Opportunities were developed between the design team and precast concrete contractors to develop a construction methodology and design outcomes to create an efficient structural solution and achieve a dynamic aesthetic.
The precast concrete package utilises the material as cladding and the primary structural components of the building. During construction, the exterior precast walls were extended to aid safe work practices, minimising the need for expensive scaffolding and increasing the speed and ease of construction.
The project includes a number of functional shared spaces, including an outdoor communal kitchen and vegetable gardens, and informal indoor 'library' nooks where tenants can share books and each other's company. In fact, just about every element of the design is purposed to bring the tenants together and reinforce the sense of community that is the driving principle behind Common Ground. In doing so, it underlines the premise that good architecture isn't just about great buildings, but transforming lives in a positive way.
Benefits of using concrete:
- Value for Money
- Reduced requirement for expensive scaffolding
- Versatile material - use of textures to create variety
- Structure as classing
- Robust Material - fit for purpose
- Minimal ongoing maintenance
- Valued outcomes
- Articulation of building form - creates individuality between communal spaces and private spaces, and also between individual apartments
- Ease and speed of construction