Scape Lachlan, Kensington Render
The Project
Scape Lachlan is a two-tower student accommodation project consisting of an 18 and a 9-storey tower currently in construction at Kensington Sydney.
The Construction Challenge
When a construction site lacks access to one boundary to install temporary anchors, an alternative method must be employed. Our Sydney construction company team recently faced this challenge with Scape Lachlan with no anchoring access available for the western boundary. The preferred method employed was designing for Top-Down Construction.
This unique construction technique was chosen as it addressed the following issues:
- Lateral Support from Slabs: The primary challenge with deep excavation is ensuring lateral stability of the perimeter retention system. In top-down construction, each floor slab acts as a horizontal support, effectively bracing the perimeter retention system against lateral earth pressures.
- Sequential Support: As each new level is excavated, the slabs above provide support, maintaining stability throughout the construction process.
Advantages of Top-Down Construction include:
- Enhanced Stability: Continuous support provided by slabs ensures the stability of the perimeter retention system.
- Speed and Efficiency: Allows for simultaneous construction of superstructure and substructure, potentially speeding up the project timeline.
What is The Top-Down Construction Method?
1. Preparation:
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- Site Investigation: Conduct thorough geotechnical investigations to understand soil conditions, groundwater levels, and other site-specific challenges.
- Design: Develop a detailed design that includes the structural and construction sequences, ensuring stability at each stage.
2. Installation of the perimeter retention system:
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- Secant Piles: These were installed around the perimeter of the excavation site. The secant piles are interlocking continuous flight auger (CFA) concrete piles.
3. Construction of Slabs:
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- Initial Slab (to the Ground Floor): The ground floor slab is constructed first. This slab provides lateral support to the perimeter retention system.
- Sequential Excavation and Slab Construction: Excavation proceeds under the ground floor slab. The basement levels are then constructed sequentially as the excavation progresses downward eg. B1 then B2. Each slab provides additional lateral support to the perimeter retention system.
Excavation and Removal of Soil:
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- Incremental Excavation: Soil was excavated in stages, one level at a time, and removed through openings left in the slabs.
- Temporary Supports: Temporary supports were used to ensure stability during each stage of excavation.
4. Completion of Structural Elements:
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- Lower Levels and Foundation: Continue excavation and construction of lower slabs and finally the foundation slab.
- Vertical Elements: Construct vertical structural elements such as columns and core walls that extend from the foundation to the roof.
This unique construction solution has provided Infinity Constructions with an efficient and viable solution for deep excavation for our unanchored western project wall for the Scape Lachlan project.
Infinity Constructions: Your Trusted Partner for High-Value Construction Projects In Sydney
At Infinity Constructions, we transcend the realm of a typical Sydney construction company. We’re a collaborative force of technical specialists dedicated to exceeding expectations for high-net-worth individuals, property developers, and investors.
Unparalleled Expertise for Your Sydney Construction Project:
- Pre-Construction Planning: Our meticulous feasibility studies, cost analyses, and value engineering strategies ensure your project starts with a rock-solid foundation.
- Design & Construct (D&C) Services: Experience a seamless workflow with our single-source solution. We manage both design and construction phases for optimal efficiency, clear communication, and streamlined project delivery.
- Advanced Construction Management: Leverage our team’s in-depth expertise for expert oversight, rigorous cost control measures, and unwavering adherence to your project schedule.
- Sustainable Construction Solutions: We integrate cutting-edge, environmentally friendly practices and materials throughout the construction process, minimizing your project’s environmental impact while maximizing its long-term value.
Unlocking Sydney’s Development Potential:
Don’t settle for generic construction services. Our team of highly qualified professionals possesses the technical prowess and experience to transform your vision into a reality that shapes Sydney’s skyline.
Schedule Your Consultation Today:
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