Balustrading Solutions’ technical expertise and flexible approach have played their part in the successful £34m redevelopment of the Musgrove Hospital in Taunton.
The products specified not only needed to be durable and easy to clean, they also had to contribute to the sense of light and space that were integral to the building’s design ambitions.
Other considerations included making sure the balustrading on the upper concourse gave patients passing through on trolleys and beds privacy by obscuring the view from lower levels. Balustrading Solutions also ensured loading issues created by the use of glass on upper floors were taken into consideration and resolved.
Director, David Hough, said: “We work with architects during specification so that we can tailor our products to their specific requirements and factor in anything that affects how we install them. We can then produce production drawings to make sure everything we supply is fit for purpose, before manufacturing the product.”
The company’s Nylon, Stainless Steel and Structural Glass balustrading ranges were chosen to provide the hospital with robust but aesthetically-appealing hardware.
The Nylon range was used on two sets of stairs. It offers fracture resistance, high strength and thermal stability along with a smooth surface that is easy to clean and doesn’t attract dust. Its 4mm thick nylon sleeve comes in a range of colours and provides protection against chips and scratches. Balustrading Solutions’ Stainless Steel range was specified for a staircase where its sleek design, mechanical strength and resistance to chemical corrosion were relevant.
Finally, the Structural Glass range was specified for a structural glass ramp with glass manifestations. Structural Glass provides a balustrading solution that allows light access into the building’s open spaces, which fitted with the development’s design principles. The glass acts as the structural element, supporting the top rail without the need for separate uprights and panels.
