At Maple, we pride ourselves in working closely with architects ― from project concept to delivery. However, at Woodcote Grove in Surrey, they were right next door.
Atkins were redeveloping their offices in Epsom to provide more modern, efficient and flexible working spaces. For a firm renowned for its iconic buildings around the world, the design also had to be outstanding. But cost and value for money were prime considerations too. All of which put Maple under close scrutiny ― especially as we were awarded the contract on the strength of our reputation, quality and reliability of our products, and attention to detail. The building was designed with large areas of glazing to make the most of the views of the surrounding parkland and benefit from natural light. However, with natural light comes solar gain and glare. We manufactured and installed a protective and visually striking façade using large aluminium vertical fins on the south elevation to diffuse the sun’s rays and reduce overheating. Extending to two storeys in height, the fins are 700mm deep and required bespoke fixings. Elsewhere, large banks of horizontal brise soleil blades cloak the building and make the inside more comfortable for works and visitors. The design of the new building is intended to meet the highest sustainability targets, including BREEAM Excellent and an A-rated Energy Performance Certificate (EPA). It is scheduled to open by the end of 2018.