Going large in Cardiff
3rd February 2015

Glazing elements by leading architectural aluminium systems supplier Kawneer are featuring on the largest construction project in Cardiff which itself features one of the largest photovoltaic arrays in the UK.

Kawneer’s zone-drained AA®100 and AA®110 curtain walling, with 50 and 65mm sightlines respectively, were specified with AA®541 top-hung casement windows by architects BDP for all elevations on the new £45million Cardiff and Vale College. Kawneer’s mullion-drained AA®100 curtain walling also features as the bespoke atrium rooflight.

Currently under construction on former industrial land south of the city’s central station by main contractor Willmott Dixon, the new state-of-the-art college overlooking Cardiff Bay is due to open in autumn 2015. The Kawneer elements are being installed by approved specialist manufacturer and installer AB Glass.

Formed after the merger of Barry College and Coleg Glan Hafren, the distinctively shaped building will bring together education and training facilities onto a single campus in the heart of the city. Its shape is designed to allow interior spaces to connect with south-facing terraces.

An over-sailing roof angled to accommodate a 1,850m2 photovoltaic array will top a conference centre, gym, spa, beauty salons, shops and a fine dining sky restaurant with views across the city to the Millennium Stadium, all of which will be open to the public seven days a week.

The merger came as part of the Welsh Government’s bid to transform post-16 education and training in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan. The development is being backed by a £20million Welsh Government grant.

Welsh Government Education Minister Leighton Andrews said: “When completed, this impressive new building will become a focal point for learners, employers and communities, helping to drive forward economic activity within the region.”