The Custard Factory - Birmingham

A 600 yard walk from Birmingham’s famous Bullring shopping centre, the Custard Factory is yet another exciting addition to the city’s centre. 
A collection of early 20th-century industrial and office premises, spanning five acres, the brief was to convert the buildings into affordable, attractive workspaces and to create an environment in which small creative companies could interact and support each other. Key to this was the emphasis on public open space and interesting common areas, central to which was the courtyard and lake, flanked by cafés and shops and overlooked by many of the studios.

Designed by Glenn Howells Architects, the impressive redevelopment of the Custard Factory was delivered by main contractor Vinci. Specialist subcontractors DSM Flooring completed the various flooring requirements throughout the project, including the installation of the Howe Green access panels.

To provide access to essential building services located under the floor of the building cover panels were necessary. In the event of maintenance being required these could simply be lifted out to provide easy access. The Howe Green access panels were specified for the company’s widely held reputation as the leading supplier and producer of floor, ceiling and wall access covers.

As it was expected that the flooring would be subject to quite heavy foot traffic, as well as the frequent passage of trolleys, the access panels needed to be durable. It was decided that five of Howe Green’s 5000 Series aluminium panels would meet the requirements.

In keeping with the high aesthetic standards of the Custard Factory,DSMFlooring inlaid tiles within the covers, matching the existing white porcelain tiles of the floor for an uninterrupted and seamless finish.

Laid into the substrate flush with floor level, the panels provide excellent access to building services whilst not presenting a trip hazard. Tamper resistant features provide additional security, whilst double sealing at the edges makes for perfect hygiene.

All of Howe Green’s access panels are built to order at no extra time or cost to the client. Corrosion resistant thanks to their aluminium build, 5000 Series panels are available in a standard depth of 50mm. With inset lifting points, they are easily raised for access to building services with the use of supplied keys.

Popular with specifiers and installers, Howe Green’s reputation has seen its products used across the nation on some of the most demanding and high-spec projects. By using the company’s 5000 Series panels on the Custard Factory, the stylish precinct has ensured impeccable aesthetics and long lasting access to its vital building services.

 

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