Newcastle University Innovation Centre

Levolux worked with GSS Architecture and Charles Henshaw & Sons to develop the concept design into a practical solution that could be installed within the tolerances required to create this prominent façade. This was made possible thanks to Levolux’s expertise in design, engineering and fabrication and its ability to develop the design in 3D with BIM modelling.

The designed solution comprised the Levolux Infiniti fin system that forms a large triangular beam. As the profile was too large to be produced as a single solution, multi-part extruded structural louvres were manufactured and clipped together to form the beams.

The bespoke extrusion design allowed a completely hidden connection on the back of louvre, simplifying installation by allowing sufficient tolerance for the complex building geometry.

Levolux worked closely with Charles Henshaw & Sons Ltd to co-ordinate installation with the fitting of the curtain walling solution. Levolux’s patented Triniti bracket enabled the Infiniti system to be fixed back to structure in a thermally-broken manner.

The diagrid appearance required a cruciform joint at each intersection, which involved twin angle cuts to each end of every section. Accuracy for these could only be achieved by cutting the profile after assembly. This required Levolux to manufacture custom cutting jigs, due to the compound angles being outside the capability of most cutting equipment.

This project represents a truly striking example of Levolux’s approach to solution development – CONNECT.  COLLABORATE.  CREATE. – working alongside all stakeholders to translate the architectural intent into a practically achievable façade solution.

The building has already started to attract attention, winning a number of awards, including:

• Constructing Excellence North East ‘Integration & Collaborative Working’ 2020, awarded to Bowmer & Kirkland;
• Insider Property Awards (North East) 2020 – ‘Design Excellence Award’ awarded to GSS Architecture.