Metropolis

The building has a footprint of approximately 6000 m² and comprises 8 above-ground storeys and 4 basement levels. The basement occupies the entire footprint area, whereas the above-ground structure is smaller and has a variable floor area.

At Level 1, the building measures approximately 106 × 16 m, increasing progressively to some 106 × 22 m at roof level. The building also features a void extending through its entire depth, spanning 30 m between Levels 0 and 3.

The structure above the void consists of a composite steel-concrete structure, incorporating a Haircol slab system intended to minimise self-weight, supported by a grid of primary and secondary beams. Between Levels 3 and 5, these beams are supported by three large steel trusses spanning 29.4 m. This composite structure is, in turn, supported by the adjacent reinforced concrete structure.

Due to construction and structural constraints, the building was erected using the Top-Down method, an innovative process that enabled the lower and upper floors to be built simultaneously.

The main constraints affecting the structural design of the building were as follows:

• - Geology and geotechnics;

• - Proximity to the metro line;

• - Presence of major water supply and gas pipelines, as well as wastewater pipelines, in the vicinity of the construction site.

In terms of finishing, the main works carried out inside the building included suspended ceilings made of metal and plasterboard, raised access flooring made of coated chipboard panels and various joinery works on doors, cupboards and wall cladding. Externally, aluminium and glass curtain walls were installed, and cladding was fitted using natural stone and aluminium sheeting.

In terms of building services, the scope encompassed the entire electrical installation, data infrastructure and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. External works included the installation of power utilities, water supply networks, sewerage networks and public lighting. A cycle lane was also constructed and street furniture installed.

In short, the project comprised excavation, perimeter retaining works, structural works, finishing, building services installations and external works for a building predominantly intended for office use on the upper floors, parking facilities within the basement levels, and retail areas and plant rooms at ground-floor level.