Specific construction solutions
Given the span of the cantilevers and the significant loads acting on the slab edges, Andrea Ferraresi’s structural design work focused particularly on the two most critical aspects of the project – foundations and slab cantilevers – to identify specific construction solutions capable of enhancing overall strength and efficiency.
For the foundations, a special underpinning work system was developed, allowing the client to avoid the use of micropiles – a widely tested but more expensive technology – resulting in considerable financial savings. Portions of the existing building structure were partially preserved and integrated into the new load-bearing system of the tower, while the casting of the new foundations proceeded simultaneously with the demolition of the old building. The technical solution adopted also enabled significant space savings in terms of site organization.
Key concept: lightness
Another significant aspect concerned the floor slabs, whose self-weight and structural behavior at the cantilever sections had to be modified to prevent potential critical issues. To address this, Studio A. Ferraresi – AF Engineering proposed the use of a lightweight slab incorporating recycled polyethylene spheres instead of a traditional solid reinforced concrete slab.
This more advanced technology made it possible to change the slab’s structural behavior lightening the structure and consequently reducing the load on the columns. The chosen solution achieved the best possible balance between unconventional geometries, load reduction, and budget constraints.
