The use of an innovative expanded metal sheet for an unprecedented architectural renovation.

After the success of Piccadilly expanded metal during the AIA 2018 in New York, discover the potential of this type of expanded metal through its use in a very ambitious and important architectural project.

This is the renovation of the Sunset Walk at the Central Milton Keynes Shopping Centre, Great Britain. This structure extends for 1 km in length, 116 m in width and houses 200 shops. Its restyling affects less than a quarter of the entire surface and is concentrated in the north and south entrance halls.

In particular, the aim of the renovation project is to offer the client a visual as well as conceptual experience, as if it were part of a concept store, characterized by the elegance, dynamism and luxury of design.

To make this effect, the escamotage used is a double suspended structure, marked by elements similar to kites, hanging from wire ropes. In particular, the work consists of an aluminum tubular system, built with the help of laser technology and filled with expanded metal.

The choice of Piccadilly is not casual: innovative and with a catchy texture, it is perfect for a contemporary urban architecture, with a touch of glamor and geometric. The realization follows a detailed drawing created on the computer, accompanied by a 3D mitred welding. The framework and mesh were grit-blasted and polyester powder coated Aztec gold.

The result is a sort of complex sculptural puzzle, the installation of which required a huge commitment from a highly specialized and equipped work team.

Light plays a fundamental role in the final result of the work, enhancing its aesthetic performance. For this reason, the architecture firm Rawls & Co. has collaborated with designer Graham Rollins of Light Design International (LDI). The approach adopted allowed to rebalance the perception of spaces and their luminosity starting from the entrance halls. From these it develops a strong identity and visual presence that envelops and involves the customer in a unique and great impact experience.

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