Robert Stephens was invited to make a presentation to the Institute of Structural Engineers in Dubai on the subject of the Façade Engineering of the Meydan Race Course Grandstand, at Nad al Sheba, UAE.

The Meydan Race course grandstand is a landmark building in Dubai and is approximately 1km in length. The building comprises a concrete substructure with a cantilevered mega-structure steel roof which cantilevers over 200 meters at each end. The building is enclosed with many innovative lightweight structural façade systems which have been engineered using the latest manufacturing techniques.

In this presentation, design development and construction of the most innovative façade elements is explained by Mr Robert Stephens who, at the time was the technical consultant responsible for the engineering design, procurement, fabrication and  construction of the façade envelope. Topics that were covered were the design of structural glass, the design of dynamic structures, geometric modelling and analysis of free form structures, detailing, buildability and functionality of façades.

Robert has over 15 years of experience in lightweight structural design in the Far and Middle East, specialising in tension cable, glass and freeform structures.

Robert has been working in the UAE for the last 7 years heading up specialist engineering teams, he is a chartered structural engineer and is a fellow of the Society of Façade Engineers.

About: Inhabit is the world’s first consulting group focused exclusively on providing specialist engineering services. We complement traditional engineers and architects and deliver technical input to improve the quality and efficiency of today’s buildings.

At Inhabit we aim to deliver fully coordinated services incorporating both local constraints and world best practices, in what we believe is the most effective way possible.

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