Client: British Land

Overview

The design brief was to create a strong visual signature for this new central London office development. The proposal was for a curved glass wall that started outside and curved in to and through the reception space. It is a double height, 90sqm glass wall. The blue colour wash was created using hand screen printed ceramic enamel with a mirror pin stripe over laid. The ceramic enamel is printed and fired on to toughened, laminated glass.

Goals

The intention was to create a unifying link between the entrance and dichroic fins on the South and West facades through a continuous flow of colour and pattern around the building. The mirrored glass wall becomes animated and interactive as people move through the space reflecting the use of the building and the vibrant location. As a commercial development in Central London it was important for the artwork to celebrate the location. The colour palette responds to the large vista of changing sky above the roof tops of Portman Square.

Process

The project was a close collaboration between artist, architect, client, building contractor and fabricator. The artist and architect had regular workshop meetings from planning stage through to final design proposal. Designs were presented to the client at agreed stages for sign off. Following final design proposal the artist, building contractor and glass studio collaborated closely to fabricator and install the completed artwork. The artist was consulted on the interior finishes and the reception desk. The colour palette of the artwork was also used by the architects throughout the building in lift lobbies and communal areas