Hotel guests can sleep soundly thanks to Granada Glazing…
Situated in the heart of Russell Square, the historic Grade II* listed Kimpton Fitzroy London Hotel opened in 1900 as one of the first purpose-built hotels in London. Originally designed by the renowned architect Charles Fitzroy Doll, much of the hotel’s opulent interior was the inspiration for Doll’s designs for the RMS Titanic.
After extensive restoration, it reopened in 2018 as a modern luxurious 5-star hotel while still retaining its important architectural splendour.
Due to the hotel’s central London location, noise insulation from traffic using the busy main road was a key requirement in this major renovation project. The primary windows could not be changed due to the building’s Listed status and the owners wanted to retain them to keep the building’s original character.
Granada Glazing’s aluminium secondary glazing was specified to attenuate external noise and create a quieter, more comfortable experience for patrons in the 334 individual custom finished guest rooms and 39 new luxury suites.
Working with London-based EPR Architects, Granada Glazing designed, manufactured and installed a bespoke system using two and three-pane horizontal sliding windows, balanced vertical sliders and heritage hinged units to blend unobtrusively with the existing primary windows.
Secondary glazing vertical sliders are used in conjunction with traditional box sash windows. Sitting discreetly on the inside of the original windows, they function in the same way as double glazing to create a warmer, quieter and more comfortable environment, yet do not impact on the façade or external appearance of the building. A tilt in option is available which enables both panels to individually tilt into the room for easy cleaning.
Powder-coated in a white high gloss finish, the slimline aluminium frames support 6.4mm acoustic laminated glass that was crucial to meet the required noise reduction level. Granada’s secondary glazing can reduce noise levels by as much as 80% (54 decibels). In total, 900 units were manufactured and installed, increasing both acoustic and thermal insulation.
A key challenge was the size of the project. Working to a pre-agreed programme and Granada’s close collaboration with the main contractor S&T Interiors and Contracting helped to ensure smooth delivery of the scope of the works.
Renovations across nine floors also involved reconfiguration of the public areas and inclusion of new restaurants, bars and event spaces. Principally, secondary glazing was installed to combat noise and make the hotel quieter. An additional benefit is greater thermal efficiency, reducing the building’s carbon footprint and energy costs.
Granada Glazing partners with architects and specifiers on the design, manufacture and supply of high quality commercial secondary glazing for all sectors and building types across the UK. For more information on how we can assist with your project, please telephone 01909 499 899 or email: info@granadaglazing.com.