167 Thorndon Quay

Seismic Strengthening and Refurbishment

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As part of a wider refurbishment, Niche Commercial and Conform Construction- the Niche Group's Concrete and Formwork Specialists, undertook a comprehensive seismic strengthening project at 167 Thorndon Quay, for client Tory Property Holdings. Guided by the expertise of Spencer Holmes engineers, the project aimed to elevate the building's seismic resilience to IL3 standards and enhance its structural integrity.

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The strengthening process involved constructing new footings and foundations seamlessly integrated with existing reinforcement. This included the meticulous drilling and dowelling of new reinforcing bars to ensure robust connections. Existing windows on the North façade were concreted closed, further solidifying the structure.

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To support the building’s long-term durability, scabbling of existing concrete and the application of sprayed concrete shear walls were carried out on both the ground floor and Level 1. At Level 1, infill slabs were meticulously added to improve load distribution and stability.

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Existing concrete columns were restrained and reinforced, with additional steel, boxing, and poured concrete to bolster their capacity. The work was executed with precision using specialist pneumatic gear and effective dust extraction systems, essential for operating within the constraints of an enclosed, occupied building environment.

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This refurbishment project recognises Conform's ability to deliver high-quality seismic strengthening solutions and further speaks to the expansive capabilities of the Niche Group. As the seismic specialists brought in within the larger refurbishment undertaking, Niche's contribution was critical in ensuring the building remains safe, compliant, and structurally sound for years to come.