A self-supporting daylighting system proved an ideal solution for a new dining concourse in CDA Group Architects' redesigned Gateshead shopping mall
Vitral, now part of Velux Commercial, has manufactured and delivered innovative daylight glazing solutions at the Metrocentre in Gateshead as part of a multi-million-pound investment programme.
Edinburgh-based architects CDA Group was appointed to reconfigure the former Mediterranean Village, which originally opened in 1996. The client wanted to expand the centre’s dining options by adding a range of larger units.
CDA enlarged the Mediterranean Village by extending over the service areas and changing the position and orientation of the mall. To maximise the daylighting potential using new and replacement rooflights, CDA chose Velux Glazing Panels [PDF], previously known as Vitral A74 roof glazing.
They offered key benefits, including the ability to be self-supporting, reducing the need for additional structure. The glazing system does not have a carrier frame as with patent glazing and curtain walling as it is a four-sided frame.
Openable Velux Glazing Panels were integrated into the glazing scheme to allow for smoke-ventilation, contributing to the centre’s fire strategy and fulfilling the requirements of the project specification. Velux Glazing Panels are CE marked in accordance with BS EN 14351-1.
The Velux Glazing Panels and core parts of the accessories were pre-fabricated for quicker and safer installation on-site, crucial to keeping disruption to a minimum. The system’s slim and low panel joints maximise the amount of light penetrating through the glazing into the mall, helping create the modern aesthetic CDA wanted to achieve.
Experts at Velux Commercial provided technical guidance and drawings for the daylight solution and advice on how to incorporate the stringent requirements for mall glazing. Velux Commercial and CDA created a performance specification for the roof glazing, which was tendered by Sir Robert McAlpine.
For more on this case study, visit commercial.velux.co.uk/case-study/metrocentre