Secondary Steel & Access Structure Design >Commercial> UK

Project Snapshot

Project type: Commercial facility

Location: United Kingdom

Client type: Contractor

Structural system: Structural steel secondary framing

Software: Tekla TSD, Ideastatica, Navisworks, SAP2000

Scope of work: Design of stairs, platforms, and MEP secondary steel, Connection design, Engineering calculations and drawings

The Challenge

  1. The project involved tight spatial constraints, particularly around MEP services and access routes.
  2. Secondary steel elements needed to be integrated without impacting usable space or architectural intent.
  3. Installation sequencing was critical to avoid clashes and rework on site.
  4. The contractor required a compact, well-coordinated design that could be installed efficiently.

Our Engineering Approach

  1. We developed an optimized secondary steel layout, carefully fitting stairs, platforms, and supports within restricted zones.
  2. Structural members were sized efficiently to meet load requirements while minimizing steel tonnage.
  3. Connection details were designed to simplify fabrication and on-site installation.
  4. Coordination considerations were embedded early to reduce downstream clashes.
  5. All engineering was carried out in accordance with Eurocodes and UK National Annex requirements.

Tools and Deliverables

  1. Structural engineering calculations for secondary steel elements.
  2. Detailed design and connection drawings suitable for fabrication and site execution.
  3. Clear coordination information to support installation planning.

Results & Value Delivered

  1. Delivered a compact and buildable secondary steel design.
  2. Reduced on-site coordination issues through clear detailing.
  3. Supported smooth and efficient installation.
  4. Enabled timely site execution without layout conflicts.

Value to the Client

  1. Delivered contractor-focused structural design support.
  2. Reduced installation and coordination risk.
  3. Provided practical, buildable engineering solutions.
  4. Demonstrated strong experience in UK commercial secondary steel design.

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