The Sawston Unity Campus is a cutting-edge laboratory and office space encompassing 260,000 square feet within an 11.5-acre urban innovation district. Situated amidst the picturesque Cambridgeshire countryside, approximately 8 miles south of Cambridge, the campus serves as a dynamic hub for life science and technology innovation. Morgan Sindall was the main contractor for the project, with Vertec Roofing & Cladding overseeing the installation of the cladding. Proteus Facades was the primary manufacturer, supplying the facades that has defined the distinctive architectural landscape of the campus.

The primary products used in the Sawston Unity Campus project were Proteus HR panels in a 1.5mm aluminium finish, manufactured in sizes up to 3.9 meters. These panels were enhanced with extruded aluminium fins featuring a Tiger Drylac PPC finish, replicating the aesthetic of bronze Anolok 545 and 543. The choice of Proteus HR cladding was driven by several key considerations, including the ability to powder coat the panels to emulate anodised finishes closely, meeting the project’s aesthetic requirements while adhering to budget constraints.

The decision to use a powder coated finish rather than traditional anodisation was pivotal in achieving a sophisticated and modern architectural look. Additionally, the expertise of Proteus in fabricating fins was a significant advantage. The architectural fins not only contributed to the building’s visual appeal but also helped balance daylight and prevent overheating, aligning with the vision of Nicholas Hare Architects.

The installation of the Proteus HR system and architectural fins was carried out by Vertec Roofing and Cladding, showcasing a systematic and strategic approach. The process involved a hook fixing method to secure the panels to the Proteus HR system. Continuous channels were affixed to vertical studs within the steel framing system, ensuring structural stability and durability.

A key feature of the installation was the placement of mullion support rails, which allowed the vertical fins to connect directly to the mullions. This design reduced the number of support rails and brackets needed, minimising thermal bridging across the facade brackets. The flexible and customisable arrangement of panels, independent of the vertical studs, facilitated a versatile panel placement, meeting specific design considerations.

The central location of the project required careful logistical planning to avoid disruptions. Effective communication and coordination ensured that deliveries were timed and booked in advance, allowing for smooth installation without access difficulties or significant disruption to the working environment.

The project was completed on time, within budget, and to the client’s satisfaction. The collaboration between Proteus Facades and Vertec was crucial to this success. Vertec’s comprehensive product training at Proteus Facades’ offices ensured a high level of proficiency in the installation process, contributing to the project’s efficiency and positive outcomes.

The Proteus HR solid and perforated copper cladding panels, specified by WilkinsonEyre in Aurubis Nordic Brown Light, embellish both the building and its natural surroundings. The warm, mellow hues of the copper patina on the Proteus panels were chosen to complement the decorative flint details on the adjacent school chapel elevation, blending and integrating the new and the old

Former pupil Sir James Dyson enabled the project with an £18.75m donation, which now carries his name, The Dyson STEAM Building. The multi-disciplinary hub takes a fresh approach by allowing art and science to be taught side-by-side.

WilkinsonEyre’s design integrates a modern architectural aesthetic with simple beauty and low energy systems. The main contractor on The Dyson STEAM Building was Kier Construction, with Norwich-based Drayton Windows installing the façade elements, including the Proteus HR panels.

Overall, the subtle use of pre-oxidised Aurubis Nordic Brown Light Proteus HR solid and perforated pre-oxidised copper panels and full-height glass portrays a sense of openness, both within the building and when standing in the surrounding landscape. Clever detailing allows the seamless transition between the copper, glass and steel primary elements, while achieving a highly thermally efficient façade.

A fluid approach to the design sees some of the Proteus HR cladding panels set back into the footprint of the building to accommodate landscaped open areas. These are used for outside teaching, where research shows that being close to nature improves academic outcomes for pupils. Integrated planting in these spaces further blurs the boundaries between the outside and in.

Proteus HR is an integrated modular rainscreen cladding system that offers a flat façade with recessed joints. It is available in a wide range of materials and finishes, including aluminium, zinc, stainless steel, copper alloys and various other options, such as pre-oxidised, like that used for The Dyson STEAM Building.

