No_2_February_1969 — Page 33

H

Larger block showing beam projection for handling scenery elements

ly reinforced 1:2:4 concrete with a maintenance-free surface finish of ex- posed black course aggregate.

Some 1,000 reinforced concrete, tubular ventilation units, finished with three coats of Sandiex matt, were also cast on site at the rate of ten a day. The complete cladding units were handled by mobile crane, spot welded

Front and side elevations of precast panels

into position and then grouted with a mastic between joints.

The choice of tubular ventilation units instead of glazing for the scenery levels was made to ensure a through flow of natural air at all times and so prevent fungus forming on the scenery parts. This solution, avoiding the ex- pense of mechanical ventilation, has

been completely successful and it has been found that even on the most humid day the air inside the buildings is relatively fresh and cool.

All interior surfaces, including the inside of the ventilation tubes are paint- ed white to create an adequate level of reflected lighting for normal scenery handling. For protection during ty- phoons internal shutters are fitted on one side of each building.

Spiral staircase

A feature of the smaller building is an external spiral staircase which provides a break and a sculptural focal point in the long repetitive facade of the block. The precast reinforced con- crete tread unit has cast-in rubber non- slip strip and a hole to receive the railing. On the bottom of the tread the finish is alternate rough and smooth fair-face concrete, creating a circular movement from below the stair and distracting the eye from the monotony of the repetitive components.

Far East BUILDER, February 1969

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