The new sports complex at the Solent University in Southampton has been kitted out with a high-performance aluminium fenestration package from Senior Architectural Systems.
Designed by Architecture PLB, the University’s new sports building offers a range of facilities for both students and the general public and has been created as part of the wider redevelopment of the East Park Terrace campus. The complex comprises a four-storey tower block, which accommodates teaching areas, gym facilities and fitness studios, alongside a separate sports hall block.
The flagship scheme features a striking façade design which not only complements both its natural environment and the style of the neighbouring buildings, but also showcases the attractive slim sightlines offered by Senior’s aluminium glazing systems. The main tower block is wrapped in perforated veil cladding which is punctuated by Senior’s thermally-enhanced SPW600 aluminium windows. The effect of the cladding means that during the day, some windows are concealed while others provide a glimpse of the activity taking place within. At dusk, with the addition of artificial light, the building is transformed as all the windows become visible. On the smaller sports hall building, the dark brickwork façade design has been balanced by Senior’s Hybrid timber aluminium windows which help to flood the interior spaces with natural light.
A stylish and welcoming entrance to the sports complex has been created through the use of Senior’s slim profile SF52 aluminium curtain walling, which has been installed to the ground floor level of the main building. Combining aesthetic appeal with exceptional thermal efficiency, the SF52 curtain wall system has been integrated with Senior’s robust SPW501 commercial doors to provide safe and secure access to the new facilities. Senior’s aluminium products were designed and fabricated for main contractor Morgan Sindall Construction.
Energy-efficiency and sustainable design were both key drivers in the design and development of the new sports complex and the completed scheme has been awarded an ‘excellent’ BREEAM rating. Through early engagement with the client, architect and main contractor, Senior’s architectural advisory team were on hand to provide valuable technical assistance throughout the specification process in order to achieve the most efficient fenestration package possible. By sourcing all systems from the one supplier, potential risks and delays were also minimised and the new sports complex was successfully completed on time to open in May 2019.
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