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case studies /

Multifunctional Bespoke Shading

Levolux, leader in the design, manufacture and installation of solar shading solutions, has created a bespoke, multifunctional shading solution for the new Biomedical School at the University of Southampton.

For the new three-storey building on the edge of the University Campus, architects Nightingale Associates had a number of specific requirements regarding the exterior of the building's elevations.

As well as a Brise Soleil solution and a method of accessing the exterior of the glass façade for cleaning and general maintenance, they also required a system that would provide a screen to offer privacy to residential properties located nearby.

Finally, as part of the design of a natural ventilation system, they required a solution that would act as an air speed filter, enabling occupants of the building to leave windows open during windy conditions, when normally they would be closed. Levolux was able to create a single system by ingeniously fusing existing products with a bespoke element to meet all four design criteria.

Effective Shading Against The Sun

The company installed its new, Walk On Brise Soleil system comprising a series of 'J' tread elements ingeniously spaced to provide effective shading against the sun. It was fixed to the first and second floors of the building to create a platform and features non-slip tops in lightweight extruded aluminium.

To the front of this, Levolux fixed a stainless steel multi barrette woven mesh which, in turn, was fixed to the Walk On Brise Soleil system with rods, and secured in place with springs at the top and bottom. The springs ensure the mesh is stretched evenly over the façade to provide an element of tolerance during windy conditions.

The mesh also provides privacy protection for the nearby residents by creating a visible barrier and a perceived obscuring of the views from inside the building. However, due to the nature of the mesh, restricted views outside the building can still be obtained and natural light is allowed to enter the building, whilst an element of solar shading is created.

effective air speed filter

To achieve the client's requirement of a naturally ventilated building, the mesh also provides an effective air speed filter, by helping to reduce the impact of strong winds on the buildings.

This enables the occupants of the building to keep the windows open for longer periods, as they can be left open in strong winds without the worry of draughts. Instead the mesh absorbs the strong winds and allows a steady through-flow of natural, cool, clean air creating a naturally ventilated building.

"Nightingale Associates were very pleased with the co-operation received from Levolux in designing this multi-functional façade element, which is already proving very successful", commented Bryan Graham, Senior Architect.

Like all systems from Levolux, the Walk On Brise Soleil and the stainless steel woven mesh is backed with the company's design, manufacture and installation package.

 

Architect:	Nightingale Associates
Products used:	Walk on Brise Soleil
	Bespoke Solution