Arkay Windows and AluK Collaborate on the Iconic Escapade Silverstone Project
Arkay Windows and AluK have teamed up to deliver an impressive glazing solution for the prestigious Escapade Silverstone project, a £53 million development of 60 luxury villas located right at the heart of the legendary British racetrack. This landmark development is not just a visual spectacle but a technical triumph, showcasing Arkay’s expertise in fabrication and installation alongside AluK’s advanced aluminium systems.
Project Overview
The Escapade Silverstone villas offer an unparalleled experience for motorsport enthusiasts, situated next to some of the most thrilling corners of the track, including Copse, Maggots, and Becketts. Designed with the notion of ‘slipstreaming’ in mind, these villas feature a unique architectural style where the first floor appears to flow in the wake of the ground floor. The development serves as both an investment opportunity and a hospitality haven for those passionate about racing.
Scope of Work
Arkay Windows was entrusted with the fabrication and installation of more than 3,200m² of glazing, including AluK’s SC156 sliding doors, C70S windows, and SL52 curtain walling. This extensive scope required precise coordination with HG Construction, the main contractor, and close collaboration with architects Twelve to refine the specifications to achieve optimal performance and aesthetics.
The project included 260 C70S windows, 268 SL52 curtain walling screens, and 51 SC156 sliding doors. Trackside villas, just 11 metres from the track, necessitated high-performance glazing with an overall acoustic rating of 45dB. Arkay successfully delivered on this requirement using 46mm acoustic laminated glazing units, weighing 74kg per m².
Technical Excellence
AluK’s technical team played a pivotal role in ensuring the compatibility of their systems with the specialised requirements of this project. Their expertise guided the decision to use the C70S system, capable of supporting the heavy-duty glass specifications, and they performed in-house testing on the SC156 sliding doors to verify durability and smooth operation.
The result is a seamless integration of high-performance glazing that not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the villas but also provides excellent thermal efficiency (U-Values < 1.4 W/m²K) and robust acoustic protection. These features contribute to the project’s BREEAM ‘Very Good’ sustainability rating, making it a benchmark for future luxury developments.
Challenges and Solutions
The tight timeline of the project, coinciding with the British Grand Prix 2024, presented significant logistical challenges. Arkay’s on-site team demonstrated exceptional coordination with other trades, managed difficult weather conditions, and employed specialist glass lifting machinery to handle the heavy glazing units in confined spaces.
Why Arkay Windows Stands Out
This project exemplifies Arkay Windows' capacity to deliver on complex, high-profile projects. Their long standing relationship with HG Construction, bolstered by the success of previous collaborations such as the Canada Street development, cemented their role as a trusted partner for this ambitious venture.
Arkay’s meticulous attention to detail, combined with AluK’s innovative product range and technical support, resulted in a project that not only meets but exceeds the client’s expectations. From slim sightlines to superior acoustic and thermal performance, the Escapade Silverstone development showcases what can be achieved when quality, expertise, and collaboration come together.
Conclusion
The Escapade Silverstone project is a testament to Arkay Windows' commitment to excellence and innovation in the fenestration industry. Their successful collaboration with AluK has resulted in a striking development that sets a new standard for luxury residential projects, providing a truly unique experience for residents and motorsport enthusiasts alike. This case study highlights Arkay’s expertise and capability to manage and deliver complex, high-specification projects, reinforcing their reputation as a leader in the industry.