Felix O’Hare & Co Ltd was entrusted with the major refurbishment of AIB bank’s Grade A Head Office in the heart of Belfast’s city centre. The project comprised of stripping out the entire internal building fabric, back to its shell, replacement of glazing, and installation of revolving entrance door to the main tower of the building. The ground, first and second floors were completely refurbished, including all new mechanical & electrical services, loose furniture and fittings, AV equipment and security equipment to AIB specification. The refurbishment also included fit-out of the main toilets; lift lobbies and stairwells to the third and fourth floors and basic M&E installations to the third, fourth and fifth floors for future tenants to fit out.
This complex project presented a number of logistical headaches for the Felix O’Hare team, admitted Contracts Manager, Barry Loughran, “The strip-out and fit-out had to be carried out within the bank’s live working environment so it was quite challenging. We were restricted in terms of times for when noisy work could be carried out to ensure that disruption to the client and the neighbouring hotel was kept to a minimum.
“However, the client was extremely co-operative, which helped things massively. We worked out a phased approach to the programme. Phase one involved a complete strip-out and fit-out of the first floor, including all new mechanical and electrical services, new floor, ceiling finishes, and internal furniture.
“The intention was that once we completed the first floor the client would decant one of the other floors into it and we would progress on to the emptied floor. But Covid threw a spanner in the works and the site closed for 10 weeks. With close collaboration with the client and their design team we were able to re-phase the project.
“With the majority of the bank’s people working from home we were able to maintain the same number of operatives on site but split over two floors, thanks to AIB allowing earlier possession of the 2nd floor. This significantly helped the entire process and helped us to adhere to social distancing and other safe working practices.”
Felix O’Hare produced the majority of the bespoke joinery items from their Newry workshop, including birch panelling, reception counter and all internal cupboards and built-in furniture units.
Maintaining the existing M+E systems while providing all new systems was definitely tricky but made much smoother thanks to great co-ordination and communication with the design team, the client, sub contractors and the AIB branch staff.
“We held weekly meetings to provide look aheads,” said Barry. “We provided programmes for the sub contractors, design team and the client to keep them up to date with what we were doing. Our site team had to co-ordinate with security personnel on a daily basis. For obvious reasons, we could not gain access to any occupied space without a security officer present. So each day we had to provide names and details of all operatives who would be working in such a designated area.”
The complexities of the working environment coupled with an extremely restricted site access for supply deliveries etc would be a tall order for most contractors to contend with. Yet Felix O’Hare and their supply chain rose to all challenges to fulfil a highly complicated brief to Grade A standards. Barry is full of praise for the efforts of his team to achieve this. “The success of the project was down to the relationship that our site team developed with AIB. I am very proud of them.”
Project team…
Client: AIB
Main Contractor: Felix O’Hare & Co. Ltd
Project Manager: Nigel Lynch & Associates
Architect: Todds Architects
M&E Design: Semple & McKillop
HVAC Constultant: Delta-RAC
Quantity Surveyor: Hawthorne Consulting
Civil and Structural Engineer: Hanna & Hutchinson
Mechanical Contractor: McCorley Mechanical Services
Electrical Contractor: Braham Electrical
Felix O’Hare & Co Ltd
88 Chancellors Road
Newry
Co. Down
BT35 8NG
T: +44 (0)28 3026 1134
E: admin@felixohare.com
www.felixohare.com
- MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR
- ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
- INTERIOR LANDSCAPING
- RAISED ACCESS FLOORING
- ENTRANCE SYSTEM
- REVOLVING ACCESS DOOR
- PROJECT MANAGEMENT
- STEELWORKS
- ACOUSTICS
- OFFICE FURNITURE
- HVAC SYSTEM DESIGN
- FIRE PROTECTION
- LIFT SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION
- SOFT FURNISHINGS
- TILING CONTRACTOR
- ALUMINIUM CURTAIN WALLING
- GLAZED PARTITIONS
- CIVIL AND STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS
McCorley Mechanical & Electrical
McCorley Mechanical & Electrical delivers outstanding mechanical services to Grade A office refit for AIB…
With a mechanical value of £2.1 million, the AIB Grade A Head Office strip-out and fit-out highlights McCorley Mechanical & Electrical’s ability to service apex schemes.
