Client: Gatwick Airport
Type of works: installed Crystal balustrade.
Sapphire Balustrades Crystal system was chosen for stunning aesthetic appeal as part of the multi-million pound refurbishment of Gatwick Airports North Terminal. Designed for safety and style, the stainless steel and frameless, structural glass balustrades were manufactured and installed by Sapphire for staircases, along with the Jasper system to ramps and walkways, and on linkspans between the car park and the terminal building.
Toughened laminated glass in Sapphires Crystal frameless glass system was specified to enhance safety and loading requirements in the airports staircases. Each panel is manufactured from two sheets of glass with an interlayer of PolyVinyl Butyrall for strength and safety even if the glass fractures.
Balustrades on walkways and trolley ramps were designed with stainless steel handrails and power coated flat balusters from the Jasper range. Here again laminate glass was used to enhance the safety. The elegant flat balusters were styled and manufactured to complement existing airport steelwork. With each baluster being a custom profile, Jasper provides plenty of creative scope for distinctive contemporary designs, whilst ensuring a slim structure which looks sleek and modern.
The successful installation at Gatwick Airport is a clear demonstration of Sapphires unique approach to style, service and support, says Marketing Manager, Nick Haughton. As well as having one of the most comprehensive product ranges available, Sapphire Balustrades prides itself on providing unrivalled support, he says. We work closely with architects, designers and building professionals to deliver end to end project assistance, from design resources such as technical downloads, product application guidance, and NBS specifications, to professional project management through the manufacturing, logistics and installation stages.
As a further service for architects and designers, Sapphire has developed SES - Structural Evaluation System - a unique tool for assessing the structural performance of proposed balustrade designs, fixings, and associated metalwork and glazing. Nick Haughton says clients should find this data invaluable for securing Building Control approval. He concludes: SES is just another example of Sapphires commitment to ensuring that each project, from balconies for residential apartments to balustrades in a major airport like Gatwick, runs smoothly and meets all aesthetic, functional and legislative requirements.
View Handrails and balustrades: Crystal Product Entry