Sapa Building System supplies windows system to Newcastle’s student accommodation Verde

Sapa Building System, one of the largest suppliers of aluminium building systems in Europe, has supplied 770 windows to Newcastle’s latest student accommodation. Known as Verde, this is the fourth and final phase of the £250 million Downing Plaza development.  Sapa systems were also used on the first phase of the development.  

The new building comprising of two buildings that form a V-shape has been designed by award-winning architects SimpsonHaugh. This striking landmark sets a new standard for student accommodation in Newcastle.

The two structures are clad in green glazed terracotta tiles and the ground level is decorated with dark blue bricks.  

Commenting on the window installation SimpsonHaugh’s Project Architect, Jonathan Mallinson said: “We are pleased with the simple clean and crisp lines of the Sapa profiles available to us. The window format and arrangement was chosen to align with the horizontal emphasis of the overall façade language. The windows were top hung, so when open, seek to mimic the shingle profile of the terracotta tiles within the façade.”

Ian Bambridge, Estimating Manager at installer Dane Architectural Systems Ltd clarifies why this range was selected: “Of course, pleasing aesthetics were key but thermal and acoustic performance, security and especially the size of opening vents, in view of the fact that it is a student development, were especially important. 

He also said that Sapa DF 75 Si range was used because the windows were required to perform better than current Part L2A building regulations.

“The tilt and turn windows are locked out of turn and are purely used for ventilation for safety reasons. Sapa systems met the specification for the project and are cost effective, offering a higher performance window and real value for money,” he added.

Façade specialist, Dane Architectural Systems Ltd installed 770 Sapa Building System window units, constructed primarily from DF 75 Si TBT (Tilt/Turn) as well as fixed light DF 75 Si Casement.

Downing Construction Project Manager Vic Spain said: “Verde is a concrete-framed building and the installation was undertaken floor by floor from the bottom of the building upwards to accommodate the nature of concrete construction methods. The SFS wall went in first followed by the windows. We’ve worked with Dane Architectural Systems and used Sapa windows on other developments, so the window installation was a smooth process, taking just 20 weeks to complete.”

Sapa’s DF 75mm Si windows offer advanced polyamide thermal break technology that is capable of high thermal performance.  Part of Sapa’s Secured by Design range, DF 75mm Si windows are BS7950 accredited, with external beading requiring no additional components.