The beautiful pre-oxidised appearance at the Dyson building is one that would naturally develop over time as the copper is exposed to the natural elements. Specifying Proteus HR in Aurubis Nordic Brown Light Copper means that a base oxidation is present from the start,

Completed in the summer of 2022, ready for the new September term, the centre for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) facility provides a state-of-the-art structure at the heart of the school campus. The Dyson STEAM Building is a centre of excellence at this public school in Holt, which is one of the top thirty International Baccalaureate schools in England.

An inviting internal courtyard doubles up as circulation space, featuring an arts hub, seating area, IT point and facilities, further reinforcing the integration of art, design, and science.

Delivered with architectural clarity at its core, this exemplar educational building, which makes full use of pre-oxidised Proteus HR panels, looks set to achieve its goal of inspiring future generations of scientists, technologists, engineers, artists and mathematicians.

The new £15m ‘mock hospital’ at Nottingham Trent University’s Clifton Campus will help train healthcare professionals in a realistic hospital setting, including hospital wards, consultation and counselling rooms, and even lifelike patient manikins to give students the experience of working with a variety of injuries.

Pick Everard architects specified Proteus HR 1.0m Coil Pre Anodised Aluminium for the entire external element of the new Heath and Allied Professions Centre. The cladding panels were supplied in a mix of Bronze B40 Satin and Bronze B40 Brushed finishes.

The shade variation across the façade is created by the Satin and Brush effects on the base metal being applied before the anodising, creating a sublime effect that adds interest and visual appeal.  The subtle bronze hues also embellish the natural surroundings of the building, whilst the semi reflective Satin finish adds further intrigue – when used for the soffits it has the effect of visually elongating the large vertically framed glazing elements upwards and outwards at night, accentuating the futuristic feel of the space.

Architects at Pick Everard had originally envisaged coloured stainless steel, however following presentation of a range of budgetary options by Proteus, it was decided that an anodised finish would offer a similar type of textural change across the elevation. At the same time, the coil pre anodised aluminium still achieves the life expectancy required and with minimal facility management requirements.

As part of the complete façade solution from Proteus, the cladding wraps into the soffits on the front of the main building using the same panel system, with the addition of a flashing cill in identical bronze finish. This integrated approach extends to the other elevations, including Proteus manufactured jamb, head and cills flashings for pocket windows in matching coil pre anodised aluminium bronze.

This attention to detail from the architectural team, delivered by Proteus through an integrated facade, creates a homogenous palette of materiality, and was one of the reasons why the project was shortlisted in the 2022 Façade Awards for Best use of a Rainscreen System using Aluminium.

Proteus HR is an integrated, lightweight, high strength modular rainscreen cladding system with a honeycomb core that offers an optically flat panel. It is available in a wide range of materials and finishes, including aluminium, zinc, stainless steel, copper alloys and various other options. The Proteus HR system meets the requirements of BS476: Parts 6 and 7, therefore achieving a Class 0 rating as classified by building regulations.

Ilkeston-based Advanced Roofing detailed and installed the façade at Nottingham Trent University and worked closely with Proteus throughout the project.

Pick Everard National Design Director, David Shaw, said: “The architecture of the new development has been designed for maximum visual impact on arrival to the campus. We wanted to ensure this new addition to an evolving campus would be complimentary but also distinctive both externally and internally.”

Nottingham Trent University’s new Heath and Allied Professions Centre was procured by main contractor Henry Brothers Midlands through the Major Works Framework and designed by Pick Everard Architects.

Along with creating a world class teaching space it provides a welcoming gateway building to the campus, and in the words of the architects ‘the external façade treatment and quality materials provide aesthetic interest’.

To learn more about our Proteus HR range please visit our product page

Innovative use of Corten steel rainscreen cladding panels and architectural fins from Proteus Facades has helped to create a powerful aesthetic on the University of Sheffield’s new state-of-the-art energy facility.

The new Energy Centre Transformer Building, created by HLM Architects and built by main contractor Vital Energi, forms a key part of the University’s long-term masterplan.

It works as an onsite energy centre that provides a resilient and uninterrupted supply of both heat and power to all buildings within the University of Sheffield’s Western Bank Campus.

According to HLM, the main concept behind the building’s design is heavily influenced by the mechanical and electrical equipment that the building houses. This is one of the reasons why the architects specified Corten steel rainscreen cladding panels and fins from Proteus Facades for use on the development.

