Completed in 2019, the structure boasts 24,000 sq. ft. of retail and office space, with 14,000 sq. façade area. The building features 12,000 sq. of interior space. Spanwall Façades’ involvement in this project began in 2017 when they were appointed as the main façade consultant for the development. As the primary façade consultant, Spanwall Façades played a pivotal role in the project’s façade design and development. Their role involved providing façade design services, including façade material selection, façade system design, and façade detailing. Spanwall Façades worked closely with the project team to ensure that the façade design met the client’s requirements and was in line with building regulations and standards. Key to the project was the façade system design. Spanwall Façades selected and specified a façade system that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. They considered factors such as climate, wind resistance, and building regulations when making their selection. The façade system was designed to provide an optimal balance between these factors, ensuring that the building would be both durable and energy-efficient. The façade detailing was also a critical aspect of the project. Spanwall Façades worked closely with the project team to ensure that the façade detailing was accurate and in line with the client’s requirements. They provided detailed drawings and specifications for the façade detailing, which were used to construct the façade. In addition to the façade design and detailing, Spanwall Façades also provided façade installation services. They worked closely with the main contractor to ensure that the façade was installed to a high standard, and that all necessary connections and interfaces were made.
The cladding was arranged in a staggered pattern to create a sense of depth and visual interest. The bespoke rainscreen system was designed to provide a seamless transition between the building’s exterior and interior spaces. The system was engineered to withstand the harsh marine environment, with a focus on durability and weather resistance. The cladding was designed to be easily removable and replaceable, allowing for future maintenance and upgrades. The architects’ vision was to create a building that was not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable and environmentally friendly. The rainscreen system was designed to minimize the building’s carbon footprint, with features such as:
The building’s design was influenced by the surrounding landscape, with a focus on creating a sense of harmony and balance. The architects incorporated natural materials and textures into the design, such as:
The building’s façade was designed to be visually striking, with a unique combination of materials and textures. The bespoke rainscreen system was used to create a sense of depth and visual interest, with the staggered pattern of the cladding adding to the building’s aesthetic appeal. The building’s sustainability features were also influenced by the surrounding environment.
The entire system was then assembled and tested in an on-site build. This was a first for the industry in terms of scale and complexity. The Spanwall system was developed by a company called, NCS, and was first introduced in 2007. NCS is a UK-based company that specializes in the development of innovative building solutions.
Challenges and Solutions
The project presented several challenges, including the need for a unique façade design that would meet the client’s requirements while also addressing the site constraints. The site was a former industrial area, with limited access and restricted visibility. The client required a façade that would not only provide insulation but also create a visually appealing exterior. • The façade design had to be carefully considered to ensure that it would not obstruct the natural light and ventilation of the building.
Digital Twin Technology
The use of digital twin technology in the construction industry has been gaining significant attention in recent years. This innovative approach involves creating a virtual replica of a physical object or system, allowing for real-time monitoring and analysis of its performance.
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