Located near Oxford Circus Station, the Berners Street project involved the meticulous construction of reinforced concrete sub- and super-structures, covering approximately 7,000m² of development. Following the demolition of existing structures by others, our team undertook the creation of a deeper basement and the erection of new reinforced concrete frames ranging up to seven storeys. Despite the complexities posed by a dense urban environment, the project maintained rigorous standards in safety, sustainability, and logistical coordination, all while adhering to a one-crane strategy.
A key highlight of this project was the extraordinary attention to detail in achieving high-quality concrete finishes, which accounted for 80% of the exposed structural elements. Utilising a blend with 50% GGBS, the concrete achieved a light, smooth finish that met stringent architectural requirements. These specifications included precise tolerances on flatness and minimal visible imperfections, such as blowholes and colour variations. Such precision and consistency in the visual quality of the concrete were pivotal in securing our shortlisting for the prestigious Concrete Society Awards in 2022.
The success of the Berners Street project was driven by the early and thorough planning phases, innovative construction methodologies, and a dedicated on-site team. By employing traditional formwork methods and high-grade materials, VKE Contractors delivered a project that not only met but exceeded the aesthetic and structural expectations of the architects and clients, cementing its status as a benchmark for future developments in the area.
