Shackerley has demonstrated the extraordinary design potential and versatility of its Sureclad® ventilated cladding systems by supplying innovative engineered stone façades for a challenging installation at Kew Bridge West, an exclusive development of 336 luxury apartments in North London.
Prefabricated system
2400m2 of fully prefabricated Sureclad® engineered stone cladding in a natural limestone colourway and honed finish has provided a premium quality aesthetic for the lower storeys of the nine apartment buildings in this stunning complex, designed by Stockwool and developed by St James, part of the Berkeley Group.
Curved engineered stone panels
Two circular towers called for smooth rounded façades and Shackerley's Sureclad® Hang On system had to be customised to cater for large format curved panels, cut to a radius from solid blocks of engineered stone. Additional challenges included the design of elegantly faceted façades to clad curved elevations of adjacent buildings, designed to reflect the development's 'horseshoe' design.
Close collaboration
Shackerley and specialist façade installation contractor Stanmore worked very closely together, developing bespoke solutions at every stage, from the design of the Sureclad® façades to the palletisation of the prefabricated system. Stanmore's installers also visited Shackerley to receive expert training in the use of the Sureclad® system.
NHBC criteria
As this was the first time that curved engineered stone panels had been used in conjunction with Sureclad®, the companies arranged for the bespoke facade system to be tested to NHBC criteria at VINCI Technology Centre UK.
Collaborative project
Stanmore Commercial Director Peter Baker said: 'We were responsible for delivering all the external façades, curtain walling, doors, windows and other external finishes on this project but the engineered stone cladding was by far the most highly valued element of the job. Close collaboration with our supplier was absolutely crucial. By planning and modelling the installation in detail and working hand in hand with Shackerley's technical team, we achieved superb results for our client. The overall experience was very positive and we're looking forward to working on other Sureclad® projects in the future.'
Results
Construction Director at St James, Brian Paterson, commented: 'It was only when we came to value engineer the Kew Bridge West project that Shackerley's system was brought to our attention. As a result of switching the engineered stone specification to Sureclad®, we've undoubtedly benefitted from a more flexible and lighter façade solution than originally planned and from very substantial cost savings, whilst still achieving our architects' original design intention. We're delighted with the results'
For further details on the Sureclad® system please contact Shackerley on 0800 783 0391 or visit www.shackerley.com
