Analysis of Crewe Lifestyle Centre's Structure Case Study

Introduction - Insights into Architectural Design and Materials

The Crewe Lifestyle Centre, a modern public recreation centre situated in the centre of Crewe, the UK, is extensively studied in this report about its structural and material components. The Lifestyle Centre, which was constructed in 2008, offers amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sports facilities, and health rooms to the neighbourhood. The report begins with identifying the location and context of the building within the town of Crewe. A location map and building photographs depict its central position and modernist aesthetic. Key information is provided including the building's opening date, purpose, architectural design, construction methods, and structural materials. The Lifestyle Centre utilizes steel, concrete, and glass to create a sleek, rectangular footprint. Next, the structural elements of the building are analyzed in detail. The substructure consisting of the foundation, columns, and lower levels is described. An isolated spread footing foundation distributes the building loads into the ground.

The visible superstructure encompasses the upper floors, roof, walls, and other elements. Loads calculations, structural materials, and framing configurations are explained. Non-structural components including flooring, stairs, windows, and ceilings are then described. The material selection focuses on durability, maintenance, and aesthetics for high-traffic public areas. Finishes range from Maplewood gym floors to carpet, tile, and stone. Building envelope features like glazing and sun shading are also highlighted. Finally, the report examines the behaviour and deterioration mechanisms of two representative materials - cracks in concrete walls and tile joints. Possible causes, implications, and repairs are outlined. This analysis provides insight into the long-term performance and potential vulnerabilities of the materials utilized.

In summary, this report provides a comprehensive review of the Crewe Lifestyle Centre. By cataloguing its structural elements, material selection, and building performance, the analysis reveals how the facility's design achieves functionality, safety, and visual appeal. The report highlights the building's role as an essential community asset. With its contemporary architectural design and central location, the building is a popular venue for sports, fitness, and health activities for Crewe residents.

Discussion

1.1 Identification of the building

• Location map

On the map, the town of Crewe is highlighted within Cheshire County. The Crewe Lifestyle Centre building is marked with a red pinpoint icon in the central area of Crewe. Its location is along Moss Square, just northeast of the Crewe railway station (Welch et al.2021). The major roads shown on the map are the A500 to the northwest, the A534 to the northeast, and the A532 to the south and west. Grand Junction Street runs north-south just west of the building location.

Figure 1: The location Map

The map indicates that the Lifestyle Centre is in a central, accessible part of Crewe, close to the town's main public transportation hub and thoroughfares (Vijver et al.2022). Its central location likely makes it convenient for members of the local community to access.

• Postcode of selected building

Crewe Lifestyle Centre, Moss Square, Crewe CW1 2BB

• Building Description

The Crewe Lifestyle Centre is a large, modern rectangular building located in the heart of Crewe, UK. Built-in 2008, it has a sleek exterior combining glass, steel, and grey concrete panels (Otton et al.2022). This public leisure facility serves the local community with amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sports halls, and health suites over multiple floors. With its contemporary boxy shape and curtain wall of glass, it has an imposing yet inviting presence.

Figure 2: The Library Building

The structural frame utilizes steel and reinforced concrete while the exterior cladding is precast concrete and glass (McDermott et al.2023). The main entrance is via sliding glass doors underneath the prominently displayed building . The Centre's central location and wealth of recreational facilities make it a popular local venue for health, fitness, and sports activities. Its modernist design contrasts with the traditional architecture of surrounding buildings.

Date of building

The center opened in August 2008.

Description

Purpose

The Crewe Lifestyle Centre is a public leisure and sports facility, providing amenities like a swimming pool, gym, sports halls, health suites, etc. for the local community.

Design

It has a contemporary architectural design with a rectangular footprint and boxy shape (Danis et al.2023). The exterior combines glass, steel, and concrete in keeping with modern design aesthetics.

Building Methods

It utilizes a steel structural frame with reinforced concrete floor slabs (Daffern et al.2023). The exterior curtain wall is made of glass and precast concrete panels.

Structural Materials

Reinforced concrete, structural steel, and glass curtain walls.

