Deakin Private Hospital – Seismic Retrofits that Save
Do you need to upgrade an existing buildings without breaking the bank? We’re in your corner to help save costs together.
Deakin Private Hospital, a new private mental heath facility and a central hub for Allied Health Consulting in Canberra, required an existing office building to be upgraded and made fit for purpose. For the project to remain financially viable the original 1980’s masonry, steel, and concrete structure needed to be retained as much as possible.
A challenge associated with this project was bringing the existing structure up to current code. Analysis found it inadequate to withstand the loads prescribed in the current Earthquake Code. Adding to complexity, strict sway requirements under seismic conditions needed to be satisfied to ensure the unreinforced masonry façade would not fail in a seismic event.
By combining existing steel frames with new braces, we successfully reinforced the structure without excessive material costs, minimising both new steel tonnage and environmental impact. Our solutions enabled the client to progress with a safer, compliant, and cost-effective facility that supports the community’s mental health needs. Balancing structural efficiency with cost efficiency achieved the desired project outcomes.
If we can assist with your project goals, we would love to help. Reach out to discuss how we can collaborate on smart engineering solutions.
Contributor(s)
