Construction Details: The Melvin Hall project aimed to expand an existing block of flats by adding a lightweight 5th floor. This additional level required innovative solutions to meet safety, aesthetic, and structural requirements without imposing excessive weight on the existing structure. ACS’s FastClad A2 product, a robust brick slip cladding system, provided the ideal solution due to its lightweight design, non-combustible A2-s1,d0 fire rating, and compatibility with modern building techniques.

Challenges: Adding a new level to an existing building posed unique challenges. The primary concern was maintaining the structural integrity of the original construction while ensuring that the new addition met stringent fire safety and insulation standards. The project also demanded a seamless aesthetic match between the existing façade and the new level, ensuring a cohesive look across all five floors.

Solution: FastClad A2 was chosen for its exceptional lightweight properties, making it perfect for non-load-bearing applications like the Melvin Hall expansion.

FastClad A2 provided the look of traditional masonry without the weight. Its A2 fire rating further made it suitable for a residential building exceeding 18 meters, satisfying regulatory requirements for safety in high-rise applications. Additionally, FastClad’s flexibility allowed the design team to work with an array of brick types and textures to match the building's existing façade.