ArcelorMittal Orbit is a 114m structure with observation decks at 80m and 85m, giving panoramic views of London. It is both an accessible piece of public art and a visitor attraction.
An external stair spirals down from the observation decks, functioning as part of the visitor experience and as escape stairs. It is enclosed by a frameless stainless steel mesh providing the necessary sense of enclosure whilst allowing good views out. This enclosure looks more solid when viewed from the ground, than from within. All walkway floors and stair treads are punched steel panels, giving glimpses of what is happening below. Visitor comfort is enhanced by underfloor heating and cooling, a tuned mass damper at the top of the lift shaft structure, and a mixed mode environmental system for the observation decks.
The project was delivered via an intense set of linked workstreams: design, approvals, procurement, manufacture, installation and commissioning moved ahead in parallel.
