UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM, BIRMINGHAM UK
BACKGROUND
The University of Birmingham is a world top 100 public research university located in Edgbaston. The University required a refit of their entrance hall and foyer for the main entrance and had strict tender criteria, with requirements for superior performance ratings for fire and acoustics.
BRIEF
Working closely with main contractor Bouygues UK, MIDDAS conceptualised a bespoke solution for the foyer and main entrance hall that would easily meet the strict tender criteria. The glazed panels and doors would be integrated into third party walls, so the team also needed to coordinate with the incumbent door automation and access control company to ensure all components were engineered to the correct specifications.
SOLUTION
MIDDAS supplied M100 full height fire rated glazed panels and associated framework, with integrated fire rated door sets. In-built connections that did not require any additional site preparation or modifications to function properly were incorporated alongside the required fail-safe protection and finger guards. The offsite manufacture and clean lines provided by the MIDDAS flush fitting solution meant the University realised some additional benefits. Building access for students and staff was required during the refit, and with its pre-formed opening, the MIDDAS panel construction lent itself to quick on-site assembly and minimal disruption during installation. The new bi-panel glazed system enclosed the steel framework, so students could no longer leave items on the glazing rail.
“The bespoke MIDDAS solution added many benefits over the proposed solution, most importantly because it was manufactured off site and delivered as a complete modular ‘ready-to-install’ solution. This was an important factor in meeting our financial targets for the project and was received very well by the University, who also wanted a quick turnaround.“
