54 Stonemason Drive, Norwest, NSW

Sector

Residential, hotel & mixed-use

Location

Norwest, NSW

The development at 54 Stonemason Drive, Norwest, comprisesd a three-storey residential complex featuring 61 townhouses with associated parking.

This new-build project was designed to comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) and relevant Australian Standards while incorporating performance-based fire safety solutions. The development is located within a residential precinct, requiring careful integration of fire safety measures to balance compliance, design efficiency, and occupant safety. The project includes considerations for fire-resistant construction, egress provisions, and active fire protection systems.

Key challenges:

Fire resistance of lift shaft components: The horizontal beams within the lift shaft required fire protection, but sections of these beams remain exposed due to lift track attachments.
Reduced Fire Resistance Level (FRL) in carpark: The project proposes an FRL reduction from 120/120/120 to 90/90/90 within the Class 7a carpark, necessitating a performance-based assessment.
Egress compliance: Ensuring compliance with NCC Part D1 and D2 for safe evacuation while maintaining architectural integrity.
Fire Detection in carpark areas: The need for thermal fire detection in enclosed parking spaces associated with residential units.
Fire compartmentation between garages: Preventing fire spread between garage spaces while maintaining functional design.

Key solutions:

Enhanced fire protection for lift shafts: Cementitious fire spray was applied to horizontal beams, with additional structural redundancy to mitigate the risk of fire-induced failure.
Performance-based justification for reduced FRL in carpark: Engineering analysis demonstrated that the 90-minute FRL maintains structural stability and occupant safety, supported by additional fire detection measures.
Optimised egress solutions: Compliance with NCC egress requirements ensured safe evacuation routes, supported by emergency lighting and exit signage.
Comprehensive fire detection and warning systems: Thermal detectors were installed in carpark enclosures, ensuring early fire detection and prompt occupant notification.
Garage fire separation measures: Fire-rated walls and self-closing fire doors limit fire spread between individual garages while preserving access and functionality.

Key outcomes:

Full compliance with NCC fire safety requirements: The fire engineering solutions ensured that the building meets the performance requirements of the NCC 2019 Amendment 1.
Structural integrity maintained: The performance solutions effectively mitigated risks associated with the lift shaft fire protection and carpark FRL reduction.
Optimised safety without compromising design: The project successfully integrated fire safety measures while maintaining the architectural and functional intent of the development.
Enhanced occupant protection: Early warning systems and compliant egress provisions contribute to a high standard of fire safety for residents.
Sustainable and cost-effective fire engineering solutions: Rationalised fire safety measures provided cost efficiency while maintaining safety and compliance.

The fire engineering strategy implemented for 54 Stonemason Drive, Norwest, ensures a robust and compliant approach to fire safety while optimising the project’s architectural and functional outcomes. The innovative performance-based solutions effectively address the key fire safety challenges, maintaining structural integrity, efficient egress, and comprehensive fire detection. This project stands as an example of fire safety engineering excellence in the residential sector.

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