Proteus HR is a modular rainscreen system that offers a smooth façade with recessed joints. The panels have a lightweight aluminium honeycomb core structurally bonded between two thin gauges of metal. The lightweight nature of this rainscreen system minimises weight loadings on the underlying structure whilst achieving strength and rigidity.

The solid Corten Proteus HR cladding panels supplied by Proteus used on the Transformer Building feature in vertical and horizontal sections of the façade, while the fins wrap vertically over the building. Together they create a striking façade aesthetic somewhat similar to the external make-up of a power-plant transformer. Simultaneously, the reddish brown finish of the panels contrasts against the lighter finish of the building’s pillars whilst complementing the surrounding structures.

The panels, installed by Axis Envelope, are fixed onto a unique system of aluminium carriers and ancillary components, which were designed and manufactured by Proteus Facades.

Masking the building’s concrete structure and fitted behind the Corten fins is bespoke 3.0mm Natural Anodised lightweight Proteus SC Mesh panels, creating an awe inspiring aesthetic, while allowing air flow into the mechanical equipment

Proteus Facades’ innovative rainscreen cladding panels utilise an extensive range of materials such as Aluminium, Copper, Bronze, Brass, Stainless Steel, Zinc and Porcelain Ceramic.

Each system is manufactured to internationally recognised quality standards, using the highest quality materials, in accordance with its BSI ISO accredited Business Management System for Quality, Environmental and Health & Safety.

Nottingham Trent University’s (NTU) new centre for enterprise and innovation has become the latest higher education facility in the UK to feature state-of-the-art cladding panels from Proteus Facades.

With higher education providers realising that the design, amenities and external aesthetics of campus buildings are just as important as the courses and educational services on offer to students, specifiers are making more use of alternatives to traditional bricks and mortar.

It is one of the reasons why architects specified contemporary mirror finish and mesh cladding from Proteus Facades for the state-of-the-art new £9 million Dryden Enterprise Centre (DEC) at NTU.

Designed by architects Evans Vettori and constructed by the main contractor Henry Brothers, the DEC provides staff, students, graduates and external businesses with increased access to a range of high-class facilities, as well as support, mentoring, networking and training services.

The new building has been developed alongside the existing Dryden Centre, a cube-like structure built on campus in 1976 that has undergone extensive refurbishment as part of the development. The new extension connects to the north end of the refurbished structure, both of which have been designed to accommodate University start-ups and spin-outs and attract external businesses looking for high-quality workspaces and support.

Proteus Facades manufactured bespoke Proteus SC Aluminium 3mm Aluminium PPC Carina expanded mesh and Proteus HR 0.8mm Rimex Super Mirror 316 Stainless Steel rainscreen soffit panels for the refurbished and new structures respectively.

Proteus SC is an engineered panel system that is offered in either solid, perforated or mesh panel formats. By utilising an extensive range of metals, colours, textures and forms it can add another dimension to any façade cladding project. The system can be manufactured between 1mm and 5mm in thickness and an acoustic insulation layer encapsulated within the panel.

The Proteus SC panels at the DEC were specified with a PPC Pearl Beige (RAL 1035) finish and feature on the external façade of the 1970’s cube-like structure. Compartmentalising the brick-work at eye-level, the mesh cladding features in vertical sections reaching from the ground to the upper floors and then wrap around the entirety of the top level. The panels were chosen to soften the block-like appearance of the refurbished structure and complement the elegant pearl, brick and glazed sections on the façade of the new development.

Proteus HR soffit panels in Rimex Super mirror finish feature on the underside of four of the first and third floor cantilevers, reaching over the main entrance and upper terraces. The mirrored cladding from Proteus was specified due to its honeycomb core creating an optically flat panel that portrays a high quality surface aesthetic. The finish also has the effect of reflecting artificial lighting from within the building and natural light from outside onto the floors below. It achieves what the architects set out to do and that is illuminate what may have otherwise been a deeply shaded area of the building.

Proteus HR was also specified because it is a lightweight, strong and versatile cladding panel. The integrated modular rainscreen panels feature an aluminium honeycomb core, structurally bonded between two thin gauges of lightweight metal skin for optimum rigidity.

Installed by Elhance Limited, both the Proteus SC and HR panels at the DEC are secured in place using a bespoke aluminium fixing system, also manufactured by Proteus Facades. It can be installed on to any type of wall construction and allows the panels to be secured in place with no visible fixings, creating a sheer, uninterrupted aesthetic.

