The Mathematics Research Centre and Astronomy Unit at the Queen Mary University of London, draws visitors from all over the world. The re-development of the department encompassed a visually stunning façade designed and manufactured by Aliva.
Aliva worked with Wilkinson Eyre Architects to help develop a visually stunning façade, using the Ali Glass system also incorporating a bespoke curtain walling system. The plinth section was completed using the Ali HPLS high pressure laminate system and the areas around the foyer in a white rendered finish.
The new entrance to the department takes the form of a single storey structure with Ali Glass panels. Aliva also designed the bespoke curtain walling system, with large inclined glass panels across which the pattern continues.
The facade includes laminated glass in a rhomboid shape, with a side length of 1.2m, the inner glass layer being 10mm thick, the outer panel 6mm thick with a clear SGP interlayer between. Ali Glass anchors have been used to invisibly fix into the back of the inner glass panel. The weight of the glass panels and substructure is approximately 50 kg/m2. High performance K15 phenolic installation was used to insulate the building.
The substructure comprises of Aluminium fasteners and horizontal mullions fixed to vertical Ali 2 box sections, held by U brackets into a 200mm Concrete substrate.
The bespoke curtain walling system designed by Aliva consists of inclined glass panels up to 4m high. Stainless steel pressure plates are included to cope with wind loads. The curtain walling and rainscreen are designed so that the finish between the two is flush.
As an extension to the already reputable Queen Mary University of London, the building promises to set another standard for landmarks in the area.