The Challenge:
As part of a new build school for Harris Academy Bromley, Whitesales was engaged to design and install a series of rooflights - some featuring ventilation – above classrooms, stairwells and the dining area. We also needed to fine tune the architects’ design and guide the contractors on the final installation. The initial shape and layout had been created, but expert advice was needed to turn the concepts into an achievable reality. Since the school design was high-spec, a visually low-profile and sleek appearance was vital. The project brought several challenges: the rooflight upstands specified were wide and included louvre ventilation with a concrete render cladding system; the rooflights needed to achieve a large volume of ventilation; and the expanses of glass needed to be offset for solar gain.
The Solution:
In close consultation with the entire project team, we specified a combination of monopitch Em-Glaze rooflights and Em-Glaze modular. We also designed bespoke flashings to cover the upstand details and work alongside the louvre panels. Using SKN176 high-performance solar control coating enabled us to meet the target g-values for reduced heat gain.
We installed the monopitch skylights on a low 15° pitch, each divided into equal panes and carefully calculated to align internally with internal wall finishes. The stairwell and dining area units each incorporate a minimum 6.5m² geometric free area. All units incorporated different powder-coating (white internally, grey externally), and our designs concealed wiring wherever possible.
The Benefits:
- A risk-reducing end-to-end solution for the project team
- Low-profile rooflights enhance the learning environment with impressive natural light
- Solar control glazing helps maintain optimum temperatures
Project: Harris Academy, Beckenham
Client: Kier
Scope of project: Rooflights and ventilation above classrooms, stairwell and dining area
Products: Bespoke Em-Glaze monopitch rooflights and Em-Glaze modular
