A mixed commercial and residential development in one of South London’s most fashionable districts – conceived as three bronze clad tubes rising to 20 storeys - features an integrated package of window and door systems from WICONA; including special extrusions produced to help express the architect’s design aspirations.
The Bronze in Wandsworth was originally designed by Rolfe Judd Architects for lead developer Work Space before the main residential element was bought by Strawberry Star, with the London Borough of Wandsworth also playing a key role. Henry Construction was subsequently chosen as the main contractor.
The glazing package included WICSLIDE 160 doors and WICTEC EL Evo unitised façade system, as well as WICLINE 75 and WICTEC 50 window units.
The WICLINE system offers both aesthetic flexibility and a high level of functionality, allowing the specifier to optimise energy performance, acoustic insulation and security. Like the other WICONA systems it is compatible with the WICTEC façade options, which extend from the classic stick assemblies to unitised and even structural glazed elevations. Compliant with the EN13830 standard for curtain walling, WICTEC is fully tested for weather resistance and is readily adaptable to almost any architectural style thanks to the availability of diverse profile types.
In total the development saw the installation of 70 WICSLIDE 160 sliding doorsets and some 250 high performance windows, as well as extensive areas of the WICTEC EL Evo façade system, helping to create a residential complex which exceeds the energy requirements of the Building Regulations while offering the occupants both comfort and amenity.
The Partner in Charge of the project for Rolfe Judd, Guy Harris, commented: “A key principle to the design concept was that the three bronze hoops which form the main arms of the structure should be read strongly, while the glazed infill should appear as minimal as possible. So that it is the Bronze hoops that are read rather than anything else, slender sight-lines were absolutely essential.
“The WICONA systems specified by the consultants delivering the project work very well with the crisp glass balconies and overall what has come forward in the finished façades has fully reflected our original concepts.”
A spokesperson for the delivery team added: “The scheme offers a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouse duplexes, each with their own recessed balcony. Full height glazing maximises views to King George’s Park and floods the apartments with natural light.
“A residential roof terrace sits above the four-storey office building and the retail element of the scheme is contained within a glass podium fronting a new public square. The square marks the entrance to Wandsworth Business Village and enhances the pedestrian link from Buckhold Road through to Wandsworth High Street.”
Referring to The Bronze as furthering Strawberry Star’s ‘Vision’ for volume housing vision and mixed-use developments, its Chairman Santhosh Gowda, said: “Wandsworth’s transformation means that residents of Bronze can benefit from great facilities and amenities all whilst living in a well-connected part of the city. I’d like to thank Wandsworth Council, our vendors, consultants and stakeholders for their support and cooperation in helping us reach this stage.”
In January 2021 The Bronze was named Best Residential Development for the London Region at the International Property Awards.