The five-storey building, which houses the AIB banks Northern Ireland Head Office staff, was completely stripped out of all existing mechanical services. Full installations were fitted to three floors, with a basic system implemented on the remaining two floors for future tenants to fit out.
The programme of works was made more complex by the ‘live’ nature of the site. All new services had to be phased in while the building was still fully functioning with the old services. While the McCorley team was working on the first floor providing all new ductwork and ventilation and air conditioning systems they still had to maintain the existing systems, which were operating and servicing the ground and second floor.
The mechanical installation included a full new gas heating system, chilled water system, domestic services, ventilation, air handlers and a new gas supply into the building. A pair of new air-handling units and full ductwork were installed on the roof of the building and integrated into every floor. All pipework was integrated into the existing chillers and new air conditioning units were fitted throughout various area of the building. The boilers were replaced with new gas boilers in a redesigned plantroom and boiler room. The existing boilers had to remain live but the team sequenced it so they could carry out the switchover during the summer holiday period when demand for heat in the building was negligible.
The ‘live’ status of the building, limited access and the unprecedented disruption of the Covid pandemic all presented hurdles for McCorley M&E along with the rest of the construction team. However, McCorley’s admirable track record for delivering projects to a high standard, on time and within budget is forged out of the company’s unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding quality of works, no matter the challenge.
“There were plenty of hurdles to jump,” admitted John McCorley, Director. “For example, the main installation had to be handled on site by mast climbers because of limited access. We also had to close Ann Street for a full Sunday in mid–December to facilitate a crane lift of the substantial AHU on to the roof.”
McCorleys services are underpinned by years of experience and an extensive knowledge base. Their objective is to always provide value to clients through obtaining maximum potential for their assets, managing risk and providing sustainable solutions.
The work of McCorley M&E has been recognised by the industry as they were named winner of the Medium Contractor of the Year Award at the 2021 Northern Ireland Plumbing & Heating Awards, in what was a very highly contested category. The Toomebridge, Co Antrim – based company has always placed a huge emphasis on customer satisfaction. To achieve this, they focus on quality work by using superior materials and a proficient and experienced workforce.
The company works on commercial and industrial projects across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Scotland.
Established by John’s father, Pat – who is still heavily involved in the company – McCorley Mechanical Ltd’s ability to diversify has ensured strong order books. “We have a very experienced team and we are happy to complete work across a range of sectors,” explained John. “Whether it is restoration work of listed buildings or a new build commercial project, we have the in-house mechanical and electrical knowledge to complete this work to the highest standards.”
T: +44 (0)28 7965 0823
E: info@mccorley.me
Facebook: McCorley Mechanical & Electrical
Braham Electrical
Braham Electrical completes impressive £1.6m electrical refurbishment of the AIB Bank Head Office, Belfast…
Braham Electrical carried out the complete refurbishment of all services throughout the AIB Head Office building including the lighting, general power, data cabling and fire alarm systems.
On this difficult project, the client required the building to remain occupied, so it was carried out over four phases to ensure no interruption to the business. Shutdowns of the main power to allow alterations to the main switchboard were required over weekends to minimise disruption, along with shutdown and changeover of the IT network and ATM facilities.
Braham Electrical Director, Jason McQuaid commented, “Carrying out the works one floor at a time helped maintain business operation for AIB, but it added complication to the project, with system diversions and enabling works required to ensure mains power and data network systems remained live where needed.”
Braham Electricals’ longstanding relationship with the main contractor, Felix O’Hare in past projects proved vitally important to the success in the strategic planning required to provide the necessary direction and the exceptionally high standard of performance required to complete this project at every stage.
“We worked closely with Felix O’Hare throughout the project to ensure effective co-ordination and planning to identify and alleviate problems before they arose,” said Jason.
“The big issue we had to contend with, as everyone did, was Covid-19, which arrived during the first phase. This had a major impact, shutting down the project for several weeks. Even once the site reopened, it was at a reduced labour capacity due to the necessary enhanced testing and cleaning regimes. The program, however, was adjusted, and these issues were overcome resulting in a very successful contract.”
