National Automotive Innovation Centre: ETFE Cushion Rooflights

• 150m² of three-layer ETFE cushion rooflights
• Natural daylight for collaborative innovation spaces
• Optimised thermal performance

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Architen Landrell delivered 150m² of ETFE cushion rooflights for a collaborative working space in the National Automotive Innovation Centre (NAIC) at the University of Warwick, helping to create a bright, collaborative environment within one of the UK’s leading research facilities.

Architectural Concept

Working from a design originally conceived by Cullinan Studio, the architectural scheme included 11no. 3 layer ETFE cushion rooflights dotted amongst more traditional roof covering systems. The building’s design was developed around the principle that innovation is accelerated when researchers, engineers and designers can interact informally across disciplines. As a result, the building is made up of a series of interconnected atria and collaborative spaces that encourage movement, visibility and chance encounters between users.

The central atrium, home to the Architen ETFE Cushion rooflights, forms the hub for this collaborative space. A dramatic timber diagrid roof forms the defining architectural feature, with pockets of natural light shining down on the space below through the high light transmission ETFE cushions.

Seeking Specialist Advice

Employed as the UK’s leading ETFE foil system specialist, Architen Landrell was responsible for the design, engineering, manufacture and installation of the ETFE cushion rooflights. Working with Cullinan Studio and the Main Contractor, we collaborated on the integration of the ETFE cushions within the wider roof structure and the configuration of the ETFE foil cushions to ensure that thermal performance (U value) and solar gain parameters (G value) could be met.

Benefits of using ETFE Cushion Rooflights

Architen’s ETFE foil cushion system was chosen for this project for a number of key reasons:

• The lightweight nature of ETFE foil complemented the building’s ambitious long-span roof design and sustainability objectives.
• ETFE foil cushions ensured a high level of light transmission, flooding collaborative workspaces and circulation areas with natural daylight and reducing the need for artificial lighting.
• High-performance ETFE cushion system contributes to thermal efficiency and occupant comfort.
• The durability and low-maintenance characteristics of ETFE foil made it an ideal solution for a high-profile public building designed for long-term use

This project remains an excellent example of how ETFE cushion rooflights can enhance modern architecture through lightweight design, natural daylight and long-term performance.

Project Facts

Architect: Cullinan Studio

Main Contractor: Balfour Beatty

Completion: 2019

ETFE System: Architen 3 layer ETFE cushions

ETFE Area: 150m²

Scope: Design, engineering, manufacture and installation