Developer IM Properties has installed the largest building wrap in the UK at its 55 Colmore Row redevelopment in Birmingham city centre.
Delivered by industry specialists Embrace Building Wraps, the combined visual display extends around three sides of the building, totalling 2,445 sq m. This is just under 10% larger than the previous record – also delivered by Embrace – which was the 2,200 sq m wrap at St James Market in Central London, installed in 2014.
Designed to contain dust generated by renovation works, building wraps provide a more aesthetically appealing alternative to standard safety netting and have become increasingly commonplace on large scale, high quality construction projects.
John Hammond, Investment Director at IM Properties, said: “This wrap looks fantastic and provides a really strong statement that matches our aspirations for the redevelopment of 55 Colmore Row, creating an impactful, contemporary space right in the heart of Birmingham city centre.”
The wrap for 55 Colmore Row took over 500 man hours to complete and, weighing in at 1,200 kg, features 2,500 brass eyelets to secure it to the scaffolding around the building.
Greg Foster, Managing Director at Embrace Building Wraps, said: “It’s great to be a part of this exciting and ground-breaking project which has created a real buzz. It is always a pleasure to be leading the industry by delivering landmark developments such as this and it’s been fantastic working in the heart of Birmingham and experiencing first hand this dynamic, visionary and unique city.”
IM Properties is undertaking a comprehensive £30 million redevelopment of 55 Colmore Row that will deliver 160,000 sq ft of Grade A space, including the addition of two new floors, set behind the Grade II Listed Victorian façade with a vista across St Philips Cathedral.
New restaurant units will also be installed on the lower ground floor and the rear elevation will be replaced with full height floor-to-ceiling glazing.
Work is due to be completed in autumn 2016.
