Airey Taylor Consulting would like to congratulate our collaborative partners Slavin Architects and the Shire of Manjimup for the win in the category of Steel Clad Structures in the 2018 Australian Steel Institute (WA) Awards for the Sandra Donovan Sound Shell.
Airey Taylor Consulting provided Structural Engineering services for the project, which adds a unique civic space for Manjimup residents to perform and experience music in an open air setting. This stage area sits atop an elongated concrete slab and footings that extend for the length of the entire building. The building behind the Shell consists of two green rooms, an enclosed assembly area with tea making facilities, and male and female toilets, uses steel framed construction for a durable and economical build. Extensive verandah space surrounds the facilities rooms.
Director John Taylor noted that the delivered building’s shell feature was an evolution of the original design, which called for the use of long cantilevered timber sections clad in plywood. This selection of materials presented considerable difficulties that required secondary arching of the structure to control deflections and provide a structural resolution. Structural Steel was ultimately chosen as the most appropriate material to deliver the bold vision of the architectural design.
The construction team of Smith Constructions, Liberty Onesteel, Southern Steelworks, Austruct Group and Dulux delivered a premium result that will be enjoyed by residents and visitors to the Shire for many years to come. Congratulations to the Shire of Manjimup for their commission of such a unique project that sets a benchmark for Western Australian civic features.
Images : Courtesy Slavin Architects