1.2 Structural elements: Substructure

Elements of structure

Substructure

Division of a structure mainly depends upon the plinth level, based on P.L the structure is divided into two parts:

• Substructure
• Superstructure

The portion of a building that stays under the plinth level takes the total load of the building and releases it into the soil in the final stage is called the Substructure (Naumov et al.2022).

In this structure “An isolated footing foundation” is used, this type of foundation carries concentrated loads and axial loads to the column center (de Moliner et al.2022). Columns are a vital part of a building and they carry the total load that applies on the roof of the building, as this is an educational building the live loads are variable and therefore a factor of safety is 1.5 from the calculated design loads.

Types of Isolated footing foundations are:

• Spread footing: This type of foundation is mainly used in residential, and commercial areas.
• Stepped footing: This foundation is used in hilly areas where uniform land is unavailable.
• Slopped footing: This foundation is used in situations where columns are very near to each other and don't have space to relocate the columns.

Method of foundation

In isolated footing foundation the method here adopted is “spread footing foundation”, this is a shallow foundation where breath is equal to or greater than depth (B>=D) (Fu et al.2022). This foundation is used to support the structure where the columns are designed to support each other and the loads are distributed equally as the columns transfer the load to the soil efficiently.

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Materials used in substructure are mainly to stabilize the portion of a construction to balance in the soil and to perform accordingly with the characteristics of soil (Kontoudaki et al.2022). Materials provided in substructures are fine and coarse aggregates, cement as binding materials, bricks at the base of the footings, and plain cement concrete (P.C.C) for the compressive load that comes to the toe of the footing.

1.3 Structural elements: Superstructure

Description

The superstructure is the visible part that is above the ground level, the members of superstructures are- columns, beams, roof, floor, walls, etc. The upper part of the superstructure carries a parapet, coping, and other components of the roof. While designing the structures, the calculation of loads is the most vital part therefore factor of safety is calculated, apart from that various type of load is also calculated to secure the building from failure (Sysoev et al.2022).

The types of load calculation are:

• Dead Load: Dead load means the load which is constant load irrespective of time and period. Beam, roof, and walls are dead load, it's also called static load.
• Live Load: It is also called impose load, it imposes during the use of the structure, live load is variable in amount it may rise and go down over time. Furniture and types of equipment are live loads.
• Wind Load: Wind load is calculated as negligible load most of the time, it depends on the weather of the area or site where the structure is built and the angle of the structure is also a factor while calculating wind load.
• Seismic Load: Depending on the geographic location seismic or earthquake load is calculated, seismic hazards and geotechnical parameters are the most significant factors for calculating this load.
• Snow Load: It is calculated in snow-affected areas, it's the load from accumulated snow and ice that deposits over the roof.

Elements of superstructure:

• Main Reinforcement Bar: Reinforcements are steel bars that provide tensile strength and shear strength to the structure (Ottoni et al.2022). Steel bars are used as reinforcement because the “coefficient of thermal expansion” elongation limit of steel and cement is approximately the same. Therefore, the chances of giant cracks and hairline cracks do not appear at the surface of the member. Tensile load is being taken by the steel reinforcement and gives the structure durability as steel is a very available material and it has a double impact on the structure employing serviceability and durability this is widely used in the world.
• Beam: Beam is an important structural element that plays a prominent role in transferring the load coming over it to stabilize the structure and it firmly transfers the load to the footings (Sigurðardóttir et al.2021). Beams take axial and bending loads and save the structure from collapse.

Figure 3: Elements of Superstructure

• Stirrups: Stirrups are used with the mail and distribution bars to hold the bars in place, stirrups are used in beams and columns as shear-resistant members, these are provided in a manner that creates a nest of reinforcement to the main reinforcement bars.
• Cover blocks: Cover blocks are used to maintain a specific distance between reinforcement bars and shuttering of the structure (Barbaresi et al.2021). It also provides thermal insulation which protects the re-bars from fire.
• Bent up Bar: Crank or bent up bar used in roof reinforcement to protect the slab from negative bending effect, these bars are off 45° and 30°. It is provided at the bottom of the reinforcement to prevent sagging of the slab.

