Concrete flowed into formwork, the staircase was lifted into place, and gravel compacted under the weight of the vibrating plate. Before work can continue, the concrete of the ceilings needs to cure. The perfect timing for a three-week summer break.

In August, many of the trades go on vacation. So, for now, the construction site will remain quiet. We’ll use this time to give you a quick overview of what has happened in the meantime.

Steel columns and beams

Four steel columns have recently been installed in the shell construction. They were not part of the original plan. The structural engineer only added them shortly after we received first estimations of cost for the shell construction. After the first bids, it became clear: The shell construction would be significantly more expensive than planned. So where could we cut costs?

The answer quickly became clear: we reduce the ceiling thickness. Lower costs, but also lower load capacity. Originally, we had planned for the roof and loggia to extend beyond the base area without any columns or supports. That was now impossible.

The architect was able to discreetly integrate three of the four steel columns into the interior. Only at one building corner this was not possible. There now stands a steel beam, which even has its own foundation.

Load-bearing steel columns in the interior (left) and exterior (right).

You can find more background details in our article on awarding the shell construction works.

Exposed concrete staircase: well protected during the construction phase

Exposed concrete staircase wrapped in a protective layer of foil and wood

Before ceilings and roof could continue, the staircase had to be installed with millimeter precision. Several layers of foil and a robust wooden casing now protect it from scratches and construction dirt. This way it will survive the coming months on site unharmed.

Electrical installation in the concrete ceiling

The staircase was in place, the prefabricated ceiling slabs were ready. But before the ceiling could be fully concreted, electricians and sanitary installers laid empty conduits for electricity, network, and ventilation.

Flat roof: parapet wall as roof edging

Parapet wall from above
Parapet wall on the main roof from above

The shell constructor also built the parapet wall out of sand-lime brick on the roof. Now everything is ready for the roofers to start in September. They will take care of the roof sealing, rainwater drainage, and the green roof.

Garage & driveway get gravel foundation

Since crane, excavator, and co. were already on site, we had some exterior works carried out right away: The garage driveway was edged with L-shaped retaining walls along the property line, and both the garage floor and the driveway received a gravel base and are now ready for paving works.

Gravel foundation in the garage and retaining walls

Shell construction: preliminary conclusion

We are very satisfied with how smoothly the shell construction went: no major problems, and we are on schedule. The summer break can come. In September, work will continue with roof sealing, windows, and electrical works.