The Lumen, Newcastle Helix

The brand new flagship office space, designed from the ground up to cater for the flexible demands of modern business, offers over 100,000 sq ft of Grade A offices, providing modern workspace for over 1,200 people in the science, technology and knowledge based sectors.

Bespoke column casings and feature pressings were used throughout this project. Initially designed by the Ryder architects, Sotech contributed on both a design and fabrication basis to engineer support framing and bracing. This was vital to the outcome.

Whilst the project was originally specified in ACM A2, due to the requirement for tight folds and sharp finishing, the client requested this was changed to solid aluminium at the outset. However, the details could not change at that stage and so advanced fabrication techniques by Sotech ensured the finish was not compromised.

Colour and tone have been introduced to give the building richness and depth. The earthy copper tone of the building catches the sunlight, changing its look and feel throughout the day.  Sotech worked closely with Axalta and other supply chain partners to develop a bespoke paint formulation for the project.

“The expression and rigour Ryder envisaged for the Lumen façade has been realised well above expectation. This could not have been achieved without the fantastic collaborative effort by both the design and constriction teams  to ensure the highest quality. Great effort by all.” Peter Lea, Architect at Ryder. 

The project provides a dramatic addition to the skyline of Newcastle that also includes The View Student Accommodation, Downing Plaza where Sotech supplied over 2000sqm of Optima TFC in a 70% gloss PPC finish in 7 varying shades of blue and The Core, Science Central which included a bespoke version of our Optima FC Rainscreen anodised in Regency Gold 2.

Located on the Newcastle Science Central site, one of the largest urban regeneration projects of its kind in the UK. The building is designed to BREEAM Excellent standard and has an EPC rating of A.

“This was a challenging project throughout design and manufacturing, but the final product speaks for itself. An excellent result for all teams involved.  The Lumen really does light up the Newcastle Helix.” Graham Todd, Director at Sotech.