Braham Electrical
7A Charlotte St
Warrenpoint
Newry
BT34 3LF
T: +44 (0)28 4177 2989
E: info@brahamelectrical.com
www.brahamelectrical.com
AC Rentaplant
AC Rentaplant help boost bank staff’s wellbeing and air quality with 1,000-plant installation…
When staff at AIB Head Office return to their newly refurbished place of work they will benefit from improved wellbeing and air quality thanks to the design and planting of 1,000 live plants by interior landscape specialists, AC Rentaplant.
The Lisburn-based firm is a well-established supplier of interior landscaping services to Northern Ireland’s commercial sector. They were tasked with providing a biophilic design for the retrofit project. Biophilic design is a concept used to increase the connectivity of building users to the natural environment, in this case through the installation of live plants, live pictures and a living wall. AC Rentaplant also provided bespoke glass fibre plant containers to enhance the planting scheme.
Founded in 1974, the specialist firm has earned a solid reputation for their ability to install and maintain living walls. “We used Mobilane products on this project as we find their live walls to be efficient and unobtrusive, allowing the focus to be on the plants.”
Paul Easton, AC Rentaplant commented, “As business returns to the workplace, astute organisations and companies are realising the real benefits of plants both to the wellbeing of staff and in their ability to improve air quality. AIB embraced the whole idea of biophilia and were committed to the task of providing this for the staff and visitors. It’s not just about the aesthetics, there are many well documented tangible benefits too.”
With 1,000 live plants installed, this is AC Rentaplant’s largest project to date. “For us, the project ran smoothly and this was primarily due to the good communication between the client, the main contractor and ourselves,” said Paul. “It was a great project to be involved in and we would relish the chance to work with Felix O’Hare and AIB again in the future.”
AC Rentaplant Ltd
218 Lisburn Enterprise Centre
Enterprise Crescent
Lisburn BT28 2BP T: +44 (0)28 9266 9074 www.acrentaplant.com
Drew Wylie Building Services
Certified 5-star Kingspan installation specialists, Drew Wylie Building Services supplied and installed each floor to the AIB Head Office refurb project…
Drew Wylie Building Services is the dealer in Northern Ireland for the Kingspan range of access flooring products. The AIB project was a major re-fitting of each raised access Kingspan floor and required a high degree of close management of labour and materials to achieve the deadlines and keep interruption in the areas continuing to be used by AIB to a minimum.
As the project was completed during lockdown there were restrictions regarding numbers of labourers on site at any one time. However, excellent site management by the Felix O’Hare team and good communication lines ensured the project ran seamlessly, said Director, Drew Wylie. Adding, “Fortunately the range of floor finishes required for this project were all available from Kingspan`s Hull-based manufacturing facility and were delivered in a timely fashion to achieve the completion dates required.”
Drew Wylie Building Services have been supplying and installing Kingspan raised access flooring throughout Northern Ireland for over 20 years. The company is based in Carryduff and is still under the leadership of Drew Wylie.
With a history that dates back to the origins of access floors and way beyond, Kingspan continues to pioneer the sector by developing innovative products for use in commercial buildings, data centres and large retail premises. The company maintains a close link with the industry, visiting architects, developers and quantity surveyors to ensure specifiers have all of the latest information on their expanding range of products.
Commenting on the AIB project, Drew said, “Getting the project over the line, on time, and to the high standard required by the client was most satisfying for both the management and the fitting teams responsible for this site. “Our relationship with the Felix O’Hare team was excellent. They had many issues on site due to Covid and lockdowns but all our works were completed as per projected dates.”
Drew Wylie Building Services
129 Ballynahinch Road
Carryduff
BT8 8DJ.
T: Drew: +44 (0)28 9081 7170 ext 1
M: +44 (0)7711 070 777
E: drew@dwbs.co.uk
T: Dean: +44 (0)28 90817170 ext 3
M: +44 (0)7892 720341
E: dean@dwbs.co.uk
www.dwbs.co.uk
Electro Automation (NI) Ltd
Lisburn firm designs and installs an integrated entrance system that AIB can bank on…
For a financial company like AIB, having a secure, safe and reliable entrance system is vital, which is why Northern Ireland’s premier automation specialist, Electro Automation NI was entrusted to design and install the bank’s new Head Office access solution.
