VIVIX by Formica Group exterior façade panels have been used for the external wall cladding of St James’s Hospital in Dublin.
Equator European Architects' Irish branch chose VIVIX panels in Redwood from the Woods range to create a contemporary look that fits in perfectly with the surroundings.
Gavin Veeran of Equator European Architects said: "St James's Hospital haemophilia and hepatology clinical research facility building was designed using a rectangular base form as a foundation. Rectangular modulations protrude at intervals with a focus on the off-shutter concrete entrance location. The overall concept was to marry in the rigid form with natural materials using stone and timber. However, the challenge of using timber was the maintenance and durability of the material. We therefore chose VIVIX panels as they not only exceeded our aesthetics and performance specifications; the maintenance costs have significantly been reduced for the end user.”
As well as being used to clad an entire building, VIVIX panels provide the opportunity to accentuate elements and features of the building design itself, creating a statement or a building identity. The architects chose VIVIX in Redwood, a rich woodgrain décor.
“We chose this particular design to create a contrast between the natural stone cladding that dominated the building and the cherry wood toned laminate panels," said Veeran.
"The woodgrain decor complements the stone we have used and manages to soften the façade at the same time, achieving our design objective.”
With a range of cladding solutions available, architects are increasingly choosing materials for exterior cladding that are not only decorative, but also practical, functional and can contribute to how the building as a whole performs. VIVIX panels are resistant to impact and abrasion, are weather resistant and can help to enhance the lifespan of a building. They include double-sided UV protection as standard.
Another key factor in the specification of the VIVIX panels was the product's sustainability credentials.
Veeran said: “Sustainability is becoming more of an influence in design and specification. We cannot ignore our impact on the living environment and have to start making changes that include becoming more responsible for our environment and focus our efforts on being resource efficient. As designers, we have many avenues in which to make a difference, from the inception, supply chain and all the way to the end user.”
