below are some examples of where it has been used in architectural projects.
Entrance to the Olympic Park Railway Station Close up of Railway Station
Roofing and Walling made from Zincalume Steel complements the environment.
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