Number 20, part of the Howard De Walden Estate, has just been converted to a high spec orthopaedic clinic for the Fortius Group. Taking 12,243sqft on the ground and first floors; the new day surgery centre will open this autumn. The original timeworn windows were draughty and allowed high levels of noise ingress, neither of which are ideal for recovering patients. The project wasn’t without its challenges – the building is located in a conservation area, therefore the façade had to be retained which dates back to the Georgian era.
Architects Frank Shaw, redesigned the building to be fit for purpose in its new role as a clinic, as well as producing a building with the uppermost sustainability credentials to achieve BREEAM ‘Excellent’. This incorporated the introduction of secondary glazing to the front elevation of the building, to enhance the acoustic performance and thermal retention of the primary glazing.
The Series 41 side hung casement was specified, as it has a flush glass to frame detail which minimises the build-up of dust and dirt on ledges. This is a key consideration when specifying building elements for controlled environments where there is a requirement for infection control, such as recovery rooms and operating suites. All casements were glazed with sealed units housing integral blinds, which again help maintain a clean environment, additionally helping provide patient privacy from nearby neighbours.
The double glazed secondary glazing gave a selection of benefits; Warmer – the U-values have been greatly improved with the retrofitted secondary glazing and draughts eliminated. Quieter – the sealed unit combined with a cavity of at least 100mm from the primary window, provided a significant noise reduction from the busy street outside. Cleaner – with the flush frames and integral blinds housed in the glazing, germs and spread of infection will be kept at bay.
Working with Maquet, the management contractor who are part of the Getinge Group, Selectaglaze proceeded to install 30 units, some of which were 2200mm (h) x 820mm (w). Coordinating with the project manager, a tight fitting schedule was set, to keep the project on time in preparation for the opening of the centre in Autumn 2017. The installation was a triumph and the thermal and noise enhancements are already evident in the rooms.
Wishing a speedy recovery to patients at the new Fortius clinic in Marylebone. With the addition of secondary glazing, it is anticipated their stay will be quiet, comfortable, private and clean.
Royal Warrant Holder since 2004; Selectaglaze has 50 years’ experience designing, manufacturing and installing secondary glazing for all building types from hospitals to Listed museums with each unit bespoke to the individual needs of the client.
