SBERBANK HEADQUARTERS
Modular step cladding system
Moscow
32 Kutuzovsky prospect
2021
The design is complemented by an adjustment frame that ensures precise module alignment and compensates for unevenness in the supporting metal base. The solution is seamlessly integrated with engineering systems and concealed lighting
We created a cladding system for the tiered pedestal in the central atrium of the amphitheater using intricate geometry and a radial arrangement composed of 12 mm thick HPL panels
Modular step
cladding system
cladding system
CONSTRUCTION
material
12 mm HPL panels
Evolution Design
architect
property
headquarters
Engineering solutions
Protection against chips, rounding, and chamfering
Given the unique properties of HPL material, notably its fragility at the corners, and the expectation of considerable circulation in the atrium, we decided to adopt a solution through experimenting. Particularly, we created rounded chamfers on the step edges.
To confirm the effective protection and choose the ideal radius of curvature without sacrificing aesthetics, we ran trials that simulated a heel impact or a falling object
To confirm the effective protection and choose the ideal radius of curvature without sacrificing aesthetics, we ran trials that simulated a heel impact or a falling object
We initiated the project with a 3D scan of the existing metal staircase frame. The geometry of the base differed from the design, with deviations reaching 3 centimeters. This contrasted with the requirements for the mating of facing panels, which were less than 0.5 millimeters. Direct on-site facing would have resulted in visible gaps and a violation of the structure’s aesthetic integrity
3D scanning and the foundation problem
Panel mounting points and lighting are integrated into the module design, providing easy access for maintenance. Materials and design solutions comply with fire safety requirements (KM1)
Concealed fasteners and fire safety
Geometry and material complexity
Alignment and leveling frame
We developed an intermediate adjustment frame made of fire-resistant plywood. The frame elements were manufactured on CNC machines with an accuracy of 0.05 mm, which made it possible to level out the imperfections of the base and ensure the specified geometry of the final cladding
Processing 12 mm thick HPL panels requires special conditions since the material is hard, brittle, and prone to microcracks. To obtain clean radius parts, we used diamond tools and individually selected processing modes on CNC machines
Assembly process and production
PRELIMINARY ASSEMBLY AND FITTING IN THE WORKSHOP REDUCED INSTALLATION TIME BY 1.5 TIMES
Modularity principle and 100% factory readiness
identify and eliminate problems before shipping to the site
ensure the accuracy of all module connections
Ready-made modules tailored to each other were sent to the site, which enabled us to:
The complex structure of the atrium was divided into 170 modules. Each section of the atrium is pre-assembled and fitted together in our workshop
The process is comparable to assembling a large, precise construction set following instructions. The facility’s design and manufacturing stages are streamlined, eliminating the need for highly skilled staff.
Factory precision guarantees specified joints and geometry during installation, minimizing the risk of on-site errors
Factory precision guarantees specified joints and geometry during installation, minimizing the risk of on-site errors
result
result
AREA of the property is 165 M
THE ALIGNMENT FRAME CONTAINS 178 MODULES
Cladding: 115 MODULES
2
The atrium project exemplifies how an engineering approach can effectively tackle the challenge caused by an imperfect foundation. The designed adjustment frame made it possible to compensate for all deviations and create a complicated radial cladding built of HPL panels with set interfaces, no visible joints, and with chip protection