Cardiff University Brain Research Centre
7th March 2017

Architectural glazing systems by KAWNEER were value-engineered as part of the second phase of Cardiff University’s Science and Innovation campus.

Three versions of its AA100 curtain walling, complemented by two versions of AA541 windows, and AA545 and series 190 doors feature on the £24 million CUBRIC (Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre) building.

The new building is four times larger than the university’s old facilities, meaning staff from different departments now benefit from being housed under one roof.

The 6,500m2 facility provides a mix of medical research, including an NHS-standard medical suite with drug trial unit and specialist MRI and Magnetoencephalography (MEG) scanning suites, laboratories, office accommodation and large seminar facilities with outside garden terrace.

Kawneer’s AA100 curtain walling as zone-drained capped and SSG (Structurally Silicone Glazed) versions with 50mm sightlines help to form the terracotta-tiled external facades while the AA110 version with 65mm sightlines has been used as rooflights.

These are joined by AA541 top-hung casement windows as standard and as SSG vents, and by AA545 medium-duty swing doors and series 190 heavy-duty narrow-style commercial entrance doors.

IBI Group senior architectural technician Anthony Picton said: “The entrance atrium is almost fully glazed and the projecting side wings were fully glazed so the correct solar treatment to the glazing played a big part. The Kawneer systems complied with the aesthetic and performance requirements of the project perfectly.”

The Kawneer systems were installed over nine months by sub-contractor Dudley’s Aluminium for main contractor BAM Construction.

www.kawneer.co.uk