Taking Cobalt to Newcastle

Cobalt 16 is the latest speculative development on Highbridge Business Parks’ Cobalt Park development in Newcastle.

The four-storey development provides 9,400m² of floor space in two wings around the office core. Barrett Steel Buildings designed, fabricated and erected the 450 tonne structural steel frame for main contractor Bowmer & Kirkland.

The steel frame uses asymmetric beams to provide uninterrupted service zones under the precast concrete planks.

The front façade is constructed from full height curtain walling. This needed special attention at the design stage to eliminate all vertical bracing.

The rear elevation is clad in masonry built around full height windows, with 450×450 RHS sections providing floor and window support. Proprietary stainless steel angles supplied and fixed by Barrett support the masonry.

Architect was Ryder HKS and structural engineer was Cundall Johnson and Partners.