contracts and projects Levolux fins on 45


45 Park Lane in central London has been undergoing a remarkable transformation, including the addition of a Brise Soleil Solar Shading solution, manufactured and installed by Levolux. Following an original design by The Office of Thierry W Despont, Levolux engineered the Aerofoil Fins to wrap around the building’s curved facade, providing an effective form of shading, but also to create a striking, contemporary aesthetic. This has been enhanced at night when the Fins are illuminated. In total, Levolux installed 763 lengths of Aerofoil Fins, all fixed at an angle of 30 degrees, which is the optimum angle for countering the sun’s rays when they are at their peak intensity. Of these, 177 lengths of Aerofoil Fin (more


Reaching


higher heights Heron Tower is undoubtedly set to become one of the best-known landmarks on the central London skyline. The VMZINC PLUS®


standing seam system


than 20 per cent) have been carefully curved to a precise radius, following the contours of the building. This has helped to create a seamless aesthetic of Fins that effectively wrap around the building. For further information, visit www.levolux.com.


Security and a stunning view


was used on the 38th and 41st floor roofs of the 46 storey building. VMZINC PLUS needs no supporting ventilation, so views are not spoiled by unsightly vents across the span. Precise wind loading calculations were required and it was important that the specified metal should have no adverse visual impact for overflying aircraft. Pre-weathered QUARTZ-ZINC® was the perfect choice as its natural patina continues to develop over time while also offering an exceptional standard of colour retention. In addition to its use with cellular glass, VMZINC PLUS can be used with mineral wool, PIR and composite insulation boards, using panels in either straight or curved profile up to 13 metres in length. In order to avoid penetration of the surface, specially designed clips are used. For further information telephone 01992 822288, email vmzinc.uk@umicore.comor visit www.vmzinc.co.uk


Going round the bend


Gradient UK recently provided a combination of site surveys, technical assistance and a bespoke, curved insulation solution for the unusual new roof of the refurbished Community Centre building at Robin Hood’s Chase. The result is a new green roof, which combines attractive styling with excellent thermal insulation. The 10-year old building’s original green roof was suffering from damage and water penetration, leaving a complete strip and re-roof as the only option. 52 tonnes of soil, roof system and decking were removed before repairs could be made to the roof structure. Having pioneered the use of single-layer tapered insulation systems for over 25 years, Gradient was able to produce the bespoke insulation boards under controlled factory conditions. Each one was


Spa in the clouds gets


a standing seam roof The new spa at the 5-star Park Lane Four Seasons Hotel was conceived as a ‘spa in the clouds’ with the VMZINC PLUS®


standing


seam roof providing a distinguishing feature for the newly defined architectural form. It replaced an unsightly flat roof. Planning requirements and the need to meet BS 5250 class 5 resulted in


designated for installation on a specific location on the roof which reduced the time and work required for the installation phase. It also helped ensure that the new roof is significantly more thermally effective than its predecessor and able to satisfy all Building Regulation requirements. For further information telephone 01902 791888 or visit www.gradientuk.com


When it came to designing walkways and bridges to connect some of the structures in the City Centre Las Vegas, the designers chose CRL to manufacture windscreens and glass railing systems to provide pedestrians with security as well as a view of the surroundings. Every element was carefully selected to harmonize with this glamorous, imaginative environment. The suspended pedestrian bridge features a guardrail system that was custom manufactured by CRL. It functions as an actual windbreak and as a guardrail, ensuring a safe walkway. The tempered glass provides a 360 degree view of the area. CRL also added LED lighting to the handrails to help illuminate the bridge. All CRL Glass Windscreen Systems can be easily mounted to a concrete slab, block wall or steel substrate, and they support a wide range of glass panel thicknesses for toughened and toughened laminated glass applications. Custom systems can be fabricated to meet safety concerns, as well as artistic tastes. At ground level, CRL’s P5 Series of posts and handrails were used to create safe and attractive protection for visitors. The handrails used here also feature an LED lighting system to enhance safety, while creating a dramatic visual effect in the evening hours. For further information telephone 0800 0421 6144 or visit www.crlaurence.co.uk


the creation of a perfectly formed, curved profile incorporating a warm roof build-up. The zinc was laid onto Foamglas®


over


plywood with VMZINC QUARTZ-ZINC PLUS®


on the main barrel vaulted roof and


vertical cladding and ANTHRA-ZINC PLUS® on the 'skirt' and perimeter gutters. Louvres were also made from zinc. For further information telephone 01992 822288, email vmzinc.uk@umicore.comor visit www.vmzinc.co.uk


Architects Choice 13


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