The Evolution of Steel Framing in Modern Architecture

March 1, 2024

Steel Solutions

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The Evolution of Steel Framing in Modern Architecture

Expertise & Innovation

Steel framing has undeniably revolutionised building design and construction, and it continues to play a significant role in modern architecture. This blog post from CMC Steel Solutions will explore the benefits of steel framing while highlighting its nuanced importance in the design and construction process.

Steel Framing & Australian Building Standards

Design Compliance – Steel framing designs must comply with the structural provisions outlined in the National Construction Code (NCC), specifically Volume Two. This includes considerations for wind loads, snow loads and other environmental factors.
Material Quality – AS 1397 sets the standards for the continuous hot-dip metallic-coated steel sheet and strip used in construction. Steel framing materials must meet the specified requirements to guarantee strength and durability.
Fire Resistance – Addressing fire safety when it comes to steel construction is crucial. AS 4100 provides guidelines for structural steel, including considerations for fire-resistant design. Steel framing must meet these standards to ensure buildings can withstand fire for a specified duration.
Connections & Fastenings – AS 4100 also covers the design of steel structures, including connections. Proper design and installation of connections is vital to ensure the stability and integrity of the steel framing
Corrosion Protection – AS 2312 outlines the recommendations for the protection of structural steel against atmospheric corrosion. Adequate corrosion protection measures must be in place to safeguard the steel framing, especially in coastal or corrosive environments.

Steel & Australian Architecture

Engineering & Custom Fabrication

A number of iconic Australian buildings showcase the use of steel framing in their design and construction. Some notable examples include:

Melbourne Cricket Ground – This world-renowned sports stadium features a steel-framed roof and an impressive cantilevered structure, providing spectators with unobstructed views of the action.
Federation Square – A cultural and entertainment hub in Melbourne, Federation Square boasts striking steel-framed buildings that house galleries, museums and other public spaces.
Queen Victoria Market – This historic market in Melbourne has undergone extensive renovations, incorporating steel framing to preserve its heritage while modernising the structure.
Sydney Opera House – Although not primarily steel-framed, this iconic building features steel reinforcement in its concrete shells, demonstrating the versatility of steel in architectural design.
Big Red (“House in Tasmania”) – This twist on the classic Australian shack, located in Tasmania’s south-east, is almost entirely self-sufficient. Rainwater tanks and a septic system allow all water to be recycled. Big Red demonstrates how steel framing can be integrated into contemporary, eco-friendly architecture to create a durable, sustainable and visually appealing home.

The Benefits of Steel Framing

Steel framing offers many advantages over timber, such as increased strength, durability, sustainability, fire resistance and termite resistance, as well as a modern aesthetic. Unlike timber frames, a steel frame is far less likely to shift and warp over time, as the weight and density of the frame makes movement difficult. Timber frames are also more likely to distort due to the process of timber drying, which causes material to “shrink” for many years after the tree it was harvested from has been cut down. The enhanced strength and durability of steel frames has led to them being adopted by the eco-home movement, with steel framing for sustainable homes in Melbourne and beyond becoming increasingly popular in recent years.

Steel Framing in Australia

Steel framing has a tried and true history in Australia, as it offers several advantages that are unique and relevant to the country's environment and building codes. For example, bushfire resistance and cyclone resilience are crucial factors in many parts of Australia. Steel is non-combustible and can withstand severe bushfire temperatures. This makes steel-framed houses more resilient in bushfire-prone areas. The high strength-to-weight ratio of steel also provides excellent resistance to the destructive forces of cyclones, which is important for cyclone-prone areas in the Northern regions.

Modern Architectural Styles

Steel framing is an underrated versatile construction material that can be easily integrated into various architectural styles, including minimalism, industrial, contemporary, biophilic and sustainable design. Steel components are lighter and stronger than weight-bearing wood or concrete products, making steel frame constructions far stronger and more durable. Steel studs can also be more readily fabricated in a variety of sizes and customised to bear specific loads in buildings of all different types and sizes. This adaptability enables architects and builders to create more innovative and visually appealing structures that cater to diverse aesthetic preferences and functional requirements.