VISION 40 — PLAYHOUSE
Was the rooftop always considered a crowning feature,
or an idea you helped to shape?
From day one we did anticipate childcare on the top
facility and the easiest way to get their requirement for
open space was to have a rooftop deck. The initial solution
actually incorporated decks on the lower levels as well,
so I had some deck space at their active level together
with some enclosed space on the roof deck level, but it
was part of the feature.
So where are all the non-services that are just
tucked away?
They’re tucked away on top of the building, but in a plant
room as knuckle at the top of the building. It’s a deep,
tucked away footprint.
How challenging was it to marry this kind of unusual
faced coat-of-arms with an unusual and conspicuous
tenant such as a pre-school centre.
Well that’s where a simple response was required and
part of that was in response to the adjacent building we
also designed, which has an abstract façade. We wanted
to continue that articulated façade and introduce colour
because most of the estate buildings are black and white.
How did your choice of Viridian’s SpectraSeraphic ™
range come about?
Viridian tend to be involved with most of our projects.
Glass is always an important element. We immediately
discussed how we could incorporate different colours
to really help create a special identity and finish.
We also had to consider glass in terms of energy
efficiency requirements and type of framing system to
complement the glass. We use spandrel glass on lots
of buildings but in terms of the scale and range of
colours required, this is the first time we have used
their SpectraSeraphic ™ range.
It’s the first time you have used this type of glazing on a
building façade?
Well, in this sort of way, it is. We certainly use spandrel
glass on lots of buildings. But in terms of the style and
the range of colours, this is the first time we’ve really
used Viridian’s range. We looked at about 25 different
options, probably. That final colour combination happens
to relate to the owners’ corporate colour scheme.
Salter properties are red and green, and they preferred
that and it saves putting a sign on the building.
Right:
A birds-eye view reveals the fully utilised
rooftop as opportunity won while the
SpectraSeraphic™ signals an office tower
of real difference.