A piece of modern art, built by GRP experts Design & Display Structures, has brought an intergalactic flavour to Leeds’ tallest building, nicknamed ‘The Dalek’.

Commissioned by Landmark Development Projects and St James Securities, artists Bryan and Laura Davies referenced a wide range of futuristic sources for their ‘Hello Friends’ sculpture. This included Stanley Kubrick’s iconic film 2001 – A Space Odyssey.

Since its completion it has inspired and intrigued local residents through a series of brightly lit images displayed within each of its nine sections. The images, based on science fiction classics, ‘communicate with passers-by about where mankind might be heading’.

Brief

At close to 18 metres high, the project required a specialist company to tackle the design and installation of such a tall feature within an enclosed atrium space, ensuring, at the same time, minimum disruption to the daily activities of the building’s tenants.

Open for public viewing in a bustling environment, the end product demanded a high quality yet extremely durable finish.

Solution

Design & Display Structures worked closely with artists Bryan and Laura Davies to deliver a comprehensive design solution that would accurately translate their creative vision to reality.

In total, nine red GRP pods were expertly crafted and assembled around a steel core to create the bold totem-like structure. To each pod, Design & Display Structures carefully installed light boxes and image posters.

Benefits

The company’s design abilities made it the perfect choice for this landmark piece. Modular off site manufacturing techniques and strategic erection methods meant minimal disruption to the building’s inhabitants.

As well as being ultra efficient, the company’s state of the art, eco-friendly manufacturing methods offered a sustainable solution that looks out for future generations.