Victoria Point | Melbourne

High Rise Structures

Urban environments are becoming increasingly dependent on the efficient use of space. As a result, high rise structures have become the solution of choice for creating large amounts of useable space within a small geographic area. High rise structures present unique engineering challenges. The effects of wind and earthquakes on these highly-loaded, sensitive buildings must be carefully considered. The design solutions must adequately address buildability, especially considering that completing the structure on most high rise projects is a critical path activity in the overall construction programme.

Robert Bird Group have broad experience in the delivery of buildings in excess of 250 metres in height, and are familiar with all facets of structural framing and their suitability for different building heights, shapes, performance criteria and geotechnical conditions.

Wind Response of High-Rise Structures
Robert Bird Group has accumulated an extensive knowledge base on the wind sensitivity of a wide range of high rise structures. Our engineers have carried out analytical studies complemented by wind tunnel testing at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia for structural response, occupant comfort and perceptibility, as well as cladding pressures and other environmental aspects.  Design solutions on past projects have involved the use of concrete, steel or combined structural systems, use of damping mechanisms to control movement, and advanced 4D structural modelling.

Earthquake Engineering
Robert Bird Group is an earthquake engineering pioneer with regard to innovation, research, analysis and design. Activities undertaken by our technical specialist group include two ongoing earthquake engineering research projects. In addition, our project team has been trained in earthquake engineering by the Institute of Engineers at Queensland University Technology. Robert Bid Group has also provided assistance to other organisations regarding the development of analytical software for earthquake engineering.

Coordination of Structure
There are significant financial and planning advantages to be gained through the efficient coordination of structure vertically through a development, particularly with regard to high-rise structures. This task becomes more complex in a mixed use development as ideal wall and column layouts for residential purposes rarely suit retail or car parking areas where more column-free space is desired.  

Innovative concept design minimises the impact of these mixed uses, as the horizontal transfer of vertical elements in high rise buildings results in increased building height, increased cladding costs, increased mechanical services costs and additional structure. Construction time may also be reduced if the vertical structure is coordinated to run continuously through the development as much as possible.

Buildability
Robert Bird Group has developed a reputation for delivering innovative, simple and highly buildable solutions for high rise structures. Our capabilities extend to:
  • Assisting with construction sequencing
  • Planning of jump-form or slip-form systems for vertical element construction
  • Coordination of wall, column and slab designs to suit preferred cycle times and construction methods
  • Analysis of structural elements for temporary, potentially unbraced conditions
  • Coordination of structure to suit preferred joint locations, materials stacking areas, and site access requirement

Robert Bird Group work closely with architects and proactively drive the preliminary design phase towards adopting a minimal number of structural transfers to reduce construction time and cost. Where these transfers cannot be avoided (or where they can be used as an architectural feature) our project team uses its experience to deliver innovative transfer structure solutions to achieve the aims of the architect and the client.



  • 333 Ann Street | Brisbane

    333 Ann Street | Brisbane

  • 275 George Street | Brisbane

    275 George Street | Brisbane