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Fire rated glass partitions transform St Hilda’s new campus at Oxford University

The University of Oxford has recently completed the first stage of the redevelopment of St Hildas college. The major building programme of the accommodation facilities for students and staff aims to significantly enhance the experience of St Hilda’s as a place to study, live and work. Set on the riverside of this prestigious university, the project includes a gym, multi-faith room, and academic support facilities, perfectly reflecting St Hilda’s commitment to inclusivity. Our glass partitions helped create a modern, open design that welcomes both students and staff. Alongside architects Mitchell Eley Gould and main contractor Beard Construction we built a bright and stylish space where students can embrace university life.   

Location
Oxford

Architect
Mitchell Eley Gould

Contractor
Beard Construction

Fire safety key for student accommodation 

Fire safety was a key design requirement for St Hilda’s new accommodation, ensuring the safety of both students and staff. With this in mind, we installed Technishield 50 fire screens and doors across the four floors of this stunning space. On the ground floor, we installed several Technishield 50 Leaf and half door sets, leading off from the central atrium. Installed with both fire rated, and non-fire rated glass this system offers a stylish addition to the fit-out. The 30/0 fire rated doors installed on the ground floor deliver 30 minutes integrity, meeting both the visual and practical demands of this stylish fit-out. 

Furthermore, Technishield 50 non-fire rated screens were installed throughout the remaining three floors of the design. Surrounding the central atrium, these attractive glazed partitions allow light to flow throughout, creating a bright and open fit-out. Continued across each of the floors, it also offers a fantastic 360o view of the design. The fire protection of the design was reinforced with the integration of automated over panel windows. Fully integrated within the BMS, the windows can be opened or closed remotely in the event of a fire, therefore increasing fire safety for occupants.  

Acoustics for harmonious living and learning 

Acoustics play an important role in educational environments, especially in communal areas such as student accommodation. Therefore, Revolution 100 double glazed partitions were installed throughout the north wing at St Hilda’s. Located on the ground and first floors, this acoustic system creates a collection of private offices and study rooms. Delivering Rw51dB, with two layers of 12.8mm thick acoustic laminate panels, this glass partitioning system offers impressive acoustic performance. Whether it is for a confidential meeting or private study, our stunning glass partitions enhance the open feel of the design whilst maintaining acoustic privacy.  

Furthermore, an interesting design feature of the ground floor was the addition of a bespoke size Elite Aero pocket sliding door. The single leaf soft closing door utilises this dynamic system to create a pass-through into the finance office. Achieving Rw39dB with 12mm toughened glass, this elegant door also provides the ideal sound insulation from the busy main atrium.  

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