Background
The Fortius Group is the UK’s largest single orthopaedic and sports injury medicine group in the UK. The project involved the creation of a new surgical centre with pre and post-op facilities and three ultra-clean theatres, across two floors behind a retained Georgian façade in Bentinck Street, in the heart of Marylebone, Central London.
Maquet, part of the Getinge Group, were the primary equipment suppliers and the management contractor on the project. Frank Shaw Associates were appointed as the architects who developed the design for the Fortius First Surgical Centre, as well as achieving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, which is the highest sustainability credential.
The project focussed on high quality environment through careful spatial planning, lighting and materials and the patient experience from arrival to departure was a key project driver.
Project
The original windows on the Georgian property were noticeably worn, along with allowing a considerable draught and high levels of noise ingress. The building fell within a conservation area which meant the façade had to be preserved, thus making the project a little more challenging when attempting to create an environment fit for purpose and aiding in patient recovery.
The project saw the introduction of secondary glazing to the front elevation of the building by company Selectaglaze, doing this enhanced the acoustic performance and thermal retention of the primary glazing.
Between Glass Blinds™
Between Glass Blinds are noted for their innovative, versatile and maintenance-free integrated blinds which are ideal for healthcare environments.
30 BGB Magnetically operated, Tilt only units were supplied to Selectaglaze, housed inside their flush-frame, side hung casements.
Between Glass Blinds Integrated Venetian blinds were supplied to Selectaglaze for the Fortius Clinic project. BGB units are hermetically sealed between two panes of glass with magnetic controls to avoid an “infection bridge” into the glazing gap, which protects the blind from damage, dirt and grime. Meaning the blind is hygienically excellent, meets the requirements for clinical infection control, never needs cleaning and is completely maintenance free.
Between Glass Blinds magnetic units are completely cordless and operated via powerful, neat and unobtrusive sliding magnetic blocks located around the perimeter of the unit. The magnets control the operation of the blinds with ease, allowing the service user to tilt the blinds in one slick and easy motion with its functional and stylish design. This gives the patient full control when privacy is needed or to reduce glare and sunlight keeping the room at a more moderate temperature.
The installation was a success and the thermal and noise enhancements can already be noticed in the rooms.
“Whilst searching for a relatively local manufacturer of integral blinds we came across Between Glass Blinds. After reviewing their website and speaking with them we were happy that their product would be a great fit on the Fortius Clinic project.
“The high level of technical support and advice provided by BGB was greatly appreciated, as was their customer support and communications. Our Production Team have always provided positive feedback in relation to the deliveries and quality of the Between Glass Blinds units.
“Between Glass Blinds are now our preferred supplier for integral blinds.”
Duncan Saunders, Production Manager – Selectaglaze
For more information visit:
https://www.selectaglaze.co.uk/case-studies/healthcare/fortius-clinic-bentink-street