York Gate

Pick Everard joined the York Gate project along with a main contractor for the PCSA period, during a pivotal moment marked by the implementation of the Building Safety Act. This timing necessitated rigorous scrutiny and compliance to the newly established regulations. The primary challenges included ensuring all aspects of the building met the stringent new safety requirements, improving the building's functionality and engineering to provide a better living experience, implementing changes that would not only comply with safety standards but also optimise the project's budget, and working seamlessly with the main contractor to address the complex engineering and safety requirements.

Pick Everard leveraged its extensive expertise in the sector to address these challenges effectively. The team engaged with the HSE to initiate discussions and gain a clear understanding of the expected deliverables. Engineering and design adjustments were made, including the separation of lift cores to enhance safety and compliance, and the integration of escape evacuation lifts with each stair core to improve usability and safety.

Internal layout modifications were also implemented to enhance the building’s functionality, ensuring better flow and accessibility for residents. To maintain cost-effectiveness, optimised design solutions were applied, balancing compliance and functionality while keeping the project within budget.

Facade Design and Value Engineering

To ensure the design was both aesthetically pleasing and cost-effective, value engineering principles were applied without compromising the integrity of the design. High-quality, durable materials were selected to enhance thermal performance and reduce maintenance costs, contributing to the building's sustainability goals.

Fire Safety and Evacuation Routes

Engineering and design adjustments included the strategic incorporation of a second core to facilitate efficient fire escape routes. Smoke shafts were integrated into the design to ensure effective smoke extraction, enhancing the safety of residents in the event of an emergency. The separation of lift cores and the integration of escape evacuation lifts with each stair core improved usability and compliance with safety regulations.

Construction Strategies and Slab Edge Detailing

Advanced construction strategies were employed to ensure precision and efficiency in slab edge detailing, which is crucial for both structural integrity and aesthetic consistency. One of the primary challenges in slab edge design is achieving the necessary alignment and support while accommodating factors such as thermal expansion, load distribution, and potential deflection.

Similarly, careful consideration is required at window heads, where precise detailing is essential to manage water ingress, thermal bridging, and structural support. Additionally, these elements must comply with stringent fire regulations, ensuring that fire-stopping measures are effectively integrated.

The correct specification of materials and installation techniques at these critical junctions is vital to maintain fire safety, airtightness, weather resistance, and the overall performance and longevity of the building.