Commercial
aluminium systems specialist AluK has been at the heart of a wholesale
refurbishment of a former Cadbury’s factory in Bristol – finding the recipe for
success in supplying customised window frames and curtain walling systems.
The
Chocolate Quarter is a £60m scheme developed by Bristol charity St Monica
Trust.
It
has seen the iconic factory redeveloped into a retirement village, with
assisted living, care home, doctors’ surgery and leisure facilities including a
gym and cinema.
As
the original factory is a landmark building, the structural parameters of the
existing building architecture and the systems had to meet specific planning
requirements.
With
that in mind, AluK collaborated Andrew Wilson Partnership, Newport architects,
KWL Architects Ltd, and Bristol architect AWW, to provide commercial windows,
doors and curtain walling fabricator EYG Commercial with a customised range of
systems to meet design challenges on the site.
EYG
then worked alongside our teams to implement a project delivery plan which saw
more than 900 AluK 58BW commercial casement windows delivered and installed
throughout the build programme.
The
first challenge for the project was to redesign the originally specified window
systems and curtain walling systems to achieve slimmer window sightlines
throughout the development.
The
AluK team provided new calculations for more than 8,000m2 of window systems, meeting specific frame colour requirements
as set by planners, and over 1,000m of AluK SL52 curtain walling to enhance the
development and bring the architect’s aesthetic vision to fruition.
To
meet the larger window openings from the original factory layout, found across
the site, AluK developed and engineered a customised 58BW ST 1500mm aluminium
frame system solution, larger than the standard 1200mm frame, and an ideal
replacement for existing steel frame windows.
Jordan
Kingman, architectural project manager at AluK, said: “With a growing ageing
population in the UK, the need for homes and developments suitable for later
life care and living is a significant issue.
“The
original chocolate factory is a recognisable landmark on the outskirts of
Bristol, and this new lease of life as a luxury retirement village is going to
benefit the local community of Keynsham, so it was essential to all involved
that the specified windows and door frame systems would enhance the design and
purpose of the site.
“AluK
worked with all partners to design, develop and deliver a range of customised
solutions that complemented the existing architecture and structure, and will
be a key feature of The Chocolate Quarter for many years to come.”
Neil
Ross, director of KWL Architects, added: “The successful redevelopment of the
landmark buildings requires expertise and precision through all stages of the
project, using building systems that complement the existing structure.
“Working
with AluK meant we were working with a company that could adapt its products
and systems to meet this challenging but rewarding brief, and the final result
is an iconic site now fit for a new purpose.”
Steve
Swallow, commercial director at EYG Commercial, said: “This was a challenging
contract, not only due to the sheer size and amount of products required, but
also the customised range of systems needed and the design challenges faced.
“In
such a situation it is paramount that all businesses involved work together and
have a clear understanding of what is required from the onset to meet the
precise needs of the customer.
“That
was the case from day one of this project, and for our part as fabricators and
installers, it makes the job much easier when working with the likes of AluK,
who fully understand our role and are able to customise their systems and
products in this way.”
