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The new QNAP UK headquarters at Drakes Meadow in Swindon is nearing completion, with a series of distinctive cloud-shaped canopies giving the development a landmark quality.
The existing 1,100m² office building and new 90m² storage facility are connected by cloud canopies.
Designed by O/I Design Studio, the project brings together the refurbishment of an existing 1,100m² office building and a new 90m² storage facility. Rather than extending the original building, the design places the storage facility separately, using a series of canopies to connect the two.
Dales Fabrications supplied a range of bespoke aluminium products for the project, including a Stepped Fascia and Soffit system for the canopies, Cladding, Meridian Coping, and Flashings. All finished in RAL 9010 Matt Pure White, the products provide a consistent, modern appearance across the development.
Canopies inspired by the landscape
The cloud-shaped canopies are among the most eye-catching features of the scheme. Their curved profiles create a sheltered route between the office and storage building, bringing the two structures together without the need to expand the existing office.
Their form takes inspiration from the site’s former wild meadow landscape, reflecting the wider design approach, which places an emphasis on the relationship between the workplace and its surroundings.
Greenery, landscaping and natural forms feature throughout the development, helping to create an environment where indoor and outdoor spaces work together. The canopies contribute to this approach, combining a practical function with a distinctive architectural feature.
Bespoke Aluminium brings the design together
Creating the canopies required a bespoke aluminium Fascia and Soffit system, designed and manufactured by Dales to accommodate the project’s unique requirements.
The new QNAP UK Headquarters at Drakes Meadow, Swindon, featuring Dales bespoke Stepped Fascia Soffit, Cladding, Meridian Coping, and Flashings
Alongside the canopy system, Dales supplied aluminium Cladding, Meridian Coping, and Flashings, helping to complete the external detailing. The consistent white finish ties these elements together, allowing the canopy profiles to stand out while maintaining a cohesive appearance across the buildings.
The project highlights the flexibility of bespoke aluminium in contemporary architecture, where carefully considered detailing can play an important role in both the appearance and practical performance of a building.
Aluminium Solutions from Dales Fabrications
With nearly 50 years of experience in manufacturing aluminium building products, Dales Fabrications works with architects, specifiers, and contractors to develop solutions for a wide range of projects.
Dales aluminium products are all finished in RAL 9010 Matt Pure White, providing a consistent appearance across the development.
Their product range includes Fascia and Soffit systems, Solar Shading, Rainscreen Panels, Copings and Rainwater Goods, including Gutters and Downpipes. In-house design and technical support are available to help develop bespoke solutions to meet individual project requirements.
To find out more about Dales Fabrications and their range of aluminium building products, visit www.dales-eaves.co.uk.