Edwardian Hotels – The Londoner

Woods Bagot and the client approached Levolux in 2017 and requested design input relating to bespoke solution requirements in a variety of areas including the roof, level 7&8 and Mezzanine. Working closely with Woods Bagot, Levolux provided design input for the custom decorative fins, screening and supporting structure.

Levolux developed the plant screening design proposal from an early stage in accordance with the free area requirement, as well as considering the issue of space limitation. The solution featured the combination of the Levolux 9200 Aerofoil inverted Infiniti® system as well as solid Aluminium folded panels fixed to mild steel posts and supporting rails to screen the plant area.

The vertical decorative fins that shroud the roof perimeter were originally designed to be supplied by others in GRP. However due to fire regulations and to avoid further discussions with Westminster planning, Levolux were approached to provide an alternative aluminium option.

The decorative fins challenged the Levolux design team, due to their unique shape but also tolerances, which were in some places less than 5mm. Corner details were incredibly complicated due to requiring two fins to be welded together which called for a totally unique bracket to secure back to the structure.

To achieve the design intent and to check the design was buildable, several mock-ups were manufactured until the final solution was achieved to meet the required tolerance limitation, appearance and structural brief. Two pieces of 3mm aluminium were shaped, folded, and welded to an extruded box section spanning a maximum of 6.3m between fixing brackets. The fins were then dressed and finished in a PPC semi-gloss to add that finishing touch.

Levolux worked closely with Blue Sky Building to coordinate installation as the façade and roof were highly congested therefore coordination with other stakeholders was an essential factor. The project was completed in February 2020.