Knauf Ceiling Solutions' dynamic, bright orange ceiling and wall systems have become a hallmark of the award-winning Grade A office building in one of the UK's most ambitious regeneration projects. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but the form and function provided by these unique solutions create an unbeatable combination.
Falconer Chester Hall Architects, frequent users of Knauf Ceiling Solutions' products, specified the METAL R-H 200 standard perforated Metal Hook-On planks with acoustic fleece within a hidden grid for the atrium feature ceiling in Birkenhead's Kingsgate building; this construction was completed for £11.4 million.
The four-storey walls are gorgeously accentuated by Knauf Ceiling Solutions' vibrant METAL Wallcoustic Horizon 1000 perforated metal wall system. This brilliant orange product was custom-cut to fit perfectly and supplied for easy installation, hanging in a vertical brickwork pattern that matches the ceiling's layout.
To adhere to the BREEAM "Excellent" rating, Kingsgate chose a metal ceiling and suspension system that is Cradle to Cradle Certified®, ensuring sustainability in its design.
Stephen Fieldsend of Falconer Chester Hall reported that Knauf Ceiling Solutions were selected specifically to diminish the noise level in The Contact Company's busiest office areas; it also helps mitigate sound reverberation from the prominent atrium feature wall and ceiling.
“We have worked with Knauf Ceiling Solutions continually on office developments. On this one particularly the materials interface fantastically well with the other materials used on the project. We had continual help from Knauf Ceiling Solutions for the visual aesthetics to the main atrium space”
—Stephen Fieldsend, Falconer Chester Hall
Longmeadow Estates tasked us to craft an office building of nearly 5,000m² that would serve as a benchmark for potential future development within the redevelopment area and accomplish their client's expectations.
Drawing inspiration from Liverpool's rich history and the trading vessels that used to frequent its waters, this building is a modern testament to sustainability. It looks ahead with a keen vision of progress while paying homage to its maritime roots.
“The building has transformed a plot of empty derelict land into a modern, environmentally friendly office development, having been designed to meet the BREEAM Excellent standard for sustainability. All specified materials have significant green credentials.
It has been described as a `strategic flagship development’, and is the new home of one of Wirral’s leading employers—helping to secure their future in the locality and providing a statement of confidence in a new enterprise zone. Another indication of its success is that it was finished on budget and two weeks early, demonstrating a rigorous approach to providing value for money and to construction timetables.”
—Stephen Fieldsend, Falconer Chester Hall
In a matter of months, Eric Wright Construction transformed the former dockland into an impressive building with steel frames and concrete floors. Subcontractor CLM Drylining then worked tirelessly for three months to finish off the decors by constructing ceiling and wall systems. A team of eight skilled specialists diligently completed this task.
The iconic Kingsgate, formerly known as the Tower Wharf project, is at the heart of Wirral Waters; a 500-acre regeneration scheme and part of Mersey Waters Enterprise Zone—one of four government-designated areas for incentivising investment and spurring growth.
Standing as one of the UK's most ambitious regeneration schemes, Wirral Waters and Liverpool Waters will benefit from a staggering £10 billion investment. These two projects rest on either side of the glorious River Mersey at Liverpool's renowned docklands, promising to transform this area with world-class facilities for years to come.
Kingsgate won Best Commercial Building in the 2016 North West RICS awards which said:
“This high-quality office development, built on a former derelict land site, has added much-needed Grade A office accommodation to the Wirral Enterprise Zone and brought around 400 jobs to the area. Judges praised the project team—Longmeadow Estates, Eric Wright Construction and Falconer Chester Hall—for kick-starting the Wirral Waters Regeneration Project with such an exemplary building whose design echoes the shipping heritage of the area.”
Products Used:
> METAL R-H 200 standard perforated Metal Hook-On planks with acoustic fleece within a concealed suspension system
> METAL Wallcoustic Horizon 1000 standard perforated metal wall system with standard perforation (Rg 2516)
