International-House-Exterior-Angle-02-scaled
International-House-Interior-02-scaled
International-House-Exterior-Angle-scaled
International-House-Interior-Angle-scaled
Overview
International House is a prominent harbourside property that required glazing refurbishment to restore performance, improve occupant comfort, and maintain the architectural integrity of the building.
Over time, glazing systems in commercial buildings can deteriorate due to environmental exposure, structural movement, and general wear. Failed glazing units reduce insulation performance, allow unwanted noise penetration, and diminish the overall efficiency of the building envelope.
Structura was appointed to undertake the refurbishment of windows and large sliding feature doors across the property. The objective was to replace failed glazing units while preserving the existing framework wherever possible.
The project focused on improving thermal performance, light transmittance, and acoustic insulation while maintaining the original façade design. By refurbishing and upgrading the glazing systems rather than replacing the entire façade structure, the project delivered improved building performance with minimal disruption to the existing architecture.
This case study demonstrates how targeted glazing refurbishment can extend the lifespan of building envelope systems while significantly improving performance outcomes.
Details
Client:
Blackstone
Location:
Tower Bridge, London
Architect:
JRA Architects
Main Contractor:
Collins Construction Ltd
Consultant:
Cladtech Associates
Project Metrics
Although glazing refurbishment projects are often highly customised, several key parameters describe the scope of work delivered at International House. Key performance and project metrics include:
Project type
Commercial glazing refurbishment
Scope of works
- Replacement of failed glazing units
- Installation of double-glazed systems
- Low-iron glazing installation
- Refurbishment of windows and sliding feature doors
- Refinishing and paint spraying of existing framework
- Servicing of original window and door systems
Performance improvements
- Improved thermal insulation through double glazing
- Increased light transmittance using low-iron glass
- Enhanced acoustic performance
- Restored functionality of sliding feature doors
The Challenge
Glazing refurbishment projects require careful technical assessment and precise execution, particularly when the objective is to upgrade performance while preserving existing building components. For the International House project, several challenges had to be addressed.
Failed Glazing Units
The building contained several glazing units that had deteriorated over time. Failed glazing can occur when the seal within double glazing units breaks down, allowing moisture to penetrate between the panes. This leads to several issues, including reduced thermal insulation, decreased clarity of glazing panels, condensation between panes, and lower energy efficiency within the building. The replacement of these failed units was therefore essential to restore the building envelope’s performance.
Maintaining the Existing Framework
A key requirement of the project was to refurbish the existing window and door framework rather than completely replace it. Maintaining the original framework helps preserve the architectural appearance of the building and reduces the environmental impact associated with full façade replacement. However, refurbishing existing systems requires careful preparation, including cleaning, refinishing, and ensuring the structural integrity of all components before installing new glazing units.
Large Sliding Feature Doors
The property also included large sliding feature doors that formed an important architectural element of the building. These doors required both functional and aesthetic refurbishment to ensure they operated smoothly while maintaining their visual appearance. Because sliding door systems contain moving parts and large glazing panels, servicing and refurbishment had to be carried out with precision to ensure long-term reliability.
Harbourside Environmental Exposure
Buildings located near waterfront environments are often exposed to higher levels of wind, moisture, and salt in the air. These conditions can accelerate the deterioration of façade components. The refurbishment therefore needed to ensure that the glazing systems and surrounding framework could withstand these environmental factors while continuing to perform efficiently.
Structura’s Solution
Structura delivered a comprehensive glazing refurbishment programme that addressed both performance and aesthetic considerations. The project involved the replacement of failed glazing units, refurbishment of existing window and door systems, and improvements to the overall building envelope performance.
Replacement of Failed Glazing
The first stage of the project involved identifying glazing units that had failed or were no longer performing effectively. These units were replaced with modern double-glazed systems, designed to improve insulation performance and reduce heat transfer through the building envelope.
Double glazing consists of two panes of glass separated by an insulating air gap. This design helps improve thermal performance and reduces heat loss compared with single-pane glazing systems. By installing new double-glazed units, Structura was able to restore the effectiveness of the glazing while maintaining the original façade structure.
Low-Iron Glazing Installation
To improve natural daylight within the building, low-iron glazing was installed as part of the refurbishment. Low-iron glass contains reduced levels of iron compared with standard glass. This results in improved light transmittance and clearer visual appearance.
The benefits of low-iron glazing include higher levels of natural daylight entering the building, reduced colour distortion when viewing through the glass, improved visual clarity, and enhanced aesthetic appearance of the façade. For buildings located in attractive waterfront environments, maximising natural light and visibility is particularly valuable.
Window & Door Refurbishment
In addition to replacing glazing units, Structura refurbished the existing window and door framework to ensure the systems continued to operate reliably. This work included:
- Refinishing of window and door frames
- Professional paint spraying to restore surface protection
- Servicing of sliding door mechanisms
- Inspection and maintenance of the original framework
Refurbishment allowed the existing façade components to be retained while improving both functionality and appearance. By restoring the existing framework rather than replacing it, the project also reduced material waste and minimised disruption to the building.
Careful Installation and Finishing
Glazing refurbishment requires careful handling and installation to ensure the new units integrate properly with the existing systems. Structura’s installation team ensured that all glazing panels were fitted precisely and sealed correctly to prevent future moisture penetration. Attention to detail during installation helps ensure long-term durability and consistent performance across the building envelope.
Project Results
The refurbishment of the glazing systems at International House delivered several measurable improvements to building performance and occupant comfort. By upgrading the glazing while retaining the original framework, the project achieved significant benefits without requiring a full façade replacement.
Improved Thermal Performance
One of the primary outcomes of the project was improved thermal insulation. The installation of modern double-glazed units reduces heat transfer through the building envelope. This helps stabilise internal temperatures and reduces the amount of energy required to heat or cool the building. Improved thermal performance contributes to:
- Greater indoor comfort
- Reduced energy consumption
- More efficient building operation
Increased Light Transmittance
The use of low-iron glazing significantly improved the amount of natural daylight entering the building. Increased light transmittance enhances interior spaces and can reduce reliance on artificial lighting during daytime hours. This is particularly valuable for buildings located in visually appealing environments, where natural views and daylight contribute to the overall experience of the space.
Enhanced Acoustic Performance
Glazing systems also play an important role in reducing external noise entering the building. The installation of new double-glazed units improved acoustic insulation compared with the previous glazing systems. This helps create quieter indoor environments and improves comfort for occupants.
Refurbished Window & Door Systems
The refurbishment and servicing of the original window and door framework restored both the appearance and functionality of these systems. Large sliding feature doors were carefully serviced to ensure smooth operation while maintaining the architectural design of the façade. This work extended the lifespan of the building’s façade systems and avoided the need for more extensive structural replacement.
Why Glazing Refurbishment Extends Building Lifespan
Glazing systems are one of the most important components of the building envelope. Over time, ageing glazing units can reduce energy efficiency and compromise occupant comfort. Targeted refurbishment offers several advantages over complete façade replacement, including lower cost compared with full system replacement, reduced material waste, faster project delivery, and preservation of the original architectural design. By upgrading glazing performance while retaining existing structural components, building owners can significantly extend the lifespan of façade systems.
Structura’s Expertise in Glazing Refurbishment
Structura works with architects, developers, and contractors across the UK to deliver specialist façade engineering and glazing refurbishment solutions. Projects include window and door refurbishment, curtain wall upgrades, commercial glazing replacements, structural glass installations, and façade refurbishment projects. Through careful planning, technical expertise, and precise installation, Structura helps ensure that building envelope systems continue to perform efficiently for many years.