Archetech Issue 48 2020 | Page 58

ROOFING & CLADDING NEW SURFACE SERIES LAUNCHED ALUCOBOND® rocca from 3A Composites GmbH, is a new range of four surface designs which takes its inspiration from the rugged stone formations and features that have shaped the natural world for millennia. Rocca, from ALUCOBOND®, is stripped of all colour, with its unique visual character revealed only by light refraction on its surface to present an almost raw primal beauty that is in tune with the natural landscape and when used with ALUCOBOND® A2, a non- SPV COMPLETE CLADDING WORKS AT THE NEC SPV Group- the Walsall based refurbishment specialists, have recently completed Phase 2 of the cladding works at The NEC, Birmingham. combustible panel with a mineral-filled core, it meets all of the strict The cladding works requirements of fire regulations too. undertaken by SPV form part of a £4.5 Four shades are available within the rocca range; the soft jet black of million transformation ‘Graphite’, the rugged terrain of ‘Dolomite’ anthracite, the weathered which will completely iron-grey of a ‘Meteorite’, the crisp silver-white of ‘Quartzite’ and change the look and feel of the iconic Birmingham based venue. The all finishes feature a perceptibly textured structure where light is new design has recently seen 37 pyramid translucent structures broken up naturally into the widest range of shades. Uniquely, the installed – created by architects Acivico – that can be backlit to create surfaces seamlessly shift between defined and vibrant or softer and a stunning visual effect sandwiched between the pyramids are a series subtle, depending on the viewing angle or how light falls on to it – of vibrant colour panels designed by global agency McCann. not unlike that of natural stone. ALUCOBOND® rocca is available in ALUCOBOND® PLUS and ALUCOBOND® A2 and is ideal for all building The finished result using this innovative technology is visually façade applications or can be used to give individual character and stunning. The project has not only transformed and modernised the aesthetic to structures such as balconies or entrance areas, where dated building which was originally built in 1976, but has also made the architects seek that enigmatic natural stone look. area a far more dynamic and engaging environment for all customers and set the NEC apart as one of the best leisure destinations in the For details about ALUCOBOND® rocca or any of its surface country. SPV’s remit was the installation of designed metal rainscreen colours and finishes, as well as information about the company’s cassette panel cladding complete with bespoke flashings. products and services, visit www.alucobond.com or call + 44 (0) 75 84 68 02 62. www.spv-uk.co.uk SAFE ACCESS FOR THE NEW ALBUKHARY FOUNDATION GALLERY OF THE ISLAMIC WORLD Bilco UK supplied twenty one special size Ladder Access Roof Hatches to the British Museum’s newest gallery. The new, permanent, exhibition space is a result of the renovation and joining together of two beautiful Victorian galleries located in the ‘White Wing’ area of the Museum. The galleries had been closed for several years as they were in need Ladder access was required to the roof void area to allow for routine maintenance activities. Bilco UK’s SS-50TB Ladder of renovation. Access Roof Hatches were specified by the architects, HoK. The Albukhary Foundation Gallery of the Islamic World displays Coniston Limited, who have a reputation for delivering heritage magnificent works of art alongside everyday objects. The aim is and conservation projects and a long history of working with the to enable the visitor to explore the cultural significance, breadth British Museum. The installation was managed by the Principle Contractor, and impact of the Islamic world in a creative and exciting way. Audio-visuals and specialist lighting bring the culture of the The SS-50TB Roof Hatches were made to order as they were Islamic world to life. required in a larger non-standard size, 1215mm x 915mm, than the standard stock sizes. The hatches were also manufactured The roof of the White Wing was originally laid in lead but was later with a PPC finish to blend in with the new roof. replaced with copper in the 1960s. As part of the refurbishment of the two galleries it was decided to return the roof to its original If you would like to find out more about safe and easy access lead design. The roof timbers and boarding were overhauled, and to roof areas for your next project please call forty-five tonnes of new lead added. 01284 701696 or visit www.bilcouk.co.uk. ARCHETECH - PAGE 58