A world first for Kalwall
The Kalwall diffused daylighting system is lighting up the world’s biggest Audi centre in West London. Specified by Wilkinson Eyre architects, the translucent cladding is a major feature of this state of the art architectural design.
The crispness of the structure’s modelling and the clever use of natural daylight are designed to showcase the expensive stock which is displayed on three floors to such dramatic effect. Located by the Chiswick flyover on London’s Great West Road, the building presents a stunning image by day and emits an ethereal glow by night.
Unlike conventional glazing, Kalwall eliminates shadows and glare and the stark contrasts of light and shade. The system also enhances simplicity by eliminating the need for blinds, curtains or solar control. Even on cloudy days, the showroom is flooded with natural daylight, which means less artificial lighting and, because Kalwall is highly insulating, energy costs are reduced. U values as low as 0.28 W/mK, equivalent to a solid wall, can be achieved by including translucent Nanogel silica aerogel within the panels.
Kalwall roof systems can be bespoke (with structure by others) or are available in self-supporting barrel and low profile vaults, up to 7.4m span, and self-supporting ridge roofs, up to 6m span. The lightness of the panels mean installation is less costly and far less cumbersome than glass. The panels have inherent rigidity and impact resistance, are largely self-cleaning and because, dirt is less obvious that on glass, frequency of maintenance is reduced.
The Kalwall translucent system is widely specified for many different cladding and roofing projects, ranging from schools and hospitals to commercial buildings and leisure facilities.
Technical information about Kalwall, including downloadable project information is available from www.stoakes.co.uk or tel 0208 660 7667



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