CASE STUDY: HIGH-PERFORMANCE PARNELL SQUARE STUDENT ACCOMMODATION FAÇADE SOLUTION WITH SIG
Overview
Main Contractor: GEM Construction
Subcontractor: Kevin Wilson Plastering Limited
Products Supplied: Equitone Rainscreen Panels and Downer Subframe System
SIG partnered with GEM Construction and Kevin Wilson Plastering Limited to deliver a modern, high-quality façade solution for the €30m student accommodation project on Parnell Street, Dublin. This transformative development, incorporating the historic St. Peter’s Bakery, is set to redefine student living in the heart of Dublin City Centre.
About the Project:
The Parnell Street Student Accommodation project features 276 student beds distributed across 249 rooms in a 6-storey complex spanning five blocks, with a focus on architecture, sustainability, and community. It includes modern amenities such as communal spaces, landscaped outdoor areas, and roof terraces, alongside the conservation and restoration of one of Dublin’s protected structures.
SIG’s Contribution
Overcoming Challenges with Technical Expertise
The project’s success hinged on the expert contributions from SIG’s Technical Solutions team, who provided comprehensive support during the critical design and installation phases.
Technical Contributions
1. Panel Layout Optimisation
SIG’s expertise ensured an efficient and visually impactful arrangement of the Equitone panels. This layout not only enhanced the building’s aesthetic appeal but also supported a more streamlined installation process.
2. Material Optimisation
Through careful planning and resource allocation, SIG minimised material waste and reduced overall costs, providing a cost-efficient and sustainable solution for the project.
U-value Target Achievement
Kevin Wilson Plastering Limited approached SIG’s technical team for product recommendations and U-value calculations. The initial build-up did not meet the stringent U-value target of 0.15 W/m²K, but SIG’s calculation service provided an optimal solution.
Solution Overview
• SIG recommended and supplied 150mm Rockwool Steelframe Slab for the SFS external wall cladding and 220mm Rockwool Rainscreen Duo for the external rainscreen wall.
• These Rockwool products optimised the build-up, ensuring that the design achieved the required U-value, while providing superior thermal and acoustic insulation.
• Nearly all the insulation materials for the walls of this project were supplied by SIG Insulation, underscoring our role as a comprehensive support partner.
Collaborative Success
The collaboration between SIG Facades, SIG Technical Solutions, SIG Insulation, GEM Construction, and Kevin Wilson Plastering Limited established this project as a benchmark in modern and sustainable facade solutions.
• Efficiency and Sustainability: SIG’s contributions directly supported sustainable construction practices by reducing material waste and ensuring energy efficiency.
• Streamlined Installation: The technical services provided by SIG empowered Kevin Wilson Plastering Limited to execute a seamless installation.
• High-Quality Results: Along with ensuring the project met all EU regulations, the finished façade combines durability, functionality, and an unmistakable aesthetic, meeting all performance criteria required by the client.
This partnership showcases SIG’s ability to meet complex architectural challenges, enhance modern designs, and contribute to the sustainable transformation of urban environments.
Why Choose SIG?
This project demonstrates SIG’s unparalleled expertise in façade optimisation, technical precision, and product performance. From architects to contractors, SIG provides end-to-end support that ensures efficient, sustainable, and visually stunning outcomes.
If you’re ready to transform your next project with innovative façade solutions, contact SIG today!
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Michael McDonnell Managing Editor of Irish Construction Industry Magazine & Plan Magazine
Email: michael@irishconstruction.com WWW.MCDMEDIA.IE
