Robert Bird Group (RBG) provided structural, civil and geotechnical services for an art-inspired hotel as part of the redevelopment of Battersea Power Station (BPS). The hotel, which welcomes public art galleries, cafés and lounges from around the world, will also accommodate state-of-the-art rooftop facilities including a large garden, swimming pool and pavilion. Situated at the top of the building is a hanging double height restaurant space, allowing diners to overlook the views of Gehry & Partners cluster of contemporary residential buildings, as well as the iconic Battersea Power Station chimneys. The development of the hotel has been designed to incorporate the following:
- 16-storey building plus podium
- 3-levels of basement
- 164 keys
- Rooftop space to include a swimming pool, garden and pavilion
- Gym, spa and leisure facilities
- Restaurant and bars
- Large modern kitchen
- Multiple conference rooms
Key technical challenges
Each area of the hotel had its own unique technical challenges. RBG’s design met the needs of the client, architect and hotel developer. The varying needs of each area meant that a standard column grid was not possible in all locations. In addition, each different area came with its own loading and service penetration requirements. RBG’s challenge was to deliver a structural design that worked with these was constraints, which was achieved whilst maintaining programme and proactively working with all stakeholders to enhance the design.
Key technical solutions
RBG were able to provide our client with engineering solutions that allowed for discretionary changes to be made in the layouts if necessary. RBG worked closely with the architect and building services engineer to provide for the architectural and service requirements present in a modern hotel, ensuring flexibility in the structure. This included designing structural systems that were sympathetic to the architectural vision, such as transfer structures, hanging floorplates and double height columns.
By working directly with key stakeholders, RBG were able to provide opportunities that enhanced the architectural integrity of the hotel. RBG’s proposals led to changing the shape and location of structural columns in the building. This improved the open hotel lobby space and also removed part of the hanging structure in the iconic hotel restaurant to increase open views and dining flexibility.
Project Metrics
164 keys, 16-storey building + podium, 3-levels of basement, rooftop pool, garden and pavilion, conference rooms, gym, spa, restaurants, bars
Sectors:
Hotel & Resorts
Project Metrics
Client:
Battersea Power Station Development Company
Primary Contractor:
Keltbray Structures Limited
Architect:
Dexter Moren Associates, Foster + Partners
Robert Bird Group Services:
Structural, Civil and Geotechnical Engineering