ProjectsSto Helps Create Innovative Design For Icon
Outlet At The O2
An integrated package of external wall insulation and render from
Sto has been used to insulate an impressive architectural design
featured on a major new London shopping mall. The Sto materials
were chosen to insulate and finish the ‘wave-themed’ wall and
ceiling design which now forms the centrepiece of ICON Outlet at the
world-famous The O2.
“We needed to specify a high-quality insulation system that
could provide the required degree of thermal insulation, and still
accommodate the complex surfaces and angles of the ‘wave’ design
which covers large parts of the walls and ceiling,” explains Nathmya
Saffarini of CallisonRTKL architects. “We were looking to create a
vibrant atmosphere and use state-of-the-art materials throughout,
so it was important that the insulation solution we chose was
compatible with those requirements.”
“This was an unusual project as the shopping mall includes ‘indoor
streets’ interspersed with open spaces, and is roofed over,”
comments Matt Mooney of Novo Facades who installed the Sto
insulation solution. “The O2 sits on the bank of the Thames, so
the insulation and render finish had to be completed to external
standards to protect against the moisture-laden atmosphere and the
effects of temperature fluctuations which this location could cause.
“All the surfaces involved were curved rather than straight, and
we had to accommodate these while still working to very tight
tolerances over long distances. We liaised very closely with the
architect to create the final system, and with Sto who provided great
technical support throughout. The aluminium sub-construction of
the Sto insulation system provided all the flexibility we required and
helped us complete a very challenging project with great success.”The Sto system specified for the majority of the project was the
StoVentec R ventilated rainscreen cladding system. This features an
adjustable aluminium mounting grid which creates a cavity between
the facade and the render carrier board. This is partially filled
with mineral fibre insulation to provide highly effective thermal
insulation and fire protection, while still protecting the wall by
keeping it dry and allowing it to breathe. The StoVentec carrier
boards are very flexible, do not expand or contract with temperature
change, and butt jointed with no risk of cracking.StoTherm Mineral external wall insulation was applied to other areas
of the building. This system uses mineral fibre boards to provide
unrivalled thermal insulation and fire-resistance. Both Sto systems
were then finished with StoSilco K, a high-performance silicone
resin render which provides excellent water repellence. StoSilco
K is an ideal facade finish for applications such as this where the
finish required is visually attractive, whilst also providing protection
against weathering and damp.
http://www.sto.co.uk