Timber cladding: Academy of Enterprise, Northolt, Middlesex

Profile:
In excess of 55,000 linear metres of Kiln-Dried Western Red Cedar rain-screen cladding has been installed on this project, all of which was supplied through the SFI certified Chain of Custody scheme.

Treated timber studs on a bespoke aluminium framework provide the grounds for the cedar slats, which are secured with stainless steel annular ring nails.

The correct use of vapour barrier, breather membrane and insulation board creates the specified thermal performance level for the building envelope.

Over 400 bespoke cedar louvres are fitted to the continuous runs of ground and first floor windows, as part of the overall design of the fagades.

Dramatic nine metre long cedar Glulam Beams feature in bays of six between blocks to provide sun screening on the south side of the building. Advanced lamination techniques were developed specifically for this job.

Aluminium copings are installed to the perimeter of the roof, complemented by architectural aluminium flashings at the foot of each elevation.

BCL applied the highest quality control standards throughout the design, manufacture and installation stages of this project, to ensure that the Architect's vision for this highly impressive building was fully realised.

Client:
Dept for Education & Skills (dfes)

Architect:
Foster & Partners

Main Contractor:
Taylor Woodrow Construction