Role: Architects & Structural Design Consultants / Project Managers

Client: United Estates

The project was constructed on a site having an approximate footprint of 1,050 square metres and located on the boundary between Qormi and Mriehel. The five-storey office block and its underlying four-storey carpark was designed as a reinforced concrete frame structure, which is dressed in a combination of Alucobond® cladding and curtain walling.

The cladding used is a non-combustible aluminium composite panel which is mounted onto a system of rails as shown in the figure. The rails create a gap between the cladding panel and the structure of the building which not only reduces heat gains from solar radiation, but also allows for services such as rainwater pipework to be concealed behind the cladding panels. The flexile nature of the panels allowed for the contours of the curved balconies to be followed.

At the centre of the development is an internal glazed atrium rising from level 0 up to level 5 which plays a dual function. Firstly, it allows natural light to penetrate into the open plan large offices. Secondly, the visual link between the offices at different levels creates a pleasant environment for employees and reinforces the community feel within the building.