VERDIGRIS,
BRISTOL

Nestled in a private courtyard within the Old Market Quarters, Verdigris’ vibrant exterior stands out on the Bristol City Centre Skyline. The 5-storey apartment complex is comprised of intricate patina copper standing seam cladding, vivid coloured EWI render panels and finished with a bespoke brise soleil system, which provides privacy to penthouse residents, whilst still affording scenic views over the city.

Access: Situated within a bustling apartment complex, the building presented a unique challenge for our remediation efforts. Gaining access was no small feat – we had to navigate through the underground secure car park, ascend a staircase into the courtyard, or convert an existing electrical meter room by removing a tall stained glass privacy window and installing a temporary access door. Every step required meticulous care and precision, as we manoeuvered scaffolding and essential building materials through these tight spaces to bring our project to life.

Welfare: With space at a premium, we creatively transformed part of the underground car park into our office and welfare facilities. For every challenge we face, we find a way to overcome it.

Scope of Works: The initial scope of works involved the careful removal of the existing copper and flammable EWI façade, along with the combustible PUR insulation and plywood backing board affixed directly to the SFS frame. This was essential for the installation of side rise cavity barriers and firebreaks at all floor levels, around window and door openings, and at all internal compartment lines.

Existing Brise Soleil: To facilitate the stripping and installation works, we had to remove the steel supports and brise soleil blades at the penthouse levels. The wooden blades were not only extremely faded and jaded but also no longer met current building regulations. We enlisted the expertise of a local established metal design manufacturer who came on site, sanded down, and spray-painted the existing steels to look like new again. In place of the old blades, they manufactured identical aluminium blades, powder-coated to a wooden effect RAL colour. The completion photos clearly showcase the immaculate results.

• Existing Copper: We conscientiously directed the copper to an approved metal recycling outlet, ensuring it was repurposed and diverted from landfills.
• Plywood and Other Timbers: We proudly partnered with the Bristol Wood Recycling Project (BWRP), which repurposes and reuses the wood within the local community. This initiative not only dramatically reduced our reliance on standard skip companies but also made a significant impact on our carbon footprint. By diverting perfectly good wood from landfills, we contributed to a more sustainable and eco-friendlier project.