The £9m Dryden Enterprise Centre (DEC) is set over four floors utilising the latest technology and modern facilities including open-plan desk areas, private offices, meeting rooms, event space and communal areas to encourage networking.

Proteus Facades’ innovative rainscreen cladding panels utilise an extensive range of materials such as Aluminium, Copper, Bronze, Brass, Stainless Steel, Zinc and Porcelain Ceramic. Each system is manufactured to internationally recognised quality standards, using the highest quality materials, in accordance with its BSI ISO accredited Business Management System for Quality, Environmental and Health & Safety.

Proteus HR and Proteus SC are available in an extensive range of materials and finishes. For further information about the innovative rainscreen cladding system or to view more inspirational projects from Proteus Facades, visit Our Projects or call: 0151 545 5075.

Based within the grounds of the Upper Mountjoy Campus, the new Mathematical Sciences and Computer Science building has been developed to create synergy between the two departments, which have been earmarked for significant growth within the Durham University Strategy – 2017-2027.

The building features state-of-the-art teaching facilities and office space, including a specialist IT Lab with a designated server room, a 120-seat tiered lecture theatre and tutorial rooms. While a café and breakout spaces, as well as four enclosed courtyards make up the communal areas.

Creating a bright space for students, staff and visitors to meet and relax, Proteus Facades manufactured striking 2.0mm Aluminium Proteus IP interlocking planks with a PPC Traffic White Matte (RAL 9016) finish for use on the façades of the four internal courtyards.

GSS Architecture chose the Proteus IP aluminium PPC in Traffic White because it accentuates and reflects natural light creating an enhanced ambience in the teaching spaces that face onto the courtyards, whilst complementing the glass curtain walling system.

A combination that together creates a striking minimalistic appearance that lifts the aesthetics of each courtyard and creates light filled spaces for students and staff to enjoy.

The Proteus IP panels, installed by Longworth Building Services, were fixed in a band like design that reflects the aesthetics of the external façade facing onto the campus. In order to maintain this ‘banding’ effect, the planks continue behind the glass curtain-walling systems, which required exacting tolerances.

Proteus Facades also manufactured 3.0mm Aluminium large format Proteus SC soffit panels with a PPC Interpon D1036 RAL 7016 Matt Finish, for installation above the ground floor, first and second perimeter stepped soffits.

Proteus SC is an engineered panel system that is offered in either solid, perforated or mesh panel formats. By utilising an extensive range of metals, colours, textures and forms it can add another dimension to any façade cladding project. The system can be manufactured between 1mm and 5mm in thickness and an acoustic insulation layer encapsulated within the panel.

Specified with an A2 fire certification, which prevents the use of traditional subframe bonding methods, the soffit panels were manufactured with a bespoke stiffening system and fixed to achieve the required rating, as well as structural integrity and an optically flat surface.

Proteus Facades worked closely with Longworth Building Services to guide them on the most suitable material for use on the soffit panels that would achieve the desired aesthetics whilst meeting budgetary expectations. Aluminium was chosen as it provided a cost-effective solution and one that was available in optimum coil sizes that allowed fabrication of the 2m long soffit panels. The PPC Interpon D1036 RAL 7016 Matt Finish was specified to complement the band-like copper cladding on the building’s main façade.

Proteus and Longworth Building Services final element continued further across Campus, Proteus SC 3mm anodised mesh aluminium panels with a Bronze Anodised Anolok (545) finish were also specified for use around the bike storage and ancillary areas. Proteus again devised a bespoke method of fixing the mesh into the frame, so it maintained integrity and colour match of the anodising on both elements.

Developed by main contractor, Sir Robert McAlpine, the new Mathematical Sciences and Computer Science building at Durham University forms part of a masterplan to provide improved infrastructure and additional teaching and research space. The facility will create greater integration between students and staff. It will also enable the University to increase the number of undergraduates, postgraduate researchers and employees for the Mathematical Sciences and Computer Science departments over the next five years.

Proteus Facades’ innovative rainscreen cladding panels utilise an extensive range of materials such as Aluminium, Copper, Bronze, Brass, Stainless Steel, Zinc and Porcelain Ceramic. Each system is manufactured to internationally recognised quality standards, using the highest quality materials, in accordance with its BSI ISO accredited Business Management System for Quality, Environmental and Health & Safety.

