Structural Projects

SCE has experience over a wide variety of structural projects, from new builds, renovations and change of use.  Following is a selection of the types of structural projects we undertake.

Peninsula School, Senior Science Centre and Science Building Q Refurbishment

Customer: Peninsula School

Client: McIldowie Partners

The main part of the project consists of a new $3.5 million dollar science teaching facility.

The existing Science Building Q was also refurbished. This involved the removal of internal brick walls to create a light filled foyer and common learning space. The existing roof was retained and new structure installed to replace the supporting walls.

We invested a lot of time in the schematic design of the works to maximize the cost benefits to the client. The greater the time and knowledge/experience invested by your engineer at the start of the project the greater the potential gain in terms of construction cost savings, both in terms of buildability and design simplicity.

Construction photos (Jan 2016):

Wesley Arts Building Extension

Client: Wesley College

The school wanted to extend an existing building to create a new classroom and art display area and modify the egress paths from the building.

It was primarily a structural job so we:

• met with client stakeholders to discuss user requirements,
• met with the building surveyor to discuss design requirements in relation to the egress paths,
• met with the preferred builder prior to commencing the design to discuss suitable construction methods,
• surveyed the existing site and prepared existing condition and demolition documents,
• prepared layout drawings and structural and civil drawings of the proposed works,
• project managed the Council planning approvals process,
• worked closely with the builder during construction to ensure site issues were resolved satisfactorily and the build was completed without significant variations. 

Mont Park Asylum Refurbishment

Client: Ivanhoe Grammar c/ Debtech

The school is undertaking a refurbishment and structural modification two heritage listed terraces at the old Mont Park Asylum in Macleod.

SCE was appointed to carry out a review of the existing structure to determine the feasibility of modifications including column removal, stair relocation and to determine the need for any repairs. We carried out a thorough investigation on site to map the existing structure including opening up finishes, carrying out footing probes and investigating roof structure and load paths. Construction documentation was prepared in conjunction with the preferred builder and architect.

Private Residence, Aviation Rd, Point Cook

Client: Bayley Ward Architects

The client prepared a design for a new residence with an industrial look. Features include large open-plan living spaces with a steel roof and a large rammed earth wall that separates the living areas from the bedrooms.

The site is on the Werribee River flood plains so the ground structure was designed as suspended on bored piers to support the structure and proposed rammed earth walls. The roof design included large spans, exposed steelwork and feature skylights so the detailing required careful attention.

32 Hill Rd, Balwyn North

Architect: Cheg Architecture 

The existing building was built in the early 1950’s by a retired naval officer. The back section of the house was removed and extended over 2 levels while the front heritage section was maintained.

The works included design of extensive modifications of the existing structure including removal of structural walls. We developed a construction sequence that protects the existing brick structure above (extract of construction sequence shown). The sequence was very detailed so that the tendering Contractors had a full picture of the intended works, this reduced the likelihood of variations after they commenced construction.

Prior to removal of structural walls:                         After installation of steel and removal of structural walls:

Wesley College, Extensions to Junior School and Access Improvement

Client: Wesley College

The College proposed to modify two sections of the existing structure. They had a clear idea of what they wanted to do so we were engaged to investigate the existing structure and drainage and to develop structural and pavement drawings. These would then be given to a builder to flesh out the works.

The first part involved enclosing a space below an existing canopy to form a winter garden that could be used as an external space in summer. An operable facade was designed together with details for strengthening the existing roof structure.

The second involved an extension to increase the size of an existing vestibule, including a new slab, roof and façade. The pavement outside was also modified to enable handicap access with a new ramp, landings and sloped pavements in accordance with AS 1428.

The design was worked out with the client directly. They appreciated our hands on approach, our sensitivity to costs, and our ability to deliver the project independently. Structural, façade and civil services were provided.