Title: Study of the Formwork Design for Elf-Aquitaine's World Headquarters Building at La Defense, Paris, France

Author(s): John G. H. Harrison

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 90

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 239-260

Keywords: columns (supports); computer programs; formwork (construction); high-rise buildings; reinforced concrete; structural design; General

DOI: 10.14359/1777

Date: 4/1/1986

Abstract:
The new World Headquarters Building for Elf Aquitaine in Paris, France was designed by a Canadian architectural firm who won the commission in an invited design competition in 1979. Work on construction documents began in Paris in January 1981 and construction began early in 1982. Bouyges, the contractor for the reinforced concrete structure, undertook extensive studies to develop a special formwork system for the facade structure since there is little if any background of experience to draw on in France in the construction of high-rise buildings. At 48 stories this was a building of very significant height and would require a whole new approach. The result of these studies was a very ingenious system of facade forms, fabricated entirely in steel and consisting of column and beam forms, complete with integrated working platforms, access ladders, and 2 story high protective mesh screens. A system of alignment nibs insured faithful adherence to the allowable tolerances both vertically and horizontally. Although the research and capital costs were significant, substantial cost savings were nevertheless made in the erection of the structure both in time and labor thus confirming the validity of this formwork design.