To learn more about Proteus SC or any of our other products please click here

Combining tradition with modernity, Proteus HR TECU Classic Copper panels clad the entire exterior façade of a new extension on Newton Lodge, a historic building at Summer Fields Preparatory Boarding and Day School in Summertown.

Newton Lodge is one of the oldest structures on the 70-acre school site and was previously used as a boarding house for pupils. The addition of the new extension, alongside a complete redevelopment inside and out, has transformed the Lodge into the state-of-the-art ‘Summer Fields Pre-Prep School’ for children aged four to seven.

Proteus HR TECU Classic, a bright, shimmering, multi-tonal ochre-red copper cladding that will gradually fade over time to Verdigris green, was installed by J & PW Developments. The copper cladding wraps around the entire external façade of the extension, developed by main contractor Edgar Taylor.

Designer Oxford Architects specified the ‘homogonous’ copper rainscreen cladding – including pre-formed corner panels, window reveals, heads, sills and rooflines – to create a clean modern look. It is envisaged that this innovative approach will both contrast and complement the historical character of the original Victorian-built Newton Lodge and other buildings dotted throughout the school grounds.

Proteus HR is an integrated modular rainscreen panel system featuring an aluminium honeycomb core, structurally bonded between two thin gauges of lightweight metal skin. This creates a lightweight, strong and versatile cladding system, whilst the sheer, smooth aesthetic of the optically flat panels achieves pure architectural sightlines. The honeycomb core also helps optimise the gauge of copper skin, contributing to budget expectations, and creating a rigid, slimline cladding panel.

Inclusion of the Proteus HR slimline panels at Summer Fields contributed to overall energy efficiency by allowing incorporation of high levels of insulation within the underlying structure, whilst still maintaining the rear ventilated cavity. The copper cladding also provides Summer Fields with outstanding mechanical abrasion and weather and corrosion resistance properties as well as being maintenance free.

Proteus Facades fabricated the entire copper façade at its advanced manufacturing facility in Lancashire, including the copper pre-formed corner panels for installation on the window head and sills. These were instead of standard flashings to create crisp clean lines that reflect the classical geometry of the existing Victorian building.

These carefully considered design elements alongside the modern, structured façade and carefully retained heritage of the building are just some of the factors that led to the project receiving a Commendation in the Oxford Preservation Trust Awards. Judges commented that the building is a valuable asset to the school and the wider community by improving the streetscape substantially.

Summer Fields Pre-Prep school offers purpose-built education facilities for 80 pupils aged four to seven. Situated within the heart of the existing school site, the building includes modern, well equipped learning and library spaces as well as its own parking, gardens and playground, all within a secure, self-contained area.

Proteus offers one of the widest ranges of TECU copper and copper alloy cladding in the UK. This includes TECU Copper, TECU Bronze, TECU Brass, TECU Gold, TECU Zinc, a tin-plated copper that has all the advantages of copper whilst weathering from silver to subtle grey tones.

The materials are also available pre-patinated, which bypasses the gradual weathering process, so that the cladding panels take on the beautiful earth tones from the day the façade is installed.

Proteus HR is also available in aluminium, zinc, stainless steel and other materials. For further information about the innovative rainscreen cladding system or to view more inspirational projects from Proteus Facades, visit our projects page or call: 0151 545 5075.

Images supplied by Oxford Architects

This was certainly the case with the design and development of the Oxford High School for Girls’ Day School Trust’s (GDST) new sixth form and arts centre, which features innovative cladding from Proteus Facades.

Designed by Ellis Williams Architects and developed by Beard Construction, the brief for the new Ada Benson Building, named after the school’s first headmistress, an advocate for women’s education, was to create a space that encompasses quality architecture, reflects the legacy of its namesake and promotes educational excellence.

The facility, which has been described as an epitome of school design, features contemporary classrooms, a health and wellbeing centre, textiles atelier, art studios and a state-of-the-art auditorium.

Providing the exterior of the building with a lustre that matches the quality within, perforated cladding panels, manufactured by Proteus Facades from a 2mm Stainless Steel Proteus SC tray in a 240S silver brush polish finish, wrap around the entirety of the first floor.