Elements are used to protect and prevent the strength of the structures, it gives a healthy and durable lifespan of the structure, and extra external loads are handled properly.

1.4 Non-Structural elements and materials

The structural framing consists of a steel or concrete skeleton with columns spaced to create large open interiors. For the long spans needed for pools and gymnasiums, steel construction is advantageous. The steel frame incorporates wide-flange columns around the perimeter and within the core. Horizontal steel beams span between the columns to support each floor and roof level. This frame resists gravity loads from the weight of the structure, occupants, and contents. The columns are likely wide-flange shapes fabricated from steel plates, providing high strength in compression. Beams may use wide flanges or build-up I-shaped sections assembled from plates and channels. Girders support the beams at longer spans. Decking acts as formwork for the concrete slab above. High-strength bolts connect the steel members.

Figure 4: Outer Terrain of Library Building

Shop drawings detail the placement of each element. Erection involves lifting each piece into place and bolting connections. Quality control is critical for structural integrity. Reinforced concrete could also be used for some framing elements. Concrete columns, walls, and flat slabs or beams provide the support structure. Reinforcing steel bars gives tensile strength to the concrete. Post-tensioned slabs use high-strength steel tendons stressed after curing to create compression for longer clear spans. Precast concrete planks can also span between supports. Formwork is required during concrete pours for the columns, walls, and slabs. Lateral wind and seismic forces are resisted by reinforced concrete shear walls in the core or external braced steel frames. Shear walls have continuous vertical and horizontal rebar to resist lateral deflection. Elevator and stair cores often serve as shear walls. Exterior braced frames have diagonal steel members for stability. Joint connections are critical for force transfer. Foundations include driven steel piles to bedrock where needed due to poor soil conditions. Spread footings may also be used where soil-bearing capacity permits. These spread loads from columns and walls into the supporting ground. Slabs-on-grade are cast over gravel fill. Waterproofing protects below-grade levels. The structural materials balance strength, durability, constructability, and cost. Steel erection is faster while concrete provides mass.

Non-Structural System

Floors

The swimming pool areas likely feature slip-resistant ceramic tile finishes in shades of blue, providing durability and aesthetic appeal. Precast concrete paving is also used in high-moisture locker room areas. Maple wood gym floors allow for sports activities requiring resilience and grip, finished with protective coatings. Lobby and circulation zones feature stained and polished concrete floors for an attractive, durable finish requiring minimal maintenance. Offices and lounges are carpeted for sound absorption.

Stairs

Emergency egress stairs use precast concrete construction, with contrasting nosings on each step for visibility. Feature stairs in main lobbies consist of bifurcated types branching into two separate runs. These provide architectural interest and allow people to travel in separate directions. One example could be a central steel and glass staircase splitting left and right on upper landings. The glass railings maintain visibility between floors while steel pan stairs with concrete fill provide strength. Natural stone may also be used for a premium finish.

Windows

Energy-efficient glazing units have insulating glass layers to reduce heat transfer. Laminated or tempered glass is used for safety and durability. Operable windows allow for natural ventilation using manual or automated controls. Exterior aluminum sun shading fins or louvers reduce glare and heat gain from direct sunlight. Glass curtain walls on street facades maximize daylighting into interior pool areas. Interior glass partitions also maintain openness between spaces.

Ceilings

Moisture-resistant acoustic ceiling tiles contain micro-perforations to absorb sound reflections. These modular panels allow access to the mechanical systems above. Gymnasiums and pool areas have exposed ceilings showing the structural framing, ductwork, and utilities above for an industrial aesthetic. High-end lobbies may integrate decorative metal or stone ceiling finishes for visual impact.

Interior Finishes

Lobby areas feature durable, easy-to-clean finishes like glass wall paneling, ceramic tile, and natural stone. Locker rooms have moisture-resistant epoxy paints on concrete block walls along with phenolic panels. Offices and staff rooms are finished with washable vinyl wallpapers. The material palette focuses on longevity, aesthetics, and practical maintenance concerns.

