Editor’s Choice
SHOWCASING
DAYLIGHT
The UK’s biggest Cooper BMW car showroom has opened
in Reading. It was designed by MDG architects, specialists in
the design of automotive dealership buildings both nationwide
and overseas. The 13,000 sqm three storey building, which showcases over 100 new and approved used cars, marks a major
relocation for Cooper BMW from its previous smaller site into a
state of the art new facility.
To complement the displays, the architects chose to specify the
Kalwall translucent system for the elevation and for use on the
main entrance canopy. This stunning backdrop, supplied and installed by Structura UK, helps to diffuse natural daylight deep
into the interior thereby creating a well-lit and aesthetically
pleasing ambience. At night, the elevation emits an ethereal and
attractive exterior glow.
Unlike conventional glazing, Kalwall eliminates shadows and
glare and the stark contrasts of light and shade. The system also
enhances simplicity by eliminating the need for blinds, curtains
or solar control. Even on cloudy days, the interior is flooded with
natural daylight,
which means less artificial lighting and, because Kalwall is highly
insulating, energy costs are reduced.
Kalwall is distributed in England, Wales and Northern Ireland by
Structura UK, a leading supplier, fabricator and installer of glass
curtain walling, rainscreens, glass atria, windows and other
architectural glass building products.
The company has had all three of its ISO certifications successfully renewed for three years: OHSAS 18001 Health and
Safety Management, ISO 14001 Environmental Management
certification and ISO 9001 Quality Management certification.
Case studies and technical information are available from
Structura UK Ltd,
Tel: 01233 501 504
or visit www.structura-uk.com/kalwal
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