Barclays Global Investors
Architect/Designer: Pringle Brandon Main Contractor/Customer: Overburys
In the head offices of Barclays Global Investors, Architen Landrell was asked to work closely with ‘Soft Cell’ manufacturers Kvadrat to install a series of hanging acoustic panels.
The large size of the ceiling meant that there was a problem with acoustics – the double floor layer was causing footsteps and office noise to echo around the room and disturb workers. By using these panels, architects Pringle Brandon created a feature of the space as well as helping with the acoustic problems. The fabric was printed in four different shades of red to add interest.
In the partnership with Kvadrat, Architen Landrell’s role was to oversee the manufacture of the 28 panels which would be mounted back to back to create 14 suspended features. The company supplied the E-Screen fabric – chosen specifically because of its printing potential and acoustic performance - to Kvadrat in order to produce the panels, which were then installed by the Architen Landrell installation team. Additionally, we oversaw the design of the mounting system and flashing details.
Sucessfully completed on schedule, both Architen Landrell and the client are pleased with the finished project – as far as we know this is the only instance when the ‘Soft Cell’ acoustic panels have been installed back to back and hung from a ceiling; an interesting variation on the ‘Soft Cell’ theme!