Skanska Reception Desk Mould
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Cambian Role:
Geometry Optimisation, Mould Design & Production
Project Team:
Client: Skanska || Architects: John Robertson Architects || UHPC Contractor: CubeX Industries
The Skanska UK HQ reception desk includes a novel fibre reinforced eco-concrete material and a Pier Luigi Nervi inspired pattern. Cambian optimised the geometry of the pattern detail and manufactured the direct lift mould tooling for production.

UHPC Monolith
The centrepiece of the reception area at Skanska’s new Hertfordshire UK HQ is a unique desk made from Oak and a novel Ultra High Performance cement free concrete material.
Cambian developed the detailed design for the rigid pre-cast moulds, into which the eco-concrete was poured. A split line was introduced in the cast product which allowed for the counter top to be poured separately and grouted in place on site. Beneath this, concealed cast-in-place lifting eyes facilitated the installation.
Precision Mould Tooling
Whilst the mould construction required was complex, a rigid tool rather than flexible form liner was employed to ensure dimensional accuracy of the interaction with wooden elements produced by others.
The mould framework was produced from Birch Plywood for stability and stiffness, and where necessary clad in a mixture of 600 and 1050kg/m3 Polyurethane model board. A sanding sealer was applied, suitable for use with release agents to assist with de-moulding.
A total of 14 sections of mould allow for the re-entrant nature of the arched pattern. These are bolted to a custom Birch ply pallet to aid with transportation, tied above the screen rail for additional stiffness, and positioning an EPS void former to reduce weight of the finished UHPC component.
