A Triumph in Timber Engineering

Crafted by Laing O’Rourke, the oak glulam dome stands as a testament to modern timber engineering. This monumental structure not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the building but also signifies a milestone in the advancement of timber construction techniques. Its nodes are meticulously interconnected through precise mortise and tenon joints, each reinforced with screwed steel plates positioned strategically at the rear of every node.

The installation of such a complex structure required meticulous planning and execution that was conducted by the Radius Group. They provided bespoke Lift Plan documentation, specialised site personnel, and essential lifting accessories, leveraging state-of-the-art 3D modelling to calculate exact lift weights and optimise working ranges.

Prior to installation, the oak glulam dome underwent meticulous pre-assembly on the ground. This careful process involved aligning and fitting each component with precision to ensure the integrity of the final structure. Once assembled, the dome was lifted seamlessly as a single, unified unit using a custom-designed lifting frame. This bespoke frame was engineered specifically for this project, allowing for a smooth and secure elevation of the dome.