Technical University of Kenya – Proposed Senate tower
Services Provided by Cadreatech Professionals
Activities Performed
- Structural design of the infill building
- Review of interface details with existing structures
- Contract administration, including site supervision and measurements
- Monitoring of construction works adjacent to existing buildings
Project Description
This project involved the structural design and construction supervision of a 7-storey reinforced concrete framed infill building constructed between two existing institutional buildings at the Technical University of Kenya. The development was conceived to maximize land use within a constrained urban campus while functionally integrating the new structure with the adjacent buildings.
The structural design was carefully developed to ensure that the new building remained structurally independent while allowing functional connectivity through corridors, circulation spaces, and shared services. Special consideration was given to foundation systems, column layout, floor systems, and movement joints to accommodate differential settlement and seismic actions without imposing additional loads on the existing structures.
Due to the limited construction space and close proximity to occupied buildings, the project required precise detailing, careful sequencing of works, and continuous structural supervision to ensure safety, stability, and full compliance with applicable engineering standards.
Structural Outcome
The new 7-storey framed structure functions as an independent load-bearing system, ensuring that vertical and lateral loads are safely transferred to its own foundations without overstressing the adjacent buildings.
Structural separation was achieved through the incorporation of movement joints and controlled gaps, allowing for differential settlement, thermal movement, and seismic response between the new and existing structures.
Localized strengthening measures were introduced only at points of functional connection, such as shared corridors and slab interfaces, ensuring safe load transfer without compromising the integrity of the existing buildings.
Architectural and Functional Outcome
The infill development successfully merges the three buildings into a functionally cohesive complex, allowing shared circulation through stairs, lifts, and corridors.
A coordinated façade treatment enhances visual continuity, improving the architectural identity and streetscape presence of the campus.
Interior spaces benefit from optimized layouts, improved vertical connectivity, and increased usable floor area, supporting academic and administrative functions efficiently.
Construction Outcome
Construction was executed using carefully staged methodologies to protect the adjacent structures throughout excavation, substructure works, and superstructure construction.
Temporary shoring, vibration monitoring, and controlled construction practices were implemented to prevent structural distress to the existing buildings.
Despite limited site access and constrained working conditions, the project was delivered safely and efficiently through rigorous supervision, coordination, and adherence to best engineering practices.
Proposed Infill Building Site Between Existing Structures
View of the proposed infill construction site positioned between two existing buildings at the Technical University of Kenya, highlighting early-stage excavation and structural preparation for a framed building designed to integrate shared circulation, services, and functional use while maintaining structural independence.
Infill Building Structural Frame Construction
Construction of reinforced concrete columns and shear walls for a framed infill building at the Technical University of Kenya, illustrating vertical formwork installation, scaffolding systems, and careful structural integration between adjacent existing buildings while maintaining structural independence and site safety.
Current Construction Status of Infill Building at TUK
Current site view of the infill building under construction at the Technical University of Kenya, illustrating the vertical progression of the reinforced concrete framed structure positioned between existing buildings and designed to integrate shared circulation while maintaining structural independence and compliance with institutional building standards.
