Daiwa banks on Armstrong's metal Ceilings

Work is drawing to a close on the installation of more than 5,000m² of Armstrong metal Ceilings as part of the refurbishment of a listed London gem.

Armstrong's micro-perforated Microlook 8 metal tiles with acoustic fleece are being suspended from a steel-based Microline grid.which combines an exposed sleeve for a clean and crisp visual with a practical fluted reveal for flexibility in partition fixing and relocation.

This is the first use in the UK of this system. It was the system's functionality, as well as its aesthetics, cost-effectiveness and availability that appealed to main contractor IOR who was commissioned by the Japanese investment bank Daiwa Capital Markets for the refurbishment of its 27,300m² European HQ on King William Street, EC4.

The building's stunning listed neo classical façade and reception area required restoration and a more contemporary feel but the most demanding part of the project was the "open heart surgery" required in relation to the strip out and replacement of the M&E while the building was still "alive".

Two distinct operations are running in parallel as part of the surgery to provide a Category B fit-out of five floors and WCs on a consecutive sequence, requiring two moves of the dealing floor. Vital organ transplants involved the total removal of a VAV system and associated plant and replacing it with a FCU system. Further extractions include chillers, AHUs, ductwork LTHW, CHW, UPSs, LV switch panels, generator, boilers and pumps - a complex series of temporary connections to old plant and reconnections to new, while maintaining total integrity of the dealing comms room infrastructure.

IOR senior designer Lisa Stables said: "All these works are being carried out while the roof is re-weathered and the listed façade repaired and cleaned. Logistical skills and sensitivity combine to deliver a fascinating project and restoration of London's gems to its former glory. Daiwa's desire to minimise its carbon footprint during this process has also played a key part in the procurement strategy."

She added: "We specified the Armstrong metal systems because they are cost effective with a good lead time. They are being used almost everywhere as they are very functional but also give a clean and a crisp aesthetic."

The Armstrong metal systems were supplied by SIG Southwark and are being installed by Meronden who has had a team of 16 on site since summer 2012. The project is due for completion this summer.

ENDS