Each panel features striking perforations in a bespoke, organic and geometric pattern that adds architectural interest to the façade; whilst ensuring it is in keeping with other buildings on the school campus and respectful of the adjacent Conservation Area and mature trees along the existing southern boundary.

The Proteus SC panels, installed by Deane Roofing & Cladding, are supported off a 125mm x 50mm mullion and helping hand brackets set off the primary structure to generate a small soffit lip around the entire building that wraps further to form soffits in the main entrance areas.

Proteus SC is an engineered panel system that is offered in either solid, perforated or mesh panel formats. By utilising an extensive range of metals, colours, textures and forms it can add another dimension to any façade cladding project. The system can be manufactured in materials from 1mm to 5mm in thickness. Acoustic insulation layers can be encapsulated within the panel for internal applications and Proteus Facades can also provide contrasting fabric inserts when the panels are perforated.

During a tour of the school prior to the official opening, staff were particularly impressed with the geometric shapes within the design, which are also reflected in the atrium through carefully planned décor and light that wells from the first floor. In fact, the headmaster himself commented on the eye-catching way the interior reacts with the external spaces, through the use of carefully placed windows and the clever design of the bespoke Proteus SC panels.

In addition to the modern teaching spaces, the new Ada Benson building also features a ground-floor atrium and café alongside a social hub and community space for hire. The external surroundings include a contemporary garden and new secure bike stalls, which are also clad in the perforated Proteus SC panels helping to carry the aesthetics of the façade further across the school grounds.  

For further information about Proteus SC or to view more inspirational rainscreen facades from Proteus Facades, visit: www.proteusfacades.com or call: 0151 545 5075.

The new Ainsworth Graduate Centre is a striking circular design yet one that sits harmoniously in a location steeped in history. The building resides on the site of the original Grade I listed campus designed by renowned architect Arne Jacobsen.

Built between 1960 and 1964, Jacobsen designed the college’s main campus in its entirety. Since Jacobsen’s death in 1971 additional buildings have been delivered by the Danish architect’s assistant, Knud Holscher, and Stirling Prize-winning RIBA past president Stephen Hodder. Architects Purcell designed the new Graduate Centre as a continuation of the second phase of Hodder’s development by following his typology as sensitively as possible.

Proteus HR TECU bronze cladding panels were specified for the cylindrical three-storey hub, which features a seminar room and common room, as a reference to Jacobsen’s use of the material on previous projects at the college, synchronising old with new.

Proteus HR is a modular rainscreen system that offers a smooth façade with recessed joints. The panels have a lightweight aluminium honeycomb core structurally bonded between two thin gauges of metal. The lightweight nature of this rainscreen system minimises weight loadings on the underlying structure whilst achieving strength and rigidity.

The panels are fixed onto a unique system of aluminium carriers and ancillary components, which were designed and manufactured by Proteus Facades. Proteus fabricated the structural element of the fixing system so that it physically curves around the building. Installers Norman & Underwood then secured the flat panels to create a faceted façade that, when viewed from afar gives the perception that it is curved around a tight radius.

Proteus Facades also fabricated three varieties of TECU bronze fins for external use on glazed sections. Shorter fins were secured with a modified vertical aluminium extrusion cloaked with TECU bronze and secured with stainless steel brackets. Each one is fixed off the curtain wall system, with the TECU bronze capping designed bespoke to achieve the maximum depth from the glazing line to create a more striking aesthetic.

Deeper, vertical TECU Bronze fins are secured to a bespoke structural frame up to 450mm off the cladding line, which compartmentalises the façade. The vertical fins frame the structural bay and are fixed off curtain walling, spigoted into the ground and bracketed at the head. The internal aluminium carcass was secured with structural brackets back to the curtain wall and plated at join positions with discrete fixings.

Horizontal beams on the top of the upper level were fabricated in a curve and fixed to a bespoke aluminium structure, then cloaked with the TECU Bronze material from Proteus. Norman & Underwood secured the beams with structural gusseted brackets fixed back to the primary structure. All three types of fins went through a double-marquette process, where principal and secondary designs were presented to the architects and client for review before manufacture.

As well as a reference to the original campus buildings, the bronze finish of the panels and fins was specified to contrast in tone and glossiness with stainless steel panels, also manufactured by Proteus Facades, which feature on existing and the newly developed student accommodation blocks adjacent to the centre.

