BIZA, Manchester Airport T1

Type of works: supply and installation of Quadroclad aluminium façade system, into a vertically suspended solution.

Hunter Douglas, who manufactures and supplies a range of ceiling, façade and sun control systems, has used its expertise in this field to dramatic effect at the new 22,000 sq ft flagship BIZA duty free store at Manchester Airport T1.

The retail outlet, which is part of the Alpha Group, promises to redefine the airport shopping experience by offering a stylish and contemporary environment that is aspirational and yet inclusive for consumers. The store’s design is central to this concept and features an amazing series of vertical ceiling panels that are suspended at differing heights to create a concertina like effect to the internal roof void. This baffle (rib) concept was the brainchild of designers HMKM London and was produced by developing Hunter Douglas’ Quadroclad aluminium honeycomb core façade system, into a vertically suspended solution.

The Baffles vary in size between 130mm and 1.5m deep, and the scheme includes curved sections in plan and dramatic S-shaped transition pieces to flow between high and low levels.

The finished ceiling system is yet another example of how versatile the Hunter Douglas product offer can be in the hands of an award winning design team.