Projects

 The refurbishment of the Diamond Building at UUC at a cost of £2.5m that included the re-cladding of the existing external façade.

Brooks Bros involvement
Supplying approximately 40,000mt of various sections of PEFC certified untreated, kiln dried Western Red Cedar (fixed to FSC certified battens) - chosen for its’ appearance, inherent durability, sustainability, dimensional stability, cost and low maintenance properties. Also, because the timber is relative light in weight, it was ideal for fixing onto the existing structure.
Its’ adaptability allowed the sections to be sized to suit the existing 12ft structural grid and to be detailed to accommodate movement.

A number of factors contributed to Brooks Bros (UK) Ltd, Skelmersdale securing the contract - price was one – but others included sustainability, quality, service, and expertise.
The fixings and profile design evolved through consultation with Brooks Bros (UK) Ltd and joinery specialists with guidance from TRADA.

Sample panels were presented before fixing details, suitable timber lengths, preferred joint positions and section sizes were finalised.

Over time the timber will turn silver and compliment the palette of adjoining materials.
The installation of the insulated Cedar rain-screen has reduced the areas of previous glazing, creating a bookend effect and its’ heavy profiling (repeated on a 6ft grid) provides depth and continually changing shadowing … adding visual texture to the building.  

Contract Duration
August 2010 – April 2011 (33 weeks)

Recognition

Because of its’ timber content the project has been nominated for an award in The Wood Awards 2011, Britain’s premier award for wood in buildings and furniture.