For the construction of KIRK KAPITAL´s new headquarters in Vejle in Denmark, designed by Studio Olafur Eliasson, CN3 has delivered Virtual Design & Construction services for the general contractor.
Through a comprehensive value engineering process, CN3 analysed the building’s complex geometry and prepared a detailed fabrication model in 3D. During the process, geometric principles for ruled surfaces and parametrics were defined, which secured unique production methods both virtually and physically.
The building’s load-bearing structure of cast-in-place concrete was optimised to achieve an efficient execution method for the curved concrete surfaces. For example, introducing curved precast concrete for non-load-bearing walls with an optimized geometry allowed for reuse of form systems and thus a systematic execution flow.
Apart from the highly detailed geometric 3D model of the concrete structures, a 3D model of the rebars was developed to implement digital specification and fabrication of 1.355 tons of complicated rebars. This ensured constructability and handover of the complete design to the construction site.
Based on the complete production model, CN3 analysed different production methods for the unique form system such as end moulds etc. to ensure efficient execution. Consequently, the model was defined to ensure consistency against the construction model for all masonry surfaces. Furthermore, the model was used to develop the principles for the form systems and moulds for performing curved masonry work.
Other stakeholders used CN3’s consistent fabrication model to produce moulding systems produced by data from the 3D model. In addition, the model provided data for setting out and as-built measurements. The model was the constructive focal point in the project and was widely used even for interface coordination of the curved glass panels, masonry work, HVAC, etc.
VDC tools secured a shared understanding of the project and strengthened communication between all stakeholders.
Fjordenhus is a full scale demonstrator of how unique architecture and craft, can be realized efficiently through VDC and digital fabrication
