One Blackfriars
is a new iconic, mixed-use development situated on the south side of
Blackfriars Bridge overlooking the River Thames. Its prime location has
unobstructed views of St. Paul’s Cathedral as well as the river toward
Westminster and Tower Bridge. RAM Concept was utilized for the centerpiece of
the development, which is a stunning 170-meter-high tower. The building is a
geometric masterpiece that creates an elegant silhouette on London’s skyline.
The 50-story tower accommodates 274 homes, a private viewing lounge, and a
multi-level penthouse crowned within the glass rooftop structure. Taking
advantage of RAM Concept, the tower’s column configuration was optimized for
the complex 3D geometry ensuring the design was at once structurally sound and
visually iconic. The vison for the project was to inspire future generations of
designers and add a stylish statement to London’s skyline.
WSP was contracted to design the structural framing solution
that would fit the proposed apartment layouts. The entire development is built
over a three-story basement structure housing a swimming pool and spa
facilities. A private cinema, wine storage, and parking for residents are also
provided in the basement. A top-down construction sequence for the basement
saved time on construction. The piling configuration was arranged to enable
temporary and permanent works to be combined to increase efficiency. All
structures are reinforced concrete frame elements. The hotel and tower floors
make use of thin post-tensioned slabs for a maximum floor to floor height
efficiency. Once the design was completed, MicroStation-based structural
drawings were issued to the design team, including the architect, client,
contractor, and quantity surveyor for pricing. The cladding contractor was also
able to utilize the model for façade design.
For this GBP 200 million project, WSP knew that with this innovative design no layout or floor plan would be the same. The design team used RAM Concept to model and design 225-millimeter thick post-tensioned concrete floors. Post-tensioned concrete was considered the most cost-effective solution based on minimum structural zone and reduced self-weight of floors, which allowed for maximum slab spans. RAM Concept’s ease of use allowed for multiple design development options to be explored throughout the design process.
For this GBP 200 million project, WSP knew that with this innovative design no layout or floor plan would be the same. The design team used RAM Concept to model and design 225-millimeter thick post-tensioned concrete floors. Post-tensioned concrete was considered the most cost-effective solution based on minimum structural zone and reduced self-weight of floors, which allowed for maximum slab spans. RAM Concept’s ease of use allowed for multiple design development options to be explored throughout the design process.
RAM Concept enabled WSP to push the structural design to the
maximum limit, providing innovative designs for each bespoke room and floor.
The software saved considerable time throughout all stages of the project and
allowed multiple iterations and changes to the design to be explored and
adopted from initial design proposal stage through construction. With RAM
Concept, WSP ensured that this innovative design was in full compliance with
European design codes and automated drawing productions from MicroStation for
client and design team coordination.
“Bentley’s RAM Concept and MicroStation software packages
enabled WSP to design and deliver one of the most iconic projects in Europe.
The software was very effective to coordinate and design cost-efficient and
environmentally friendly solutions for the benefit of the client and the local
community. The project stands proud as a centerpiece for architectural and
engineering excellence.” Aret Garip, Technical Director, WSP, UK.
