- Light, column-free construction in laminated veneer lumber.
- Modular and prefabricated timber elements.
- 3D modelling techniques used to place supporting ribs.
This unique canteen is an extension of an existing school building and is used daily for dining and social activities.
The unusual roof structure is created using a new timber construction method developed by Arup for this project.
Every architectural element also has a structural purpose, minimising material use and costs. The roof is a new and very light timber shell structure. This innovative building technique uses laminated veneer lumber with a thickness of only 50mm.
This remarkably thin structure spans 10m without any supporting columns. To stiffen the roof, various load-bearing timber ribs in different lengths and orientations are fixed underneath.
The arrangement of the load-bearing ribs appears random, but Arup used 3D building modelling techniqes to analyse structural behaviour and place the ribs in exactly the right places.
The unique roof design allows wide-span and column-free construction. Prefabrication of all elements increases efficiency and minimises use of materials, reducing time and costs.
The light roof structure does not require supporting beams that connect to walls, allowing elegant and simple joins to be made. The rib structure also provides good acoustics in the room.
Because the elements and techniques created for this project are light, modular and prefabricated, they can be used to refurbish or strengthen existing buildings in urban areas in the future.
Freedom in architecture and unusual building geometries become possible with these new construction methods.