And the winner is…

Eyrise will provide instant solar shading at Bafta 195 Piccadilly, as part of a refurbishment to improve facilities and double the building’s capacity, enabling Bafta to increase its charitable programme.

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts is installing recently developed smart liquid crystal windows to glaze two restored Victorian rooflights on a newly constructed top floor at its grade two listed headquarters in London.

Proprietary Licrivision liquid crystal technology enables Eyrise glass to be tinted to provide solar shading immediately without compromising on natural daylight. The windows will provide ‘lightwellness’ (visual comfort, thermal regulation and colour neutrality) for occupants on demand, while also helping to reduce energy consumption.

“New technologies are helping us transform and grow the infrastructure of our headquarters which in turn will enable us to expand our important work in supporting emerging and under-represented talent,” Kevin Price, Bafta’s chief operating officer, said.

“By raising the roof and re-integrating the rooflights with Eyrise’s innovative glazing, we are able to open up a bright new space and deliver a greater variety of initiatives, learning events and activities.”

The refurbishment will reveal the hidden rooflights, built in 1883, for the first time since 1975 when they were covered to create a dark space for a 227-seat cinema.

“This major project is a testament to Bafta’s progressive vision,” Celine Glipa, managing director of Eyrise, said. “By integrating the latest technology to breathe new life and light into this iconic landmark, it is creating a superior stage for emerging talent.”

Designed by Benedetti Architects, work on the project has already begun and is due to be completed in 2021.