The Lisburn company was responsible for the design and full technical specification along with the operational outcomes of the Speed Lane Entrance System. Specific requirements were formed directly from meetings with the client and other specialist providers in Electro Automation’s interactive working showroom, explained James Boomer Integrated Sales Consultant. “This process gave all parties the opportunity to explore all the options and see exactly what the proposed system looked like both physically and operationally.
“This early detailed planning gave way to real savings in procurement, and the job was delivered to site and signed off on time and to exact requirements.”
From the outset of any potential project, Electro Automation takes a very customer-centric approach. “This starts with the ‘speed of response’,” said James. “We strongly believe the tone we set at the beginning goes a long way to keep the client engaged. Keeping abreast of all the demands and changes with any project along with accuracy is also key for us in getting to sign-off in good time.
“The systems we offer are of the best quality and are professionally installed and coupled with our after sales programs. We feel that the cost of ownership puts us ahead in our industry.”
Commenting on the completed project, he added, “Working with Felix O’Hare proved very satisfying. The site meetings were always very objective and all actions were always clearly assigned, communicated and delivered. The managers on site were very capable and no stone was left unturned. We look forward to working together on the next project.”
Electro Automation (NI) Ltd
21 Crescent Business Park
Enterprise Crescent
Lisburn
BT28 2GN
T: +44 (0)28 9266 4583
E: info@electroautomation.co.uk
electroautomation.co.uk
KCC Group Belfast
KCC Group installs automatic revolving entrance door and full architectural hardware, Riser door and ironmongery package to AIB Head Office refurb project…
KCC Group were nominated to provide an automated entrance system for the main entrance of the AIB Head Office building.
To fulfil the design team’s vision, KCC specified and installed a timeless Tormax fully automatic 3-wing classic revolving door at the main entrance of the building. Further to this, to support the buildings access strategy, they used GEZE Powerturn swing operators to the side of the main revolving entrance, to facilitate easy wheelchair access into and out of the building.
KCC used their modus range of architectural hardware throughout the interior of the project and also provided a concealed frame riser door package using the Selo system for service cupboard access.
“The products chosen and installed for the main entrance will provide an aesthetically-pleasing, secure and low maintenance entrance solution,” explained KCC Associate Director, Tony Campbell. “They will also stand up to the prevailing winds coming off the River Lagan, which is only around the corner from the main entrance of AIB Bank.
“Internally, we provided a full architectural hardware and ironmongery package in stainless steel finish using our Modus range. Our manufacturing company, Elite Doors, in Antrim, also created a bespoke timber doorset solution for this project.” KCC have four main business units: hardware; automatics and access control; facades, partitions and doors; and service and maintenance, which includes fire door inspection. The company rebranded in 2020 from KCC Architectural to KCC Group to better reflect its ability to be a total solutions provider.
“We offer our clients a unique service called KCC 360 – it’s an end-to-end, highly-detailed, project specification and scheduling solution. A solution that helps architects and contractors spend far less time on design, speeding client approval time, and reducing their risk.”
KCC 360 delivers clear, easy-to-follow, fully compliant design submittals, project set submittals and technical submittals. “All the detail, plans, drawings, specifications, warranties, and certifications for every element and component of your project – it takes months of work off the architects”, advised Tony. KCC Group are a trusted partner, not just a supplier. They provide an end-to-end project specific solution, working with clients from initial design and specification stage straight through to on-site installation and ongoing maintenance.
KCC Group Belfast
Unit 20-21A Harbour Court
Heron Road
Sydenham Business Park
Belfast
BT3 9HB
Also offices in Dublin & Cork
T: +44 (0)28 9046 9914
E: belfast@thekccgroup.com
www.thekccgroup.com
Nigel Lynch Associates
Nigel Lynch Associates (NLA) were appointed as Project Manager & Principal Designer to manage the refurbishment of the Belfast AIB Head Office. The project involved transforming 91,000sqft of office space over six floors into a modern office.
