Durham University update 2 - the offsite construction approach that secured the contract

An insight into the offsite build system approach and digital design

The reason PCE secured the project

The Mount Oswald Student Accommodation project at, Durham University has been secured through PCE Ltd's ability to offer Interserve a high quality, offsite build system approach which will deliver all of the cluster accommodation, as fast as alternative volumetric systems, and also provide the required varied integrated façade solution which is sympathetic to the existing architecture and is also contemporary for the newer parts of the University.

PCE’s flexible delivery model has meant that a holistic system build strategy could be adopted with everything, including foundations, being delivered utilising offsite engineered precast concrete components. This will result in significant reductions in the construction period, on site man hours, site deliveries and carbon footprint compared to that of a traditional construction approach.

PCE's design focus

The initial design processes for all of the structural components has been driven to achieve an amalgamation of element interfaces with high repeatability. These  interfaces have been developed in a 3D environment for cost effective ease of product manufacture and on-site build using PCE’s proven structural system philosophies. PCE has provided a key benefit for the client by the use of fully integrated architectural precast units to form the buildings façade solutions. These units are manufactured in a controlled offsite factory environment thus enabling the very high specification requirements to be achieved. Other benefits include a reduction in the number of other trades onsite that a project of this scope would normally require, whilst improved co-ordination of the complete build process maximises efficiencies with regards to quality, programme, waste and resultant carbon footprint. With PCE’s constant progressive design and manufacture ethos, part of the PCE HybriDfMA approach, the scheme at the design stage was able to be challenged with a fresh approach and new ideas to overcome project intricacies and thus meet the client's important requirements.

Durham University are working with partners Interserve, Campus Living Villages and Equitix to deliver the project.