Construction Technology L3 Elmbank

Question 1

Explain your advice about extending/remodelling and how you designed the scheme to meet the client’s needs.

Answer 1

1. I established the functional and spatial requirements of the client.
2. I advised on the practical and legal&regulatory issues to accommodate the requirements within the available space.
3. I developed two-floor plans as options 1 and 2.
4. Option 1 was based on extending one of the existing buildings and option 2 on replacing both existing with a new single unit.

Question 2

Explain the advice you gave in respect of the different options available.

Answer 2

1. Connecting the two existing units with a central extension was ineffective due to differences in floor levels and the layout of the existing modular unit.
2. Extending the timber frame building was technically feasible using timber frame construction, but construction would take approximately six months to complete on site.
3. Replacing both with a single modular unit was achievable within the six-week summer holidays, therefore, minimising disruption.
4. Using SIPS technology the existing timber frame could be extended with a weather-tight structure over the six weeks holiday but the internal fit-out would take another six weeks or more to complete. This would be less disruptive than option 2.

Question 3

Explain the advice you gave in respect of replacing both existing buildings – what advantages did this offer?

Answer 3

This would deliver a finished building to the agreed layout within the six weeks holiday, presenting the least disruption.

Question 4

What advice did you give in respect of the timescales for the completion of the works?

Answer 4

1. Timber frame takes approximately 4 to six months on site.
2. Modular had a 4 to six-month lead, but the demolition, foundations, services and installation could be completed within the six-week summer holiday.