Client: TUI
Type of works: supply of over 600m² of tensioned roller blinds to provide effective and efficient shading to a large atrium in this headquarters building.

The building was originally constructed around a courtyard in the 1960s, but with recent increases in staff, additional office space was necessary. This extra space was created by constructing an atrium across the courtyard.

In order to reduce heat gain and glare, solar shading installed horizontally at roof level was required. The additional challenge was that all the systems had to be fitted to the existing tubular steel roof supports and access was extremely difficult due to numerous obstructions below the atrium.

After a full site inspection a specification for a fully-tensioned roof blind system was proposed and agreed. This system holds the fabric under constant tension so the blinds can be stopped at any point along their travel.

As the blinds are fitted at high level, electrical operation was a pre-requisite. Each blind was fitted with a 240V AC motor with integral radio receiver to allow wireless operation from any position below. Astralux designed and installed bespoke brackets to allow safe installation to the tubular steel structure.