JPP consulting - Civil & Structural Engineers

University of Northampton Innovation Centre

Brief

Structural investigation and appraisal of an existing three storey reinforced concrete framed structure with view to modernisation and refurbishment providing facilities for small starter businesses.

Provide new lift shaft and stairwell off end of existing building to satisfy latest DDA requirements.

Brise soleil fitted to face of existing building to provide shading from sunlight.

Existing staff to be relocated into temporary accommodation during refurbishment works.

Design

Elements of the existing structure were exposed to confirm the form of the original construction and structure was appraised under proposed loading following the refurbishment works.

Temporary accommodation was provided on the campus in fully serviced portacabins off concrete pad foundations with connection to existing foul and surface water drainage systems.

The new stairwell with integral lift shaft was constructed in rendered blockwork off a tanked reinforced concrete pit with provision of precast concrete staircases to perimeter of shaft.

Following computer modelling to determine spacing and pitch, brise soleil blades were supported off a steel framework in turn bolted to the southern face of the exposed existing concrete columns.

Client:

University of Northampton

Architect:

University of Northampton

Contractor:

Stepnell Ltd, Wantage

Contract Value:

£2m (July 2008)