Clear perspective

The design of a balustrade depends on a variety of factors. When a private, sheltered balcony is required, the balustrade needs to be solid, but where extra light is wanted, or there is a view to be enjoyed, a clear, unobtrusive balustrade is likely to provide a more appropriate design solution.

Melview Developments, the developer of Wellington's new Holiday Inn, and architect Studio Pacific, envisaged a contemporary look for the exterior of this building, and on the interior they wanted the rooms to be oriented to capture plenty of light, and the expansive views across the harbour or the western hills.

Ullrich Aluminium was commissioned to design and manufacture the balustrades for the balconies on all 17 stories of the 280-room hotel. To ensure the balustrades are as unobtrusive as possible, and frame rather than block the views, they have been manufactured from powdercoated aluminium frames with glass inserts by Ullrich Aluminium.

A key feature of the design is the strength of the balustrades, says factory manager John McDonald.

"These balustrades were an aesthetic and cost-effective solution, and the materials used meant they could be contoured to fit the angles of the building, and custom-made to suit the local conditions. They meet high safety standards, being designed to withstand the prevailing wind which, at the top of the building, can be strong," says McDonald.

Contact Ullrich Aluminium, PO Box 98843, South Auckland Mail Centre, Auckland 2240, phone (09) 262 6262, fax (09) 262 6265. Email: alkalum@uacl.co.nz. Website: www.ullrich-aluminium.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas