Extensive refurbishment and conversion for new use
Project in brief
The premises at 14 - 18 Aston Quay is a hybrid multi-storey structure and is a designated
Protected Structure. It consists of four
storeys, over basement, with external
and internal load-bearing masonry
walls, historical steel framing with
cast iron columns, slated timber
double-pitched roofs, timber floors
and stairs.
The structure combines elements of four original Georgian Houses; Victorian modifications circa 1899 that unified the block; further changes circa 1986 that enhanced open plan retail space; and additional modifications post 1986. This project involved its development for retail use at basement and ground floor level; gymnasium at first floor level; and conversion of the previously abandoned second and third floor areas into luxury apartments.
The project included the refurbishment of the basement with cavity-drained construction; the construction of a basement swimming pool; and the refurbishment of the historical structure comprising timber floors on steel beams on cast iron columns.
14/18 Aston Quay, Dublin
Architects: Henry J. Lyons
Value: € 9.5m (2004)
Project scope:
- Basement Swimming Pool
- Retail Ground Floor
- Luxury Apartments
- Protected Structure
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Key features
Strengthening
Increased loading from the change of
use meant that the historical joists and
beams on ground and first floor level had
to be strengthened. This was achieved
by a combination of twinned joists, span
breaking beams, and beam stitching.
Flood control
The ground water level was just below
existing basement level and regularly
flooded when high tides coincided with
heavy rains. Flood control measures
were introduced into the drainage
system.
Swimming Pool Design
The construction of the basement
swimming pool needed extensive dewatering
and temporary works. The pool
services were incorporated in the pool
walls to avoid penetrations through the
drained-cavity construction.
Structural review
The wall thickness of the cast iron
columns was investigated on site to
ascertain the structural capacity of the
columns. The structural review of the
historical beam sections also
required a detailed site survey.
Historical Renovation
At LeeMcCullough we have
exceptional experience of revitalising
existing buildings, which is often more
complex than the structural
engineering of new buildings.
Over many projects we have addressed and resolved a wide range of issues, including:
- Strengthening historical joists and beams to carry increased loading
- Masonry Decay/Delamination
- Threading modern services into old structures
At LeeMcCullough we always seek to identify and resolve issues early, innovatively address demanding demanding building difficulties and deliver our solutions on time and cost efficiently.
When it comes to renovation and refurbishment, anticipating and resolving engineering issues effectively is the key to a successful outcome.
