Constructing Environments

Week 05: MSLE Building Structural Concept

Description/Classification of the Structural Systems

On the extension of the Melbourne School of Land and Environment Building, we can see from the plans that the existing footing remained however, new concrete slabs were set down 100mm below FFC (Finished Floor Level). Furthermore, the pad footing was stripped rather than isolated.

Primary and Secondary StructurePrimary

The primary and secondary structures, both vertical and horizontal included beams and columns, the existing framework, the slab, the roof and the pre-existing brick walls. These primary structures essentially create the foundations which ensure the building is able to stand and withstand its own weight.

Secondary

The secondary structures, again both vertical and horizontal included the walls, the plaster –board and the insulation. Other secondary structures include door ways, window frames etc. Each of these secondary structures function to hold up other things rather than the building itself.

Graphic Structural DiagramsIn the second part of this weeks work sheet we considered some of the graphic structural diagrams used to represent the primary and secondary structures. Below are a few sketches completed to illustrated these structures. Primary Structures

One example of a primary structure is footing. Within the MSLE there is stripped pad footing. A diagrammatic representation of this can be seen in figure 1.

Figure 1 – Footing

Source: Journal Author

Primary StructuresIn Figure 2, we can see a diagrammatic representation of a brick wall and a plaster board. This is a pre-existing brick wall situated perpendicular to the extension. Identifying it is not difficult and can be done using the symbolic representation of materials seen in the next slide.

Figure 2: Primary Structures

Source: ENVS10003 Subject Guide