News: 16th June 2011

Sto Breathes Life Into the Centre of Plymouth

The landmark Plymouth Life Centre will feature a stunning, bright yellow glass wall from Sto. The £46.5m project aims to become a national centre for excellence. Providing world class sporting and leisure facilities, the development is due for completion in 2011.

Architects Archial Group desired a striking, almost imposing visual effect on the dive tower. Something dramatic, that complimented the other textures and forms used throughout the project. Approaching Sto, the practice enthusiastically asked for alternative options in addition to world renowned render and external wall insulation. Sto suggested their new glass panel system, StoVerotec Facade.

The StoVerotec Facade rainscreen cladding system combines elegant beauty with unsurpassed levels of thermal performance and breathability. This particular system comprises a stainless steel and aluminium sub-construction carrying toughened glass panels. Other, equally beautiful decorative options were available, including natural stone finishes.

The Life Centre building is clearly visible from one of the main arterial routes into Plymouth. It will therefore be seen by thousands of people visiting the city every day. The idea behind the concept is to make a strong statement and passively promote the facility as people drive by. To achieve this, it is critical that the colours remain fresh and bright throughout the life of the building. The tinting process for the panels effectively enamels the colour to the glass, ensuring it will not fade over time.

The dominating feature wall will eventually incorporate over 500 bespoke glass panels. A striking yellow elevation, featuring bands of blue completes the facade. Overall, the area of glass panels exceeds 1,000m².

The development also makes extensive use of External Wall Insulation (EWI) systems from Sto. Archial Group were keen for one product manufacturer to supply systems for the entire building envelope for practical means. Sto made their life easy in this respect and is providing full, ongoing technical support throughout the entire project.

Sto has also been specified inside the centre. Once the facade is complete, Aspen Reed will be installing a StoSilent A-Tec Alu system within the pool area.

Swimming pools can be a nightmare for acoustics. The highly reflective surface of the water and high humidity pose a significant acoustic challenge. StoSilent A-Tec Alu offers excellent acoustic performance in high humidity areas. Rather than being suspended from the roof, the system will be wall mounted using the EP SW150 wall lining system. The system will acoustically enhance a surface area of approximately 1000m². This solution using a Sto system was designed by the Archial Group.

For further detailed information on all Sto products and systems, please contact your local Technical Consultant.