Maple are creating some of the largest brise soleil blades ever seen in the UK for a new innovation centre in Hull.
Designed by the architects to be both visual and practical, the brise soleil system will extend more than 4m from the building elevation to provide protection from direct sun right down to ground level.
Typically, separate above-window brise soleil would fulfil a similar function and while other suppliers proposed that approach (or suggested shorter lengths), Maple rose to the architects’ challenge.
The aluminium blades, which are 1.2m wide, will be manufactured in our Stockport factory and will incorporate internal, reinforcing ‘stiffeners’.
In total, five banks of blades will extend round 46m of the building. They will be fixed to a steel frame that extends from the roof, and will be supported by vertical columns. Maple’s attention to detail, characterised by the hidden reinforcement, will extend to mitred corners and specialist fixings. When complete, the blades will be craned into position and installed by our specialist team.
The Aura Innovation Centre will create a centre of excellence for firms looking to collaborate in the renewable energy sector, including offshore wind and low-carbon technology. The project is being spearheaded by the University of Hill, with funding from a number of partners.