Senior Architectural Systems has taken its aluminium fenestration solutions to new heights after being specified on the new Oaklands Rise mixed-use residential development in London, which is not only one of the UK’s largest regeneration projects but also one of Senior’s largest contracts to date.
Designed by CZWG Architects and constructed by the Vistry Partnership, the £175m scheme comprises three major tower blocks which vary in height from ten to 27 storeys. The buildings accommodate some 605 homes, 40 per cent of which are affordable housing, in addition to dedicated commercial space. Senior’s stylish and thermally efficient aluminium doors, windows and curtain wall systems have been specified throughout, with the manufacturer collaborating closely with its supply chain partners. Senior partnered with specialist contractor OCL Facades to deliver the fenestration package for the first phase residential scheme and with specialist contractor Soundcraft on the commercial elements.
Located in the Old Oak’s area of Willesden in North West London, the development’s striking curved architecture has helped breathe new life into the local area. Senior’s slim profile SF52 aluminium curtain wall system has been used to create the striking faceted curved elevation, with the smooth rounded corners of the balconies and corner apartments further accentuating the design. Senior’s robust SPW500 aluminium commercial doors were used externally and installed to the fire exits and main entrance, with SPW600 aluminium doors fitted internally throughout communal areas.
With the need to increase energy efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of the scheme, Senior’s patented low U-value PURe® aluminium windows and PURe® SLIDE patio doors were also chosen for the scheme. As well as contributing to lower energy bills for the residents, the slim sightlines of the PURe® aluminium windows and doors perfectly frame the development’s far-reaching views over London and the attractive green streetscape below. The stylish PURe® SLIDE aluminium sliding doors also provide select apartments with access to individual roof terraces, creating a seamless link between the interior and exterior spaces.
Senior’s aluminium fenestration systems were also powder-coated to provide extra durability and to complement the aesthetic of exterior brickwork which pays homage to the rich industrial heritage of development’s surroundings and close proximity to the Grand Union Canal and a historic Grade II railway bridge.
Oaklands Rise has been developed by Genesis Housing in partnership with West London football club Queens Park Rangers, which has expressed interest in creating a brand new stadium in the area. Constructed over several phases, Senior Architectural Systems first became involved in the scheme in 2016, with the total fenestration package value estimated to be in the region of £7m, making it Senior’s most substantial contract win to date.
