Translucent cladding installed at flagship warehousing facility

The Equinix UK flagship centre has installed Kalwall’s translucent cladding as part of its new 8,000 square metre LD6 data warehousing facility. 

The cladding has been installed to form a link between Equinix’s two sister data centres, which has become one of the world’s largest Internet Exchanges.

Designed by Arup Group and constructed by Laing O’Rourke, building envelope specialist Lakesmere commissioned Structura UK to install the cladding.

The Kalwall cladding diffuses natural daylight into the buildings interior, whilst its 0.56 W/m2K U-value optimises thermal performance and prevents solar heat gain. The translucent cladding helps to obscure vision and retain privacy in some parts of the facility. 

This use of Kalwall is part of Equinix’s commitment to reduce its carbon footprint and energy consumption.

Translucent cladding

Unlike conventional glazing, Kalwall’s translucent system eliminates shades and glare and the stark contrasts of light and shades, meaning blinds, curtains and solar control are not needed.

The cladding also reduces the need for artificial lighting and because Kalwall is highly insulating, energy costs are reduced.

In addition to being specified for all types of new build projects, Kalwall is increasingly used for refurbishment of cladding or rooflights on aged buildings.