As with the link between the original building A and the Central building B , the task of designing a high level bridge that links three asymmetric buildings definitely proved to be one of the biggest challenges . Designing a building with such a prominent position and successfully integrating a pedestrian link bridge at 3rd floor level needed to be meticulously detailed . Ultimately the bridge design was developed taking into account the Phase 1 bridge link as well as the Phase 2 development and pulling in graphic sweeps from the adjacent façade blade design .
The splayed column on the bridge remained and meant the illusion of a greater span between buildings could be created and also reduce the visual clutter underneath the structure . A steel and bond deck structure was framed with a series of steel ribs which carried the glazed roof and perforated aluminium side cladding . Glass balustrades also help reduce the visual mass of the structure . A fritted glass roof helped reduce the heat load on the bridge and the swooping shapes created in the façades was carried through to the aluminium side cladding . The graded pattern created by the perforations in the side cladding also helped maintain a comfortable air flow across the bridge whilst shielding staff from rain during the wet days .
The central stair case design remained as per the central block . To have multiple corners of the building obstructed by large mostly unused structures was something the team wanted to avoid at all costs . However the larger footprint and increased staffed numbers meant that having to integrate a single external escape stair at some point could not be avoided . With 360 º views and a strong visual concept , the choice was made to tuck the stair on the corner of the east façade .
With limited views of the beautiful surrounds and its proximity to the podium entrance , the location worked out perfectly . The wrapped glass façade ultimately entirely concealed the escape stair and the visual and practical requirements blended together seamlessly .
Façades There are a total of three primary façade systems which make up the various external façades on the facility . The primary upper level wrapped façades utilise a unitised flush glazed system . The reception lobby , now an extra level higher than the central services building , employs the same spider glazing system and the ground floor
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