Project Description

The extension to an existing Grade 1 listed 17th-century building creates new social spaces and access routes within an extremely narrow site in Cambridge, UK. The site constraints required lateral thinking, a temporary construction access route and installation of a temporary bridge over the river Cam. The new oak glulam frame structure which interfaces with the existing building, required careful consideration to ensure adequate structural connection, but at the same time minimising intrusive works to the historic structure and foundations. The timber engineering connection design minimised the use of steel brackets and offers a modern take on traditional carpentry jointing methods.

Judge’s comments

This timber extension to a heritage structure is a beautiful structural engineering solution. The site conditions were expertly dealt with. The innovative temporary construction access bridge facilitated material transport and neatly overcame access challenges. The use of a piled raft foundation reduced excavation and foundation loads, accommodating the constrained site conditions. Rigorous site investigations, planning, and monitoring ensured the preservation of historic structures and minimised disruption during construction.

The inspired lightweight glulam timber frame with unique connection detailing, utilised traditional carpentry jointing methods and CNC machining to achieve high durability with precise structural tolerances.

A sensitive integration of modern construction within a historic setting, maintaining the architectural integrity and heritage value of the site.

Project overview

Structural Designer

  • Smith and Wallwork Engineers

Client Name

  • Clare College, Cambridge

Location

  • Cambridge, United Kingdom

Architect

  • Witherford Watson Mann architects

Principal Contractor

  • Barnes Construction

Key Contractors

  • Henry Riley (Project manager and Cost consultant)

    Smith and Wallwork Engineers (Civil engineers)

    Max Fordham LLP (Services and acoustics engineers)

    Liz Lake Associates (Landscape architects)

    The Fire Surgery (Fire consultants)

    Turley (Planning consultant)

    Constructional Timber (Timber frame)

Year Submitted

  • 2024

Key attributes

  • Process