An unusual Lamella roof structure with the 1200mm squares formed from alternating 2400mm long ribs to create a Barrel Vault shape.

The 400 or so ribs required are made from Kerto 'S' Laminated Veneer Lumber and most are identical apart from handing - the top edges are machined with a helical twist to receive the decking.

Jointing employs Cowley Connectors which are inconspicuous and provide rapid assembly and high load transfer.

Decking is also Kerto - Type 'Q' which has a percentage of cross veneers for stability in panel format. Sheets around 8000mm long to suit rib spacing were cut to 450mm wide and tongued and grooved along the long edges. An ideal form of decking which will span without additional framing.

Craneage was all but impossible on the tight site footprint. Packs of 30kg ribs and 50kg deck units used a lorry hoist straight onto perimeter scaffold. They could then be easily handled into position.

Ribs and deck were stained and class 'O' coated prior to installation to minimise site work.

Columns to perimeter and internal support are American White Oak Glulam turned round and having stainless threaded bar epoxy bonded into each end for jointing.

The system enables a structural form developed 80 years ago in Germany to enjoy the benefits of 21^st century engineered timber and jointing techniques.

Hounslow East Station, Kingsley Road, Hounslow

Acanthus Lawrence & Wrightson

Buro Happold

Parkman Ltd

Gleeson MCL Ltd