Project Manager on behalf of NLA, Conor McCallion, commented, “This was a complex project working in an existing occupied city centre building. Maintaining access and a safe working environment for the client’s staff whilst transforming the building was challenging.”
Conor explained how this was achieved, “As with any project, we recognised the importance of all members of the project team working together collaboratively. We also accepted responsibility for leading the team to achieve this.”
The project was successfully delivered within budget and on time (allowing for Covid delays), and is set to achieve BREEAM Very Good sustainability standard. The client has provided very positive feedback and is delighted with the end result.
T: +44 (0)28 9023 8002
E: info@nl-associates.co.uk
www.nl-associates.co.uk
Ben Wilson and Sons Ltd
Structural and general engineering experts Ben Wilson & Sons supplied the steelworks for the extensive fit-out project at AIB’s Head Office.
“Ben Wilson and Sons Ltd are happy to have been involved with Felix O’Hare & Co Ltd in the AIB project in Belfast,” said Philip Wilson. “We are a family business who began in 1962 and have built up an enviable reputation in the manufacturing of steel work from gates and railings through to fire escapes and security features.”
Specialising in the design, creation and installation of steel gates and railings for both domestic and commercial customers, previous projects include bespoke metalwork for homes, churches, hotels, office, factories, agricultural premises and other commercial properties.
“We have an in-store catalogue with previous gates and railings which we have made and we also carry a range of railheads, components and various steel sizes.
T: +44 (0)28 3026 3342
E: bwilsonandsons@btconnect.com
www.bwilsonandsons-newry.co.uk
Buildtec Acoustics
High noise levels are one of the biggest complaints made by office workers. To ensure this was reduced to a minimum level for the refurbed AIB Head Office, specialist contractor Buildtec Acoustics was approached to provide a high performing stretched fabric acoustic system.
Main contractor, Felix O’Hare brought the firm in at tender stage to provide samples and proposals for the various products they could supply on budget. With non-standard spec stipulated by the architect, Buildtec had to improvise. “This project had a specification of LED lighting to be installed behind the panel at the top and the bottom,” explained Aaron McBrien, Contracts Manager for Buildtec. “We had to create a 25mm shadow gap in our framing to allow for this.
“Whilst onsite we also worked with the architect to design acoustic faced, free-standing TV units which we also installed.”
Commenting on the completed project, Aaron said, “Our relationship with the Felix O’Hare team was excellent. The main contractor had many issues on site due to Covid and lock-downs but all our works were completed as per projected dates.”
T: +353 85 2526536
E: info@buildtec.ie
www.buildtec.ie
Bushell Interiors
Bushell Interiors supplied and installed workstations, ergonomic equipment, storage and lockers to the AIB Head Office refurbishment project in Belfast. Established in 1980, Bushell Interiors speciliase in the design, sale and distribution of lighting and office furniture systems.
The greatest challenge faced during the project was to procure, deliver and install the goods during Covid restrictions. As Head of Sales, Siobhan Chaney explained, “We relied on the strength of our supply chain in Europe, and the experience of our project team which spans over 25 years in order to successfully complete the project. We worked well with the very experienced project team and collaborated throughout in order to deliver the project on time.”
Bushell Interiors focus on supplying quality, fully certified products to their client base at competitive pricing. Their experienced sales team and after sales service have helped build an impressive client portfolio and, most importantly, accomplish high levels of customer satisfaction.
Commenting on the job, Siobhan said, “Felix O’ Hare were a pleasure to work with on this project.
They were approachable, efficient and during a very challenging time, maintained open communication. They were great partners in delivering a successful project.”
T: +353 (0)1 6710044
E: info@bushellinteriors.com
www.bushellinteriors.com
Delta RAC Design Ltd
With a working relationship spanning 17 years, AIB entrusted Delta RAC Design Ltd to design the HVAC systems for the bank’s Head Office building.
The project included replacing the old and inefficient 2-pipe chilled water fan coil units, radiators and BMS with innovative variable air volume 4-pipe heating/cooling fan coil units and heat recovery ventilation systems. Independent AC systems were specified for the Server Rooms and VRV heat recovery heat pumps were specified for the main reception area and meeting rooms. The total cooling capacity of the HVAC systems is 1125kW.
