THE PROJECT /

Technology and creativity converged to create Victoria’s largest court complex outside the CBD, including 13 courtrooms, four hearing rooms, three mediation suites and 26 holding cells.

Part of this unique design was a light-filled curved atrium with soft, curved features to foster a therapeutic justice environment, with abundant natural light and a calming neutral palette.

As with all unique architectural designs, the challenge is in the construction.

The proposed atrium features were also detailed to include large quantities of structural steel which would have resulted in a slow and inefficient install process, along with unnecessary costs.

THE CORTEK STEEL FRAMING SOLUTION /

Cortek was approached by a contractor to provide solutions using pre-fabricated lightweight alternatives to cut down on the install time, and save on site costs.

Specific engineering requirements for crowd loading and lateral stability, and the ability to integrate finishes added to the complexity of the design. With limited information available, Cortek drew on extensive experience, collaborating with the required parties to achieve the design intent.

A thorough redesign process resulted in solutions that eliminated significant structural steel without sacrificing structural integrity. Our scope including framing of ceilings, internal balustrades, and the seamless integration of bulkheads, captivating design cohesion throughout the building.

Frames were shop detailed and 3D modelled, and manufactured in a quality-controlled environment using light gauge steel. Compared to a stick-built structure, frames arriving on site ready for immediate installation saved the contractors significant time.

In the words of the installer:

Cortek’s framing went together very easy, we’re very happy with the outcome!