Laser Quest Widnes Case Study

Solution

Panelven initially approached us for advice regarding this new project in August 2016. We had previously worked with Panelven on another arena design back in 2014 which was also a challenge, therefore, the client was already aware of our abilities and our commitment to delivering projects of a great complexity in an effcient and timely manner. We initially got involved with a proposal for the mezzanine floor layout, namely to help resolve where the lower floor supports would need to be situated in order to sustain the large numbers of people participating in games and the potential heavy loads the structure would need to bear. A bespoke system of engineered floor joists, alongside trussed rafters to form structural panels, provided the perfect solution.

We were very aware that as this was a conversion of an existing room we needed to be mindful of the available head room. As a result of the height limitation the joist depth for the mezzanine floor had to be kept to a minimum. In addition we did not have the option of digging additional foundations or installing structural support columns, therefore any solution provided had to be self supporting.

We were also asked to manufacture the ramps that formed part of the framework on-site so they could be installed quickly and easily on-site. Again they had to be capable of supporting heavy volumes of traffic and had to have a unique shape configuration. These elements were all taken into consideration by our designers when creating the design of the structure.

Results

Work progressed on the design and as the project developed we were able to incorporate additional support columns that were fixed to the external walls providing additional required support for the timber trusses. The designs also had to cater to the excitement and ‘hide and seek’ element of the game, providing hiding space on the lower level along with walkways and cut-throughs courtesy of the engineered gaps strategically designed into the structure.

In total we supplied 196 joists and trusses to create this unique space that will provide hours of fun for both children and adults.

Conclusion

Our solution to the lack of internal supporting walls was the use of engineered floor joists and trussed rafters to form structural panels in order to support a large amount of foot traffic on the upper level. Upon supply of the timber components the project was installed by Panelven. We are very proud of the finished product and look forward to working on future projects of all shapes and sizes.