How do you design a building that is both fire-safe and visually appealing?

1 Structural fire engineering

Structural fire engineering is the application of engineering principles and methods to assess the behaviour and performance of building structures under fire conditions. It considers the effects of fire on the materials, elements, systems, and interactions that make up the structure, as well as the interactions with the fire itself. Structural fire engineering aims to ensure that the structure can withstand the fire load and provide adequate stability, strength, and deformability for the required fire resistance period.

2 Performance-based design

Performance-based design is an alternative approach to prescriptive design, which relies on predefined codes and standards that specify the minimum requirements for fire safety. Performance-based design allows for more flexibility and innovation in building design, as it focuses on the desired outcomes and objectives rather than the prescribed methods and solutions. Performance-based design requires a clear definition of the performance criteria, such as the acceptable level of risk, the fire scenarios, the structural response, and the verification methods.

3 Fire safety strategies

To design a building that is both fire-safe and visually appealing, you need to develop a comprehensive fire safety strategy that covers the following aspects: prevention, detection, suppression, containment, evacuation, and rescue. Prevention involves reducing the sources of ignition and fuel, as well as implementing good housekeeping and maintenance practices. Detection involves installing and maintaining fire alarms and smoke detectors that can alert the occupants and the fire service. Suppression involves providing adequate fire-fighting equipment and systems, such as sprinklers, hoses, and extinguishers. Containment involves designing the building layout and the structural elements to limit the spread of fire and smoke, such as using fire doors, walls, floors, and ceilings. Evacuation involves providing safe and accessible routes and exits for the occupants to escape the building, as well as clear signage and lighting. Rescue involves facilitating the access and operation of the fire service and the emergency responders, such as providing fire hydrants, risers, and ventilation.

5 Material selection

Material selection is a key factor that affects both fire safety and aesthetics. Materials have different properties and characteristics that determine their fire performance, such as their combustibility, flammability, thermal conductivity, specific heat, density, and melting point. Materials also have different qualities and attributes that determine their aesthetic appeal, such as their color, texture, shape, form, and style. Material selection involves choosing the appropriate materials for the intended function and location of the structural elements, as well as considering the cost, availability, durability, and sustainability of the materials. Material selection also involves applying the appropriate treatments and coatings to the materials to improve their fire resistance and appearance, such as fire retardants, intumescent paints, and decorative finishes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?