Early engagement in the Richmond Homes Sandyford development allowed Sapphire to streamline balcony design and reduce costs while retaining the project’s original vision. Designed by Henry J Lyons & Partners Architects and constructed by John Paul Construction for Richmond Homes, Sandyford Central comprises 564 apartments spread across six distinct blocks, with 434 featuring aluminium, Glide-on balconies manufactured and supplied by Sapphire. The scheme emphasises communal amenity spaces, including a reception, gym, co-working areas, lounges, multifunctional rooms, a panoramic rooftop lounge, a crèche, and a café.
Richmond Homes faced the challenge of creating a contemporary aesthetic without compromising on time or cost. Early engagement was crucial in overcoming this challenge. By collaborating closely with key stakeholders, Sapphire identified the essential aspects of different boundary types and created a balcony design that seamlessly integrated them into a cohesive aesthetic.
Henry J Lyons maximised the use of BIM throughout the design and delivery phases of Sandyford Central, incorporating substantial prefabrication elements such as a fully precast concrete frame, Sapphire’s prefabricated balconies, and offsite-produced bathroom pods. This strategy significantly reduced construction timelines and financial impact, ultimately leading to the project’s completion four months ahead of schedule.
Sapphire’s innovative Glide-On balconies are designed to be rigid, lightweight, and quick to install. Each balcony Cassette® is delivered preassembled and factory-finished to a high-quality standard, requiring minimal on-site finishing. The lightweight aluminium construction reduces the number of façade penetrations needed, minimising the risk of cold bridging and damp issues. This efficient manufacturing process eliminates the hassle of coordinating multiple trades on-site, streamlining the construction process and ensuring high-quality results.
Sapphire’s innovative Glide-On balconies are designed to be rigid, lightweight, and quick to install. Each balcony Cassette® is delivered preassembled and factory-finished to a high-quality standard, requiring minimal on-site finishing. The lightweight aluminium construction reduces the number of façade penetrations needed, minimising the risk of cold bridging and damp issues. This efficient manufacturing process eliminates the hassle of coordinating multiple trades on-site, streamlining the construction process and ensuring high-quality results.
For more information about Sapphire Balconies and their architectural balcony solutions, visit https://balconies.global/