January 2019

Based on the site of George Stephenson’s
Locomotive yard, where the Rocket was built in
1829, the college incorporates both a new build
element and renovation of a Grade II Listed
building.
The existing roof on the Hawthorn building, which
had originally been fitted with basic linear slot
glazing, had fallen into disrepair and so it was
agreed that it should be replaced, while retaining as
much of the original timber structure as possible. It
was felt that maintaining the lines of the original
rooflights would enhance the internal space and
so the focus was on identifying a system that
would sit harmoniously with the roof aesthetic of
reclaimed slate and traditional lead work.
Gary Moss, Project Manager, Galliford Try, the
main contractor on site, commented:
“Refurbishing a listed building always creates
challenges, although the in-profile design and
slimline frames of the VELUX rooflights meant
that we were confident it would complement the
slate roof. We were impressed with how the
modular design of the rooflights resulted in a very
fast and efficient installation.”
The VELUX Ridgelight solution comprises two
rows of skylights linked together at the ridge,
“Refurbishing a listed building always creates
challenges, although the in-profile design and
slimline frames of the VELUX rooflights meant
that we were confident it would complement the
slate roof”
“Being installed inplane
to the 36°
reclaimed slate tiled
roof creates a more
elegant sightline”
creating a self-supporting structure. Factory
finished flashing allows for installations with a
pitch of 25 to 40°, making them suitable for a
wide range of roofs. Being installed in-plane to
the 36° reclaimed slate tiled roof creates a more
elegant sightline, whilst the slimline, anthracitecoloured
frames and ridge top pieces further
complement the grey slate and leadwork.
VELUX Northlights were also installed on the
pitched roof of the grade II listed refurbishment,
again to replicate as much as possible the glazing
system used on the original warehouse building.
Summary
Over the last few years it has become
increasingly clear that the design of schools,
colleges and universities has a profound effect on
the health, wellbeing and academic attainment of
students. An integral part of creating a wellbalanced,
inclusive learning and development
environment is ensuring high levels of daylight
and natural ventilation.
Our eBook, ‘10 reasons why prefabricated VELUX
Modular Skylights will transform your next
project’, provides further details on this. It
demonstrates how our modular system is quicker,
safer and easier to install as well as being
flexible, of premium quality, stunningly designed,
energy efficient and sustainable.
The eBook, which is available to download free
from our website, is an essential reference point
for installers, contractors, and building designers
that are working on the development of
commercial buildings.
Contact Velux
01592 778 225
www.velux.co.uk
@VELUXGBI
JANUARY 2019 TC 45