The installation of Hunter Douglas open cell ceiling system has recently been completed at the Phase 02 extension at the Excel London, exhibition and conference centre. The new phase incorporates a boulevard extension, where the original white panels have been continued before leading into a vibrant Red colour within the meeting areas. To give the scheme differing colour perspective, Architects Grimshaw also introduced different shades of Red and Silver within the conference facility areas. Externally, high performance open cell panels were used, in conjunction with an insect mesh to prevent birds being able to get into the void above.

Manufactured from lightweight and recyclable aluminium, Hunter Douglas open cell systems enable complete flexibility of design for angles and ceiling height changes while multiple finishes include a variety of colours and metallic options. They create a clean, monolithic appearance and offer easy access to lighting, ventilation systems and sprinklers with a versatile range of cell sizes, configurations and colours which combine to offer the specifier a wide range of options.

Ben Heath, Associate at Grimshaw, commented: “On the Excel London Phase 02 project the use of the Hunter Douglas open cell ceilings provided not only cost and program benefits, but a striking finish which worked with the dramatic interiors we were trying to create."