Structural support on a curved steel-framed structure
The Curve Library and Cultural Centre is part of a major regeneration effort of Slough Town Centre. The £17 million building provides a three-storey space for a new central library, as well as performance and teaching spaces, offices, and a cafe. The building is the centrepiece of the ‘Heart of Slough’ regeneration scheme opened in September 2016.
We carried out Level 2 Building Information Modelling (BIM) on the project for the structural and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) design, in conjunction with architects BBlur and CZWG. The architect’s concept, which received planning permission in 2010, creates a building as a flared accommodation tube with welcoming, fully glazed entry facades on the east and west—these open onto two new public squares, created at each end of the building. These public spaces anchor the building in the heart of the town centre, providing safe external space for use by the building.
The building achieves a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ score using photovoltaic panels on the roof and with an embodied carbon footprint reduction of 600 tonnes of carbon dioxide compared to the original scheme. The Curve creates a welcoming pedestrian link for the community between William Street, through to Mackenzie Square, and the two new urban squares at each end of the building enriches the route with places to pause and enjoy the building in its space.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
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- Morgan Sindall
- Architect of Record
- bblur architecture
- Award
- 2017 Structural Steel Design Awards: Commendation
- Image Credit
- Slough Urban Renewal
Kevin Clarke, Director, Structural Engineering
Understanding a client’s aspirations and working within an integrated design team to bring an idea to life is a truly rewarding experience.
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