“One of the most challenging aspects to overcome was maintaining the existing services live while each floor was being refurbished,” said Colin Hawthorne, Delta RAC Design Ltd.
Based in Carrickfergus, the Chartered Consulting Engineers specialises in the design of HVAC systems and has successfully completed over 1200 projects over a period of almost 24 years. The company was formed in 1998 and has an enviable reputation for the design of innovative, energy-efficient and cost-effective HVAC systems.
T: +44 (0)28 9335 9090
E: ch@deltarac.co.uk
Envirograf Ireland
Envirograf Ireland supplied its innovative ES/VFR fire protection material to provide AIB’s newly fitted wall panelling with Class 0 surface spread of flame. The unique coating allowed AIB to upgrade wall linings to meet current building regulations.
Envirograf Ireland is the Envirograf office for Ireland based in Bangor, Co. Down. Its range of patented bespoke fire protection products can address complex historic listed buildings, lath and plaster walls and ceilings, and timber panelled doors and linings. They also provide fire stopping for mechanical and electrical services and coatings to steel, plaster and timber. As well as fire protection, the products deliver acoustic, draught and weather seals.
“Our innovative and eco-friendly paints can be applied to ornate ceilings to provide one-hour fire resistance in listed buildings and the upgrading of raised and fielded panel doors in prestige conservation schemes,” said David Brown, Managing Director for Envirograf Ireland.
“It’s a delight to see our products contributing to the long-term sustainability of our existing buildings as well as our environment. By helping to meet building regulations standards as well as protect buildings we also help save lives.”
T: +44 (0)78 9118 1283
E: info@fireprotection-ni.com
www.envirografireland.com
Excel Elevators Ltd
Excel Elevators Ltd was awarded the lift modernisation project for the AIB Head Office, Ann Street – consisting of four lifts in total.
The scope of works included an all new lift control system, wiring package, gearless machines including bespoke mounting rafts and new car interiors. The Ballymena firm also provided LCD position displays on all floors, stainless architraves to landing doors, integrated access control to the main building and open protocol emergency autodial systems.
Established in 2012 by Company Director Paul Porter, Excel Elevators has grown from strength-to-strength over the years due to their strong customer focused approach.
“We maintain all brands of lifts and offer quality products from trusted manufacturers throughout the UK and Europe,” said Paul. “This gives our clients the confidence in recommending our services within the sector time and time again.”
Commenting on the AIB project, Paul added, “We are proud of the quality of the finish achieved on this project and that all works were completed on schedule. The lifts are now compliant, reliable and safe for use for many years to come.”
T: +44 (0)28 2565 1498
E: info@excelelevators.co.uk
www.excelelevators.co.uk
First Choice Upholstery
First Choice Upholstery were tasked with providing the soft furnishings for the private booths at the new AIB Head Office building.
The booths are comprised of fixed seating with upholstered wall and ceiling panels. The specialist skills of First Choice Upholstery are behind the beautiful fabrics and furnishings of many well-known hotels, pubs and clubs throughout Northern Ireland.
Established in 2000, this family-owned business has utilised their extensive skills, knowledge and expertise to produce the exquisite furnishings for some of Northern Ireland’s most popular venues.
Nestled beneath Scrabo Tower in Newtownards, First Choice Upholstery boasts a library of fabrics to satisfy all of their customer’s needs whilst meeting the demands of any job they undertake. Whether it is contemporary elegance or a period style design, their specialist team will advise on any aspect of the job from conception to completion.
“With over twenty years experience, we have a reputation as being one of the best upholstery companies operating in Northern Ireland,” said Jim Lavery of First Choice Upholstery. “We earned that by our proven history of always meeting our deadlines and producing exceptionally high quality work regardless of the complexity of the job.”
T: +44 (0)28 9182 0888
E: firstchoiceupholstery@hotmail.co.uk
www.firstchoiceupholstery.co.uk
J R Tiling
J R Tiling supplied and installed all ceramic wall and floor tiling to the Head Office project at Ann Street, Belfast. The Lisburn-based firm has supplied and installed far-ranging ceramic wall and floor tiling solutions to the construction and private sector for numerous projects, both large and small.
