FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF APARTMENT BLOCKS B AND C ON KOLKPLEIN IN SPIJKENISSE, PELECON STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS IS PROVIDING ADVICE ON THE STRUCTURE AND CARRYING OUT STRUCTURAL QUALITY CONTROLS DURING CONSTRUCTION. COMMISSIONED BY HAAGSEBAAN VASTGOED B.V., THIS PROJECT DEMONSTRATES HOW IMPORTANT A FLEXIBLE AND PRACTICAL CONSTRUCTION APPROACH IS IN BALANCING PLANNING, QUALITY AND FEASIBILITY.
FROM TRADITIONAL TO PREFAB
The original brief involved designing and further developing the main load-bearing structure for the apartment blocks. However, during the construction phase, the decision was taken to change the construction method. In order to achieve the desired construction speed, a decision was made – in consultation with the client and the contractors – to opt for a structure using prefabricated elements.
This change had major implications for the structural design. The entire structure had to be adapted within a very short timeframe, so that suppliers and prefabricated element manufacturers could be provided with the correct specifications in good time. This required quick thinking, in-depth structural knowledge and close collaboration with all parties involved.
ADVICE FOCUSED ON MANUFACTURABILITY AND SPEED
Pelecon not only investigated whether the switch to prefabrication was structurally feasible, but also advised on the most efficient solutions and alternatives. In doing so, it constantly assessed manufacturability, the production capabilities of the prefabricated elements and the impact on the construction schedule.
Within the modified design, measures included replacing all load-bearing sand-lime brick walls with prefabricated concrete elements; replacing the wide-slab floors with prestressed solid slabs combined with a layer of foam concrete; using solid concrete for the balconies; and adapting the façade construction to use prefabricated elements. These optimisations made it possible to significantly speed up the construction process without compromising structural safety or quality.
CONSTRUCTION QUALITY CONTROL DURING THE CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Pelecon’s involvement does not end with the design phase. Structural quality checks are also carried out during construction to ensure that the structure is actually built as designed. For example, checks are carried out on site on the reinforcement that has been installed, before the concrete is poured. During these inspections, checks are made to ensure that the reinforcement has been installed entirely in accordance with the structural drawings. After all, correct positioning, cover and detailing are essential for the strength, safety and durability of the building. By carrying out these checks in good time, any deviations can be identified and corrected immediately. This minimises failure costs, keeps the schedule on track and guarantees the quality of the final result.
COLLABORATION AS THE KEY TO SUCCESS
We were commissioned for this project by Haagsebaan Vastgoed BV and worked in collaboration with various construction partners, including Van Boxsel Engineering, MBS Cascobouw, Dycore, Goudriaan Staalconstructies and Staton Bouw. It was precisely this intensive collaboration between the client, the structural engineer, suppliers and contractors that made it possible to fully convert the structure to a prefabricated solution within a very short timeframe.
SMART STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING FOR A MORE EFFICIENT CONSTRUCTION PROCESS
This project demonstrates that structural engineering goes far beyond simply carrying out calculations. By actively contributing ideas on alternative structures, construction methods and implementation processes, Pelecon helps to ensure a more efficient construction process, a faster construction pace and a high-quality end result. Kolkplein in Spijkenisse is therefore a fine example of how structural engineering expertise, flexibility and collaboration lead to a future-proof apartment complex that meets the highest standards in terms of safety, quality and feasibility.