PROJECT
SWC, ERNECAMPUS, ENNISKILLEN
Donegal Limestone rock. “We had to cut out 15,000 cubic metres of rock to the east of the site and then place 1,200 cubic metres of concrete to trench-fill the western half,” said Donal. “The building subsequently is constructed as two independent structures incorporating a movement joint at their connection.” Another challenge was designing and constructing a structural steel-framed building without any thermal bridging to comply with the Passive House Premium principle. “Obviously zero thermal bridging is a big challenge on any building. Our approach to this challenge was early engagement with our design team to ensure the design was tested, modeled and proven before fabrication commenced. Connection details had thermal bridge separators anywhere the envelope was penetrated, for example maintenance walkways, brise soleil structural support, etc.” This ensured the successful delivery of a thermal bridge-free building envelope. A further enormous challenge was the air tightness target of 0.6 ac/h@ n50.
(Building Regulations requirement for air tightness is typically 2 – 4 m3/h.) “We had to carefully consider every element in the building element from structural supports penetrating the elevations, fixing 3,000sqm of solar panels on the roof, external door and window specifications and installation etc,” explained Donal. LEGACY This complex construction project – so full of ‘firsts’ – has become a living laboratory for study into energy efficiency and conservation and sustainable construction. “Students can see what’s been built around them and learn from it,” said Donal. “You can experience just how successful this construction model is. It’s created a very comfortable building, one that seems to exude a calming effect.” The Erne Campus is a flagship for sustainable construction. Its pioneering Passive House Premium standard and modern design and construction push the boundaries of technology in almost
Client: South West College Design and Build Contractor: Tracey Brothers Architect & Passive House Designer: Mullarkey Pedersen Architects Civil and Structural Engineer: Albert Fry Associates Mechanical & Electrical Consultants: Semple & McKillop Contractors Project Manager: Donal McGloin PROJECTTEAM... every aspect of construction, with technologies that are leading edge and, in many instances, unique and bespoke for this project. Donal concluded, “As the design and build contractor we are delighted and proud to have been involved with the Project Team in delivering this iconic building.”
Tracey Brothers, Drumlyon House, Drumlyon, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, BT74 5TB T: +44 (0)28 6632 3471 - E: mail@traceybros.com www.traceybros.com
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