MAS Architecture received the coveted Best Use of Steel trophy at the 2021 Offsite Awards! As we start to prepare for this year's event, we take a look at the project in more detail…
Located in Selly Oak, Birmingham – 504 Bristol designed by MAS Architecture is a new build mixed-use scheme involving commercial units on the ground floor and prestigious student accommodation set across four floors above, topped by a largely glazed and setback fifth floor.
Only a stone's throw from the University of Birmingham, the student accommodation comprises 70 self-contained luxury studios with various communal spaces.
The challenge for MAS Architecture was to provide a building of architectural merit that was equal to the Victorian building which occupied the site. Designed with references to the shipbuilding industry made 504 Bristol unique but challenging to construct. The highly restricted access and time constraints meant the best construction solution would be hot rolled steel frame on the ground floor supporting a Comflor Transfer Deck to take four floors of cold rolled structural loadbearing steel above.
A lightweight steel solution by Hadley Steel Framing was ideal for this project. As a manufacturer they wanted to demonstrate that the conical form could be delivered utilising their light steel frame system. As steel is such a versatile construction material, MAS Architecture were able achieve the innovative design as well as creating a structure that is both durable and safe.
A highly cost-effective digital approach produced steel framing systems that could be 'virtually tested' and rapidly produced, reducing design and manufacturing time whilst simultaneously ensuring outstanding quality and accuracy.
Costs were easier to predict, as design specifications were met thereby reducing the cost of snagging and remedial works. Offsite prefabrication meant the frames were delivered when necessary. This quick turnaround meant costs such as plant hire and site management were vastly reduced and the project was delivered well ahead of schedule. The client and contractor were provided with a watertight building within three weeks, which allowed them to commence internal building work and the installation of the cladding system simultaneously.
Project Team:
Client: Avaro Midlands
Architects: MAS Architecture
Building Contractors: Hive Developments
Structural Engineers: Howard Ward Associates
Consulting Engineers: PRP
M&E Engineers: SVM Building Services
Chartered Surveyors: Edward Cooper Young
Building Compliance: Salus Approved Inspectors
Offsite Awards 2022:
This year's Offsite Awards will take place on 20 September as part of Offsite Expo at the Coventry Building Society Arena, Coventry. Covering all offsite building technologies and construction sectors, these prestigious awards look to those who are at the forefront of the industry in terms of innovation and expertise.
If you think you have an award-worthy project, product or team then why not enter?
Submissions are free of charge and the final deadline to enter is 27 May!
For details head to: www.offsiteawards.co.uk
Stay in touch:
