Case Studies – UCLan Student Centre - University of Central Lancashire
The new landmark Student Centre at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), part of a £60 million redevelopment scheme, has become part of the thriving heart of the Preston Campus since opening in Autumn 2021. Designed by award-winning architects, Hawkins/Brown, the Student Centre along with a new University Square will create a stunning gateway between the University and the City Centre.
The Brief
To create a light, spacious, vibrant Student Centre housing a reception area, coffee shop, informal learning spaces, a student well-being support centre and a rooftop garden, which are accessible to everyone.
The Solution
To create the wow factor, the Student Centre boasts an impressive facetted glass facade constructed and installed by Edinburgh based façade specialists Charles Henshaw & Sons. The facade, which is the largest, single-span, continuous curtain walling screen in Europe embraces the new Square offering shade and shelter with over 150 glass units each in excess of 7m2 and weighing over 500kg.
As the Student Centre is accessible to the general public, as well as students and staff, 4 x Record K 32 automatic revolving doors have been installed on the two main entrances to ensure the safe and efficient flow of large numbers of people at any one time. With three large, spacious compartments each K32 revolving door can handle up to 2,500 people per hour whilst preventing the migration of draft, to create an ambient temperature and help reduce energy costs.
3 x record DFA 127 automatic swing doors have also been fitted next to the revolving doors (2 double doors on the South Elevation and 1 single door on the North Elevation) to provide a wider opening when required for wheelchair users, people with limited mobility, and deliveries of large bulky images.
A further DFA 127 double swing door, which is silent in operation, has been installed at the entrance to the rooftop garden terrace, providing students, staff and visitors with access to the impressive views of the Preston Skyline.
Henshaw commented "record's Sales Team was outstanding on this project, setting the architect's mind at ease by offering the necessary solutions to meet their client’s aspirations. record’s Design Team produced accurate drawings promptly, even after amendments were made to the original plan."
Henshaw added "To ensure the installation of all eight automatic doors went smoothly, Record's installation team and project manager worked collaboratively with our site manager and other trades to understand our requirements and to overcome any challenges quickly and professionally."
