Claddings

The enclosures to the large sheds require particular attention to achieve performance and economy. Large uninterrupted areas of wall cladding demand clear simple statements and precise detailing.

Profiled sheeting is an obvious choice of material for cladding large areas because of the size of sheets which are manufactured, the weathering qualities and the cost. Used vertically or horizontally, the depth of profile is chosen to suit the required span and the shape to create the preferred visual effect. The choice has increased dramatically since the early days of corrugated iron to offer intricate steel profiles which catch the light on the one hand and deep troughs which can span up to 12m on the other.

Profiled sheeting can be used in a range of ways to create different aspects.

At IBM Greenford, Foster Associates used a bold horizontal profile in continuous lengths for the long side walls, whilst at the new draught beer department for Greene King at Bury St Edmunds Michael Hopkins Architects developed a system for modulating the horizontal sheeting into panels, with the use of a specially designed 'top hat' extrusion.

Panel systems can also be used to form the enclosure.

Other popular options tend to be panel based systems of which there are many available. These range from rainscreen systems to bonded panels, and from smooth skins to rough textures. It is up to the designer to choose the most appropriate cladding to suit the particular requirements.