CASTELNAU, BARNES

Combined Structures were appointed to provide a complete shell and core package to construct a new single residential dwelling in Barnes. The green field site with restricted access from Castelnau required outside the box thinking changing from costly restricted access piling to a solution involving a level of open dig and lower level of temporary works to form the basement within budget. The scope includes the full weather tight superstructure providing a high thermal efficiency and air tightness driven by Passivhaus standards

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Client: Private Client
Main Contractor: West Nine Construction
Architect: Humble + Humble
Engineer: Structural Design Studio
Package Value: £3m

SCOPE:

Basement
Shell and Core

The Challenge

The project involved the construction of a high-performance luxury dwelling on a restricted access site with only a 2.5-meter-wide access point. This limited space presented significant challenges in delivering both basement construction and the superstructure. The team had to carefully plan and coordinate the delivery of materials, use compact machinery, and implement innovative techniques to work within the tight constraints, all while maintaining the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship for the luxury dwelling.

The Process

In the planning phase, the team collaborated with the engineer to revise the basement design due to restricted access. Piling was replaced with open-dig excavation, and temporary works were planned to support the lower excavation levels. Careful coordination of material deliveries and access routes ensured efficiency. This approach allowed the design to meet both structural and logistical needs for the project’s success.

The Solution

Given the restricted access, the basement construction approach was adapted from piling to a more suitable solution involving open-dig excavation. The team carried out the lower level of excavation supported by temporary works to ensure stability. Compact machinery was used for efficient material delivery, and excavation was carefully managed to minimise disruption. The superstructure was built with precision, adhering to high-performance luxury standards while ensuring safety and quality throughout each stage of the project.