In the early 1990s and 2000s Hodder added three accommodation blocks to the site, housing a total of 54 rooms. The facades on these buildings feature Proteus HR Stainless Steel cladding panels, manufactured by Proteus Façades several decades ago. This material was originally chosen as the smooth finish of the stainless steel stands out against the coarse finish of the concrete structure creating a textured facade.

Like the Graduate Centre, the newest student accommodation pavilions are a continuation of Hodder’s development, adding 78 large spacious en-suite rooms connected by glazed stairwells. The façades of the new buildings imitates those constructed by Hodder, and so Proteus Facades was appointed to fabricate exact replicas of the original Stainless Steel panels they manufactured some twenty years previous for the new development, whilst using more modern methods of construction.

The stainless steel panels sit inboard of the building’s concrete frame with a standard pattern of two panels adjacent to large rectangular windows on each of the rooms. The Proteus HR rainscreen panels were supplied pre-finished with a 240S brushed polished finish.

The aluminium carrier system used is fully adjustable on all axis, allowing exacting sightlines to be maintained across the façade. This enables the façade at St Catherine’s college to make the most of linear shadow lines between the Proteus HR panels and concrete structure.

What was once the Royal Mail Sorting Office on Barrack Road, has now been redeveloped into an iconic school featuring a reflective Proteus SC Perforated Stainless Steel façade.

After closing due to a fire in 2003, the building remained uninhabited for over a decade and fell into disrepair. Once described as an eyesore of the city, the structure has now been given a new lease of life as Northampton International Academy.

Helping to respond to a significant requirement for school places in the city, Architecture Initiative identified the old sorting office as the ideal space for the new state-of-the-art school.

Working closely with the local authority, the London-based architects redesigned the colossal, brutalist building, which was originally opened by Princess Diana on her first solo engagement in 1981, into an education hub filled with natural light.

The Proteus SC Perforated panels installed at Northampton International Academy cleverly mask the monolithic appearance of the original structure, whilst not completely hiding this brutalist piece of architecture. The mirror polished surface on the face of the panels reflects the skyline giving the impression that the building is less imposing.

Reducing the perforation sizes from the middle of the façade to the top and bottom edges, maximises translucency, whilst acting as brise soleil, providing shade from solar glare and preventing over-heating to the teaching spaces.

The single skin perforated panels were manufactured from a sheet of 2mm Stainless Steel, which offers the ideal combination of high strength and a modern, progressive aesthetic. The material also holds excellent corrosion resistant properties.

Each panel, installed by Deane Roofing & Cladding, is supported by the Proteus aluminium carrier system and ancillary components anchored to a cantilever steel frame from the underlying masonry structure. These allowed the panels to be hooked-on from behind, accentuating the sheer, smooth façade interrupted only by the perforated design.

Northamptonshire is known for its history of crafting leather goods, particularly the art of traditional shoemaking. So taking the design process one step further, Proteus Facades worked closely with Architecture Initiative to create perforations that acknowledge this heritage; with the holes on each panel positioned to imitate those found on a Northampton-made brogue-style shoe.

In addition, careful placement of the small and large perforations allows natural light to pass through and flood the interior of the school, whilst the metal façade is rendered virtually invisible from the inside. This innovative approach is just one of the reasons Northampton International Academy was named one of the “boldest” buildings of 2019 by the Royal Institute of British Architects.

With a floor area of 22,250m² and generous high ceilings, the academy, run by the EMLC Academy Trust, accommodates over 2,220 pupils, including 420 primary, 1,500 secondary and 300 sixth formers.

The front of the school houses two illuminated signage boxes that indicate separate entrances for primary and secondary pupils, which perfectly complement the mirror polish of the Proteus SC panels.

Proteus SC is an engineered panel system that is available in either solid, perforated or expanded mesh formats, and in an extensive range of metals, colours, textures and forms. The system is available between 1mm and 5mm in thickness and can be specified with an acoustic insulation layer encapsulated within the panel. For internal applications Proteus Facades can also provide contrasting fabric inserts when the panels are perforated.

Delivered by Northamptonshire County Council with funding from the Education and Skills Funding Agency and developed by Contractor, Vinci Construction, Northampton International Academy is one of the largest education conversion projects in the country.

For further information about Proteus SC or to view more inspirational rainscreen facades from Proteus Facades, click here or call: 0151 545 5075.