30 INSIGHTS


What is the loading capacity of the existing structure? As above, buildings have historically been designed with large floor loading capacity, usually 4-5 + 1 kN/m2


, with additional


loading around cores for server space. As IT and advances in remote digital filing become the norm, we are designing to 3-3.5 + 1 kN/m2


. Floorplates can often be extended outwards as well as upwards utilising the redundant structural capacity in the frame and foundations.


What is the structural grid?


Are the columns at a sensible spacing that does not compromise the space, and can be efficiently used by incoming tenants?


Environmental factors


There is significant embodied energy within an existing building. Retaining as much as possible reduces this wastage as well as reducing the transport involved in carting away the old and bringing in the new.


Case Study: Victoria Gate, Woking We originally designed and delivered the original Victoria Gate in 1986 for Norwich Union. The building’s design was pioneering at its time, utilising new techniques in unitised curtain walling and slim efficient construction methods. 30 years later, Scott Brownrigg revisited the building to bring it up to 21st Century standards for the competitive commercial market. Originally appointed to undertake a simpler interior refurbishment commission, it became apparent during the feasibility stages that exploring options to re-use the existing


1980s structure could bring a more attractive longer-term solution for client Aviva Investors.


By bringing the original outboard external column structure inside to extend the floor plates beyond the original envelope, infilling the former courtyard and by adding a new fifth floor, a further 25 per cent lettable space has been delivered for the client. In addition, a strategy for a total visual rebrand for the 63,375 ft2 building was undertaken to appeal to a speculative tenant. The building has now been let to McLaren Automotive.


Nick Ridout is project director at Scott Brownrigg


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ADF FEBRUARY 2019


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