Project Description
The Red Sea Marine Life Institute (RSMLI) is part of the overall Amaala Marina development.
The RSMLI, which will have research and development facilities to study ocean conservation initiatives, is shaped to imitate ocean coral. The superstructure comprises four sets of standing pods with a large shade structure, both mimicking coral polyps. The suspended structure spans up to 30m between the standing pods.
The building also includes a "Grand Reveal" aquarium which extends below the surface water level in the lower ground level of the primary standing pod. The Grand Reveal is 20m deep and comprises acrylic panels supported from the primary steel frame.
Project Challenges
RBG were engaged by the AMAALA to identify Value Engineering Opportunities and investigate how the structural scheme could be optimised from a constructability perspective.
This included the design and installation of:
- Grand Reveal
- Standing Towers
- Suspended Shade Structure
Added Value
RBG developed a Construction Methodology and Erection Sequence (CMES), which maximised the use of off-site preassembly which enabled more concurrent work fronts be in operation in parallel on this constrained site. The CMES provided a methodology for the entire construction including the works in the reef and installation of the Grand Reveal acrylic panels.
In addition to developing the CMES and visualising it through REVEAL, value engineering of the basement and steel superstructure identified a number of material savings which could be made.
The CMES and VE Opportunities introduced through RBG's review and analysis of the structure were implemented by the Architect and Engineer and ultimately significantly reduced the anticipated construction duration and project cost.