Client: Blocwork The Barnum is a bold, modern residential development located near Nottingham Railway Station. This Build-to-Rent (BTR) project comprises 348 apartments, including studios, one, two, and three-bedroom units, designed to meet the growing demand for high-quality rental homes in the city. The development features amenities such as a mezzanine level with a lounge, gym, and co-working spaces, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere. Its striking architecture, featuring curved red-brick walls, reflects the area's historic character while offering contemporary urban living. Services we provided Water Engineering & Flood Risk Civil & Infrastructure Engineering Geotechnical & Ground Engineering Ground Investigation & Land Quality Structural Engineering Transport Planning & Traffic Engineering Our Role BWB provided a full range of multi-disciplinary engineering services for The Barnum, from initial site assessments to detailed structural and civil design. Our involvement began with ground engineering investigations to assess the site's suitability for development. Geotechnical expertise This phase included geotechnical surveys and soil testing to inform foundation design and ensure the building’s long-term stability. Our civil and structural engineering teams collaborated closely to develop an efficient design that maximised space usage while minimising costs. Efficient design Our civil and structural engineering teams collaborated closely to develop an efficient design that maximised space usage while minimising costs. We focused on optimising structural elements, using innovative materials and construction methods to deliver a building that met the project’s architectural vision. One of the key engineering challenges was the presence of a mainline Severn Trent sewer running through the site. Our team worked closely with Severn Trent to develop a solution that involved repositioning load-bearing structures away from the sewer, preventing damage and avoiding costly rerouting. Tight constraints The primary challenge was designing a structural framework that accommodated the existing Severn Trent sewer without requiring significant modifications. BWB’s solution involved repositioning load-bearing elements, preserving the sewer's integrity and maintaining the project’s original design.