23
in the repair and replace sector to overcome the challenges inherent in surveying, fabricating and fitting windows into openings. In many cases these were irregular in shape and form, and not aligned with the concrete slab finish.
Some fabricators avoid commercial repair and replace projects like the Quadrangle because of the complexities involved. However when Aluminium Sashes were faced with challenges such as a downstand beam within the structural opening of some windows, creating an awkward head detail, they were able to integrate areas of fritted glass to disguise it.
Getting the details right The firm worked closely with AluK at the planning and detailed design stage to achieve the contemporary look for the facade that the client and architect wanted. For example, where the original windows had a transom and modesty spandrel panel below, the slimmer sightline replacements replicated the line of the transom but with fritted glass below, to provide a similar level of privacy but with more natural light. They also designed a solution for fixing the anthracite grey windows to the metallic bronze louvre sections specified to break up the uniformity of the facade, give users the option to open windows, and to provide fresh air and exhaust points for the AHUs. The reinforcing bar in the windows has effectively become the carrier bar for the louvres, and gives the impression that there are two colours in one window panel.
The architect’s view Dan Basey, project architect commented on the project: “Being able to work so closely with the manufacturer and fabricator at both design and construction stages enabled us to realise this project. The integration of the distinct colour palette and finishes was a key driver of the scheme. The metallic bronze finish works really well with the more neutral anthracite grey, whilst also being sympathetic to the existing colour palette of the Regency-era buildings in the context of Imperial Square.” He continued: “An integration of both natural and mechanical systems to the rear of the windows’ louvre system is a simple but effective detail that seeks to improve the user-experience of those working in office spaces. This will hopefully become a well utilised feature as more attention is given to improving the air quality of our internal workspaces going forward.”
The fenestration choices were integral to ADF OCTOBER 2021
the project’s being awarded a BREEAM Very Good rating, explains Basey: “The recyclable aluminium windows contributed to a BRE Green Guide A materials credit, while the 1.4 W/m2
K U-Values reduced the
energy demands. The glazed facade with integrated louvres helped achieve both the HEA 01 Views Out and Daylighting and the HEA 02 Indoor air quality ratings.” Quadrangle is a showcase for our collaborative approach with customers and specifiers. The planning, precision and attention to detail shown at every stage ensured that it delivers on the design intent, yet it has still proved a practical, and cost-effective choice.
Neil Smith is the national sales manager from AluK
WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK
The building now features an inner courtyard, ground floor retail space, four storeys of open plan workspace, and the town’s first rooftop restaurant
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36
