Steeped in History
Symmetrys have been instructed to undertake the structural engineering design of a new roof top terrace development to the existing Burleigh House, 355-359 Strand.
This is a project steeped in history. Burleigh House was originally constructed as a block of terraced houses and shops between the years of 1830-1832 as part of the West Strand improvements, planned by John Nash. The National Archives show several photographs prior to a façade retention scheme that took place post WWII. Further redevelopment of building took place in the 1990’s which again involved façade retention and extensive refurbishment works. The existing mansard roofs were added during these works and construction of the reinforced concrete frame was carried out too. The structural frame comprises of ribbed slabs spanning between band beams that in turn span between reinforced concrete columns.
The site is located on The Strand a critical Central London though-fare and therefore site logistics has been the driving force for many of our structural solutions. Careful, consideration has been given to off-site construction to minimise site traffic. Incumbent tenants who will use the building during the works also add to the challenge. The proposed works will exert additional load on the structure and the existing roof does not have the capacity to take the increased loads. Symmetrys have therefore developed options to retain the existing structure and provided neat, innovative, sustainable, solutions to strengthen the existing steel beams on site.
