100% performance
Everybody knows that structural steel has high strength and is quick and cost effective to build with. The floors of steel-framed buildings also have excellent vibration and acoustic performance, making steel frames not only the obvious choice for industrial, office, retail and leisure buildings, but also for hospitals, schools, residential apartments and car parks.
Fact File
| Name | The Lowry Centre |
| Architect | Michael Wilford & Partners Ltd |
| Structural Engineer | Buro Happold |
| Steelwork Contractor | William Hare Ltd |
| Main Contractor | Bovis Lend Lease |
| Client | The Lowry Centre Trust |
|
|
The Lowry project on Salford Quays in Manchester was designated the Nation's Landmark Millennium Project for the Arts. The Lowry consists of two theatres, two galleries and various facilities for conferences and general hospitality. The 1400-seat Lyric Theatre is based on two rows of columns 3m apart set out on an oval grid as defined by sight lines. These columns are then used to support cantilevered trusses, which in turn support the seating.
From the outset the design team recognised that a steel frame was the logical choice to satisfy the architectural, structural and programme requirements.
