Context

CS supplied modular RSV-5700 high-performance vertical blade louvres to provide protection from the rain over an area of approximately 300m2 at One Bank Street, an iconic addition to Canary Wharf, London.

Standing tall amidst the modern high-rise office edifices in the heart of London’s Docklands, the 27-storey building was designed by the world-renowned architectural firm, Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF). It not only offers a stunning vista of the city but also symbolises a fusion of modern architectural aesthetics and sustainability, having achieved a BREEAM rating of ‘Outstanding’. Its strategic location, bounded by The Thames on two sides, coupled with its two lobbies, trading floors, and ground-level retail, make it a landmark building.

Challenge

One of the project’s challenges was integrating high-performance rain defence louvres to ensure efficient ventilation while providing excellent protection against rain. To seamlessly merge with the aesthetics of the building, a vertical blade orientation model was essential. The architects at KPF and the façade contractors from the Lindner Group were looking for a solution that would not only address the functional challenges but also resonate with the design essence of the building.

Solution

Construction Specialties (CS) recommended the installation of its modular RSV-5700 vertical blade louvres. This model has been tested to EN 13030 by an independent third party and is rated as Class A 3 up to 3.5m/s, providing good airflow performance and excellent rain ingress protection.

The louvres, sitting underneath a deep overhang at the ground level of the West and South elevations, were powder-coated to RAL 9000, ensuring they matched the glazing façade elements of the building.

They were fabricated to custom sizes, with a perimeter frame designed for easy integration into the glazing framework, and were fitted with bird guards.

In total, CS supplied 38 modules – many of which were quite large, at around 10m2 – with an overall installation area of approximately 300m2.

Outcome

CS’s specialised product range ensured that One Bank Street not only met its functional requirements but did so with aesthetic precision.

This collaboration with KPF architects and Lindner Group highlights CS’ ability to blend functionality with design.