Engineering at its best

Kirk Roberts Consulting drew on its multi-disciplinary expertise and in-depth experience to meet the various engineering challenges associated with EntX Entertainment Central.

The result is exceptional: a safe, structurally sound cinema and hospitality hub, right in the centre of Christchurch. It’s a credit to everyone involved.

It has been a more than two year project for Kirk Roberts, spanning structural engineering, civil engineering, geotechnical testing/reporting and design, and Building Information Modelling (BIM). Kirk Roberts also completed most of the fit-outs for the centre’s hospitality tenants. Up to 20 of its staff were involved at EntX.

“We worked closely with the architect to ensure the structure would be cost efficient and Kirk Roberts Consulting was also very involved at the start to make sure we could build value into all aspects of the project,” says principal structural engineer Nick Calvert.

“Fundamentally, we have to ensure that any design will stand up. At EntX, our BIM team played a big role: there’s a lot more to it than 3D design modelling; we help our clients to get the best understanding of their building and are always looking for ways to improve the design.”

BIM management is a key extension of design documentation and represents the next generation of design and project delivery. By adopting a coordinated and consistent approach, efficiencies are created throughout the project.

Kirk Roberts’ highly experienced geotechnical team completed a geotechnical ground improvement design for the site, which involved strengthening using stone columns drilled 4.5m into the ground.

Kir Roberts also identified that a seismic joint would be required for EntX, running east to west between the cinema complex and the more lightweight hospitality/atrium end of the centre. Essentially, this joint separates the two parts of the building and solves structural design issues associated with having double-height spaces at both ends.

“We looked at the architecture and identified that a seismic gap was required and this was then incorporated into the final structure and also fire rated on the Justice Precinct side.”

Our team are a dynamic force, bringing a genuine sense of innovation and ‘can do’ attitude to modern engineering challenges. Our approach is to proactively utilise advanced technology and processes to identify all opportunities to reduce costs and give our clients options to difficult challenges.” explains Nick

Nick says Calder Stewart did a great job of seamlessly coordinating access to the centre’s tight site.

“We have worked with Calder Stewart on other projects and our working relationship is strong. It has been a great project team.”

“This is a fantastic building and we are all very proud to have been involved. Not only has it been a great project for us, it’s really good for the city and is helping to get things up and running again in the heart of Christchurch.”