d+b facades Case Study - Imperial College London, Mechanical Engineering Annexe

The architect’s original design was over-budget. Imperial College approached d+b facades to provide alternative proposals which followed the architect’s design intent but which could be delivered more economically. We developed a ‘hybrid’ aluminium rainscreen solution using plank-shaped panels anodised in 4 subtly different colours. High-performance replacement windows were incorporated and the existing fenestration substantially changed. The original building’s curtain wall contained asbestos in all spandrel panels below the windows. Our solution enabled the existing façade to remain intact, encapsulating the asbestos. Given the Annex’s location a high-quality appearance was imperative and, with the approaching London Olympics, certainty of on-time delivery was also critical. Both were achieved.

d+b facades is an EAUC Company Member.