LOCATION
client
contract value
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programme
The works involved a full curtain wall refurbishment to a large business unit in Luton, preparing the building for its new tenant, TUI. The existing system dated back to the 1980s and could not be fully identified, which created technical uncertainty around replacement components and long-term performance. The client required a practical route to remediate the façade while retaining the original framing.
Initial site conditions included ageing glazing, historic detailing, and a system with no accessible technical record. Weather created further pressure, with rain, ice, and snow affecting progress through November. Weekly coordination and phased working by elevation helped maintain control across the programme.
Early engagement between the contractor, designer, and Square One shaped a clear technical direction. A full sample and mock-up stage was completed before works began, followed by pre-construction water testing to benchmark performance. This ensured the retained framing could support the new system components.
The project was sequenced by elevation to align with scaffold movements. Material choices were driven by a mix of experience and sample validation, ensuring compatibility with the existing frames. Access was delivered using a combination of scaffold and MEWPs. A joint QA process between the contractor and client governed inspections, documentation, and sign-off.
Explain how the team planned, prepared and coordinated the works.
Describe any design considerations, sequencing, safety requirements or challenges overcom
• Sample and mock-up installation
• Water testing to validate both the mock-up and the main works
• Technical design assistance and problem solving
• Material supply and fabrication
• Strip-out of existing components
• Installation of new curtain wall system elements
• Welfare provision
• Weekly reporting to track progress and sequencing
• Health and safety compliance across the package
• Waste removal and site skips
• Full quality assurance and final handover
The curtain wall was fully refurbished using new components including glazing, accessories, tapes, seals, pressure plates, cappings, and perimeter silicone. The building achieved the required U-value for its operational use. External appearance was significantly improved, and the system is now watertight and performing as intended. The project delivered strong compliance outcomes with clear technical justification and a controlled installation process.
This project benefitted from close coordination across contractors.
