Arkay Windows and AluK have collaborated to deliver a stunning glazing solution for the prestigious £53 million Escapade Silverstone development.
Nestled in the heart of the legendary British motorsport circuit, this luxury project comprises 60 bespoke villas, that are said to blend cutting-edge design with ‘technical mastery’ to offer motorsport enthusiasts an immersive experience.
The successful partnership between Arkay Windows and AluK reflects both companies’ expertise in delivering high-performance glazing solutions for some of the UK’s most iconic developments.
A landmark development
The Escapade Silverstone project stands as a groundbreaking achievement, not only for its close proximity to one of the world’s most iconic racetracks but also for its innovative architectural design.
Overlooking the thrilling sections of Copse, Maggots, and Becketts corners, the villas cater to motorsport fans seeking luxury and immersion in the sport they love.
According to the project’s architects, Twelve Architects, the design concept is based on ‘slipstreaming’, with the villas’ upper floors seemingly pulled in the wake of the lower levels, mirroring the high-speed dynamics of motorsport.
This unique design makes the villas a stunning addition to Silverstone’s landscape. For Arkay Windows, the challenge lay in delivering glazing solutions that could not only meet the architectural vision but also withstand the technical demands of the racetrack’s environment.
Precision and collaboration
Arkay Windows played a pivotal role in the success of the Escapade Silverstone project. Tasked with overseeing the installation of over 3,200m² of premium glazing systems, Arkay’s technical expertise was instrumental in selecting the right products to meet the project’s specific requirements.
Working closely with AluK, Arkay ensured that the chosen systems, including SC156 sliding doors, C70S windows, and SL52 curtain walling, would fulfil the brief while delivering both aesthetic impact and technical precision.
Key highlights of the glazing installation included:
- 260 C70S windows
- 268 SL52 curtain walling screens
- 51 SC156 sliding doors
Given the villas’ close proximity to the racetrack– just 1m from the circuit – acoustic performance was critical. Arkay utilised 46mm acoustic laminated glazing units, each weighing 74kg per square metre, to deliver an overall acoustic rating of 45dB, ensuring residents can enjoy the racing atmosphere without the constant intrusion of noise.
Technical excellence
The technical demands of the project called for an advanced glazing solution that could deliver on both thermal and acoustic performance while maintaining the sleek, modern design the architects envisioned.
AluK’s systems proved to be the perfect fit, offering the durability and efficiency required for such a high-profile development.
The AluK C70S window system was chosen for its ability to handle the heavy-duty glass specifications, while the SC156 sliding doors were rigorously tested in-house to ensure durability and smooth operation.
The result was a glazing solution that not only enhanced the visual appeal of the villas but also delivered on performance. With U-values as low as 1.4 W/m²K, the glazing provided excellent thermal insulation, contributing to the development’s BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating.
AluK’s systems, combined with Arkay’s fabrication expertise, resulted in glazing that minimised external noise while maximising visual clarity, allowing residents to fully immerse themselves in the motorsport experience.
Overcoming challenges
The Escapade Silverstone project wasn’t without its challenges. The timeline for completion was tight, with the British Grand Prix looming.
The complexity of the site, compounded by tight access and proximity to the racetrack, is said to have demanded meticulous planning and coordination across all trades.
Arkay’s on-site team worked closely with HG Construction and other subcontractors to ensure the glazing installation remained on schedule, despite adverse weather conditions and other logistical challenges.
Specialist glass lifting equipment was employed to manoeuvre the heavy glazing units into place, ensuring both safety and precision in the installation process.
According to Arkay, its ability to adapt to these challenges highlights its expertise in managing complex projects and is a testament to its ‘meticulous planning and execution’.
Why Arkay Windows Stands Out
For Arkay Windows, its role in the Escapade Silverstone project underlines its position as a leading supplier of high-performance glazing solutions.
A longstanding relationship with HG Construction, built on previous successes such as the Canada Street development, was also pivotal in securing its involvement in this prestigious project.
The SC156 sliding doors, with their slim sightlines, provided the villas with stunning, uninterrupted views of the racetrack, while the C70S windows and SL52 curtain walling offered thermal and acoustic performance that ensured comfort and sustainability.
For Arkay, this project demonstrates a capacity to deliver on high-specification, complex developments, showcasing its expertise in both residential and commercial projects.
Looking ahead
The Escapade Silverstone project has set a new standard in luxury residential development, blending high-performance glazing with cutting-edge design. For Arkay Windows, the project represents more than just another successful installation; it is a symbol of its commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in fenestration.
By working closely with AluK, Arkay says it was able to deliver a glazing solution that not only met the technical requirements of the site but also added ‘significant aesthetic and functional value’.
As the villas at Silverstone open their doors to motorsport enthusiasts, Arkay says that its role in this iconic development will be remembered as ‘a key contributor to its success’, setting a benchmark for future luxury projects in the fenestration industry.
