PROJECT BACKGROUND

The Maggie’s Centre project at the Royal Free Hospital presented unique challenges from its inception. Designed with an unconventional shape, the building demanded an innovative approach to installing the underfloor heating systems due to its rounded walls. Our technical engineers navigated these challenges alongside our expert fitters, ensuring a seamless installation that met the project’s exacting standards.

SPECIALIST REQUESTS AND TECHNICAL CHALLENGES

The primary challenge stemmed from the building’s distinctive architecture. Traditionally, underfloor heating installations rely on consistent floor shapes, which wasn’t the case in this project. Our team had to devise a solution that accommodated the irregular layout while delivering efficient heating throughout the space. This required meticulous planning and execution.

We implemented a combination of products tailored to the project’s needs. We utilised Mercury Halo grooved aluminium floating floor panels which allowed for versatile routing of Mercury 12mm pipe to fit the irregular floor shape. Additionally, plain XPS was employed to raise the levels where necessary, ensuring uniformity despite the building’s uneven surfaces. The integration of ScreedBoard 20 in wet areas allowed for a tiled floor covering. In other areas a key strength of Halo was utilised allowing for direct application of a 20mm engineered oak timber floor, removing the need for a capping layer and therefore enhancing the system’s performance and reducing the floor buildup.

INNOVATIVE APPROACH AND SOLUTION

One of the key innovations of this project was the incorporation of an underfloor heating system within the routed Mercury Halo panels. This allowed us to seamlessly integrate heating functionality into the flooring structure, maximising space and minimising visual impact. By leveraging our expertise and technology we were able to deliver a solution that not only met but exceeded client expectations.

COLLABORATION AND COORDINATION

Achieving success on this project required close collaboration and coordination among all stakeholders. Multiple coordination meetings were conducted to ensure that every aspect of the installation was meticulously planned and executed. This proactive approach facilitated smooth progress and timely completion.

CONCLUSION

The Maggie’s Centre project at the Royal Free Hospital stands as a testament to our team’s ability to overcome technical challenges and deliver innovative solutions. Through collaborative effort and technical expertise, we transformed a unique architectural design into a functional and efficient heating system that meets the needs of staff and patients in this wonderful centre.