Middlesbrough College Project
Project Particulars
| Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Contractor | Laing O’Rourke |
| Client | Middlesbrough College |
| Architect | Hickton Madeley Architects, Telford |
| Commencement | March 2007 |
| Completion | November 2008 |
| Labour Requirements | 14 in total |
Work Brief
The manufacture and installation of architectural metalwork to the new Middlesbrough College campus included feature stairs, galvanised workshop stairs, balustrade bridges, secondary stairs and atriums.
Description of Works
Once Beal Architectural was appointed as primary architectural metalworker on the Middlesbrough College Project, we were drafted onto site early to assist the contractor with some early enabling works such as recycling bins and temporary handrails to the numerous concrete stairs within the development.
Our main contractual work commenced in August 2007. We started with the main reception Pod staircase – an unusual design, as the treads were set at 45 degree angles to the stringer, not the standard 90 degrees. This stair was manufactured using a fabricated box section stringer, comprising channel section and plate.
Soon after starting the main reception Pod staircase, the learning zone staircase was installed. This was a six flight staircase comprising flat bar stringers and folded treads, which we subsequently fitted with hardwood. Access during installation of the stair was restricted and the stair was assembled on site rather than the preferred method of off-site fabrication.
The stairs were designed for structural stability as well as an architectural feature. Whilst this work was being completed, the galvanised work shop stairs were fitted and work commenced on the task of fitting the balustrade and wall rail to the concrete escape stairs and the viewing galleries in the performing arts centres. This balustrade was fitted in full flight pre-manufactured panels comprising tubular balusters and top rail with infill bars parallel to the top rail.
As the contract progressed the balustrade was fitted to the feature stairs, atrium edges and bridges. The balustrade included flat bar balusters, glass infill panels and hardwood top rail.
As well as the challenges of the main contractual work we were contracted to do additional work, which included secondary steelwork to the underside of the building soffit, structural steelwork to support the gymnasium equipment, as well as the fabrication and fitting of stainless steel/glass balustrade to the spa area.
Unique Project Features
- Main reception Pod staircase layout – treads 45 degrees to stringers, not the usual 90 degrees.
- Full length angle glass clamping detail to the bridges, feature stair and atrium edge balustrade; a bespoke design to conceal the fixing lugs or brackets at the request of the architect.
- Installation of hardwood treads and handrail showing our diverse range of capabilities.
- Document control performed online via ‘Asite’ – a new way of working, which involved all project documentation and progress being recorded online, involving management training as well as modified working practices.
Gallery
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