X2 – the UK’s first multi-storey warehouse with full HGV access – has been completed next to London Heathrow Airport. Designed by Cornish Architects for developer Brixton plc, the development is not only an innovative solution for maximising the potential of a site in areas of high value land but it also features the UK’s first application of Kalwall’s new Verti-Kal design. Verti-Kal is used to clad the five three-storey stair towers in the 22,000sqm facility which comprises 8 units of warehousing with offices. The upper level is accessed by two ramps each capable of accommodating HGVs.
Verti-Kal is a variation of the Kalwall daylight transmitting system where, instead of the standard Japanese style grid layout, the panels incorporate internal continuous supports to provide a vertical emphasis. Unlike conventional channel glass, Verti-Kal can be supplied in panels up to 1.5m wide and up to 3m high which minimises the number of joints. It also performs better in eliminating shadows and glare as well as stark contrasts of light and shade.
The translucent and highly insulating Kalwall Verti-Kal system was specified because of its unique ability to distribute diffused daylight evenly to create a stunning internal ambience. Even on cloudy days, the interior is flooded with natural daylight, which means less artificial lighting and reduced energy costs. At night, the warehouse glows.
Technical and project information is readily available from www.stoakes.co.uk
Tel: 0208 660 7667
Email: mailbox@stoakes.co.uk
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