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A ripple-effect architectural feature over the University of Nottingham’s under construction Orchard Hotel has been completed.
Designed by RHWL Architects and built by BAM Construction, the canopy will be one of the most striking features of the £20 million eco-friendly hotel. An integral part of RHWL’s competition-winning design, the canopy will highlight the hotel’s entrance by providing solar shading and filtered light to the public front-of-house reception and the foyer lounges within.
Timber was used to create the feature to respond to the natural setting of the nearby trees, while the structure’s ripple reflects the contours of the hillside landscape in which the building sits.
RHWL Architects associate Corrie Jones said: “This will be a landmark hotel that reflects its beautiful parkland setting, right from the design and choice of materials through to the furnishings of each room.
“The site itself offered an opportunity to forge a strong link between the conference centre and the rest of the university and this is something that has strongly driven our design.”
BAM Construction’s project manager Mark Ferrie added: “The installation of the canopy marks the last key architectural element in the construction, which is due for completion in November.”
Eco-friendly features of the hotel include a green roof system, photovoltaic panels, smart building management systems and energy efficient lighting, glazing and ventilation systems. The features have been installed with the aim of achieving a BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’.
