| Project | Kirkstall Forge |
| Location | Leeds |
| Sector | Offices |
| Project Value | £40 Million |
| Architect | Cooper Cromar |
| Main Contractor | Wates Construction |
| Sub-Contractor | Glassolutions Contracting |
| CAB member | Saint-Gobain (United Kingdom) |
| System | Wicona Wictec 50SG Aluminium Curtain Walling System with a bronze anodized coating |
Kirkstall Forge is a new development and part of a complete overhaul of a former industrial site on the outskirts of Leeds. The developer is looking to transform the location into a thriving mixed-use community that will include offices, homes, shops and restaurants in a picturesque riverside setting. By 2030 the completed 57 acre site will provide a contemporary urban village creating spaces for a new generation to live, work and explore.
The first part of the development was Number One Kirkstall Forge; 110,000sqft of Grade A office space.
The revered project was awarded Best Commercial Project at the RICS Yorkshire and Humber Awards 2018.
The Modernist Kirkstall Forge features a large glazed façade, built using Saint-Gobain Glass’ Cool-lite® Xtreme 70/33 II, triple silver coated glass. With a high light transmission of 70%, this glass maximises daylight and indoor comfort, ensuring the inside office space will be bright and pleasant. Its low solar factor and excellent U-value mean Cool-lite® Xtreme 70/33 II is also energy efficient, as it reduces the need for air conditioning and heating, meaning a reduced overall carbon footprint.
Glassolutions Contracting, part of the Saint-Gobain Group, completed the installation of the façade using an architectural aluminium solution by Wicona. The Wictec 50SG aluminium curtain walling system was used in conjunction with Cool-lite® Xtreme 70/33 II to help realise the aim of the building project to achieve a BREEAM Outstanding score.