Attention to detail and value for money are the hallmarks of J R Tiling’s specialist tiling contracting service. They aim to provide solutions that are fast, efficient and designed to exceed client expectations.
The complex AIB Head Office project showcases the quality craftsmanship for which this family-run business has become renowned during its 60 years of trading.
Commenting on the completed job for AIB, Roland McCormick, Project Manager for J R Tiling said, “This is another high profile project for us, and we are delighted with the outcome. It is always satisfying to deliver a substantial tiling job.”
T: +44 (0)7759 439735
E: jrtiling777@btinternet.com
McMullan O’Donnell
AIB were banking on creating a smart first impression following the recent refurb of its Belfast Head Office and it’s fair to say that McMullan O’Donnell’s aluminium curtain walling delivered, with interest.
The screens supplied were a High-Rise Curtain Walling System with faceted design, incorporating a silicone-pointed external finish, explained Michael McMullan Head Estimator for McMullan O’Donnell. “We had to leave provision for a revolving door at the entrance area whereby flashings were required to provide a fully weathered unit. It presented some minor challenges. However, we were able to overcome this and were happy with the outcome.”
The Co. Tyrone firm are specialists in the design, manufacture and installation of high-performance architectural systems and have worked on a diverse range of high-profile projects in the Commercial Sector.
Commenting on the completion of the AIB Head Office job, Michael said, “Observing the glazed façade on completion for a renowned organisation in the city centre is aesthetically pleasing and offers great job satisfaction.”
“We have enjoyed a good working relationship with Felix O’Hare for many years now. We both work together striving for honesty, quality and reliability, which is key in success to any project. We look forward to working with them again on future projects.”
MMOD also specialise in uPVC wWindows and doors for one-off houses for the domestic sector, offering their own in-house bespoke window and door designs, adding unique character to homes. They supply and install throughout Ireland, with their Head Office operating out of Benburb Co.Tyrone, and with further offices in Dublin and Showroom in Sligo.
T: +44 (0)28 3754 8791
E: info@mcmullanodonnell.com
www.mcmullanodonnell.com
Space Contract Interiors Ltd
Space Contract Interiors Ltd, provided the glazed partitions, acoustic glazed door sets and shower doors throughout the floors on the AIB Head Office refurbishment.
This involved the install of over 60Lm of the company’s Fusion Frequency single and double glazed screens, 30 Fusion Contempo acoustic doors, specialist back painted glass, and satin glazed shower doors.
In the design stage of the project, Space Contract Interiors worked closely with Todd Architects to assist with the design and specification of these products to meet the needs of the client.
During the project, the Belfast-based firm worked closely with the project team from Felix O’Hare to ensure a smooth and efficient installation under difficult circumstances.
Sales Director, William Allen, said, “It was a pleasure working with Felix O Hare and Todd architects on this project. It presented its challenges, but the final result is an outstanding work environment and we look forward to working with Felix O’Hare on future projects.”
T: +44 (0)28 9045 9922
E: william@spaceci.co.uk
www.spaceci.co.uk
Hanna + Hutchinson Consulting Engineers
Hanna + Hutchinson Consulting Engineers provided the civil and structural input for the refurbishment of the AIB Head Office. This involved reviewing the archive civil and structural drawings for the existing concrete-framed building and assessment of existing floor and roof construction for new loadings from plant on the roof and new walls. New openings also needed to be formed in the concrete floors to take new ventilation ductwork connecting all floors to new air handling units on the roof.
One particularly challenging aspect was the removal of an existing reinforced concrete staircase between the first and fourth floor and infilling the stair opening. H+H Engineers had to work closely with main contractor Felix O’Hare to agree the required temporary propping to facilitate the stair demolition safely and without damage to the surrounding structure.
Throughout the construction stage H+H Engineers worked closely with the Felix O’Hare team both to ensure the modifications to the existing structure and installation of new drainage was carried out safely and to quickly resolve any new structure challenges, which were discovered as the existing building was being stripped out.
T:+44 (0)28 9260 2475
M: +44 (0)779 0020342
E: John@hannaandhutchinson.com
www.hannaandhutchinson.com