Figure 5: Interior Finish

1.5 The behavior of materials

Cracks at the Wall surface

• Description: Cracks less than 2 mm. These are called hairline cracks in engineering terminology, these cracks are minor as they are created due to the undue amount of “heat of hydration”, these are mainly created in plaster, and by the time the effect of the atmosphere becomes wider, it can be 5 mm. Width. If, the cracks are more than 25 mm. Then it should be examined by professionals. Cracks could be terminated by properly working on the cracks with binders and adhesives.

Figure 6: Cracks at the surface of the wall

• Possible Cause: Cracks can be formed by extreme hot or cold temperatures, poor soil below the foundation level, improper curing of the walls, etc. These cracks formed slowly over the years, expansion of granular particles of the fine aggregates, and binding materials trying to expand their area, therefore the shrinkage on the surface becomes the crack. These crack expands with the atmospheric help and weakens the bonding of the wall surface.

Crack at tile joint

• Description: Expansion joints of the tiles must be installed in a manner that cracking should be prevented in tiles or grout. Vitrified tiles are easy to install because they are a little heavy and the chance of breaking is less, unlike ceramic tiles. Where a tile is joined in with a different substance then the junction of the joint should be the movement junction.
• Possible Cause: The problems that cause tile cracking are installation over control joint, forceful impact on the tiles, overload in the tile surface, etc. Less space for tile expansion movement is one of the biggest problems in cracking tiles.

Damp at the external Wall

• Description: The main problem on the external wall is penetrating damp. Penetrating dampness makes stains on the brickwork, this process takes months or even years to take place. Internal leakage of pipeline coils is the problem behind dampness.

Figure 7: Dampness in the external wall

• Possible Cause: Damp occurs when the moisture of the atmosphere, or rain hits the external surface of the wall then the outside layers or bondings of brick become porous and soak the moisture/water, saturating the wall surface and penetration damping occurs. Leakage can be the cause as the wall gets wet and over the years it creates the dampness problem.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this report has provided an in-depth look at the structural design and material performance of the Crewe Lifestyle Centre. Located in the heart of Crewe, UK, this modern public facility was constructed in 2008 and contains amenities including pools, gyms, sports halls, and health suites for the local community. The analysis began by identifying the context and location of the Lifestyle Centre within Crewe. Its central position and proximity to transportation lines make it easily accessible. Architectural photos revealed the contemporary, rectangular aesthetic combining glass, steel, and concrete. Construction details were provided including the structural framing system and foundations. Key structural elements were then explored in detail. The substructure encompasses the foundations, columns, and lower levels that transmit loads into the ground. Spread footings distribute concentrated column loads through the soil. In the superstructure, steel and concrete framing resists gravity and lateral loads while creating open, column-free interiors. Structural calculations, beam configurations, and reinforcing methods were explained.

Additional topics covered were the non-structural components including flooring, stairs, glazing, and finishes. Material selection balanced durability, maintenance, and appearance. Building envelope features such as high-performance glazing and sun shading contribute to energy efficiency and comfort. The report also examined representative deterioration issues - cracks in walls and tiles. Their appearance, causes and repairs were outlined.

In summary, this report provides a comprehensive assessment of the Crewe Lifestyle Centre's structural systems and materials. The analysis illustrates how the building's design achieves functionality for a high-traffic public facility while creating a contemporary, inviting aesthetic. By detailing its location, architecture, construction, and material performance, the report highlights how the Lifestyle Centre provides an essential recreation and sports venue for the people of Crewe. Moving forward, the information in this report can inform future maintenance, renovations, or expansions to the building. As a modern facility with less than 15 years in operation, the Lifestyle Centre is still early in its usable lifespan. This report provides key data on its as-built composition and material behavior that will enable the building to adapt to future community needs. With ongoing care and incremental upgrades, the Lifestyle Centre can remain a vibrant hub benefiting Crewe residents for generations to come.

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