52
Hong Kong Builder
LIGHT CONSTRUCTION: To select a strong material with little weight which is
also of good appearance and durable
SOLUTION:
Collaboration with manufacturer in design of spécial building accessories
METHOD: This problem deals with a much larger building unit than any of the former. The method of ap- proach, however, should be the same. It is practical and convenient for the architect to work with a manufacturer in cases where the design calls for detailed repetition. Extra speed in actual building is easily realized, for most of the finishings can be pre- fabricated away from the site, while the structure is rising. Such special fittings are readily moulded in Asbestos-cement, and are available in attractive permanent exterior finishes.
The illustrations show "Everite" Asbesto-cement moulded fascias to grand stands. The width of these fascias and the admirable simplicity with which they are designed are a credit to modern artists and indus- trialists. In the photograph show- ing the Grand Stand at Brighton (3), there is an old stand in the background. This is designed with simplicity and restraint, but it will be seen by comparison with the new one that the modern structural mater- ials have given the designer greater freedom and scope, and the prospec- tive occupier of the stand greater protection from the weather, comfort, and lastly, and perhaps most impor- tantly, an enormous increase of vision. The picture of the Private Stand at Goodwood Racecourse (2) gives a close-up view of the joints and fixing of the Turners Asbestos-cement fascia slabs, while the large Hurst Park stand (1), being photographed from below, gives an admirable idea of the protection afforded by a good wide fascia.
In these designs the Asbestos- cement fascias tone in with the cast- concrete staircases, cappings, and joints in the brick, and tend to pull the very light type of design together. The tones of finish may vary and may be selected to harmonize with
1
2
BA
The upper view (1) shows the Grand Stand at Hurst Park Racecourse, and the lower illustration (2) shows the Private Stand at Goodwood Racecourse-
both designed by Yates, Cook, and Darbyshire. The fascias in both cases are built up of "Everite" Asbestos-cement moulded sheets