Eyrise dynamic liquid crystal glazing has contributed to an improved energy performance certificate (EPC) for the iconic Grade II listed headquarters of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) in London.
Following the recent completion of major renovation works at 195 Piccadilly to enhance facilities and double the building’s capacity so it can increase its charitable programme, BAFTA’s certification has been upgraded to a B.
Built in 1883, the prestigious location has served as BAFTA’s headquarters since 1976. Despite having increased the glass surface of the building, the upgraded EPC rating is in line with new build standards in the UK.
BAFTA partnered with glass specialist Eyrise to provide instant solar shading for a newly created fourth floor. 82 liquid crystal windows of varying shapes and sizes were specially produced and installed to glaze two restored Victorian rooflights. Known as the Richard Attenborough Rooms, the floor provides a members’ area and space for exhibitions and events.
Benedetti Architects designed the redevelopment of the BAFTA building. During the seven year renovation, the hidden rooflights were revealed for the first time since 1976 when they were covered to create a dark space for a 227-seat cinema.
“At the start of the project, our Victorian heritage building had old technology and original features which leaked heat, giving us a high EPC rating. Putting in a fully glazed roof was a challenge if we wanted to concentrate on sustainability,” said Pauline Campbell, BAFTA’s Head of Property. “The new rooflight structures developed by Eyrise can automatically adjust the shading of the glazing to reduce solar gain, resulting in a lower cooling requirement. This is controlled so that the solar gain can be limited when not needed but can also be actively allowed to heat the space, when heating is required. Working the Eyrise glazing into our project ensured a UK EPC rating of B48, which is comparative to a new build, something that would never have been possible without the technology.”
Proprietary Licrivision liquid crystal technology enables Eyrise glass to be tinted to provide instant solar shading without compromising on natural daylight. The windows provide lightwellness – visual comfort, thermal regulation and colour neutrality – for occupants, while also helping to reduce energy consumption.
“BAFTA has successfully delivered a relevant and exciting refurbishment that is not only aesthetically exquisite but future focused,” said Celine Glipa, CEO of Eyrise. “While traditional glazing has historically lowered a building’s energy efficiency, implementing the latest developments in glass technology has helped this world-leading arts charity reduce its ecological footprint and create a sustainable centre of excellence for the stars of tomorrow.”
BAFTA works to support and promote the next generation of performers and break down barriers that make it hard for talented individuals to build careers in the creative industries.
BAFTA’s President HRH The Duke of Cambridge attended the new building at the end of January, to hear more about its ongoing support to develop the next generation of talent and launch the expansion of the arts charity’s learning and new talent development programmes.
About eyrise®
Eyrise dynamic liquid crystal glazing from Merck enables premium architecture through advanced technology and human-centred design.
Powered by proprietary Licrivision liquid crystal technology, Eyrise’s solar shading glass creates beautiful, light-filled buildings while improving energy efficiencies. Windows can be tinted to provide instant solar shading without compromising on natural daylight, providing lightwellness – visual comfort, thermal regulation and colour neutrality – for occupants on demand.
Offering an innovative approach for agile interior space planning in public and commercial venues, Eyrise’s instant privacy glass provides secure working and social environments that maximise natural daylight. Fully transparent dynamic liquid crystal glass partitions can be switched on demand to create a private space.
Architects and building designers worldwide use Eyrise to create premium glass structures and facades. Recent projects include BAFTA’s headquarters in London, the German Pavilion at the World Expo in Dubai, Orkla City in Oslo, FC Campus in Karlsruhe, Germany, and the Niemeyer Sphere in Leipzig, designed by modern architecture pioneer Oscar Niemeyer.
Eyrisewon the innovation award at Material Prize (MaterialPreis) 2020 and was named CES 2021 innovation award honouree.
About BAFTA
BAFTA – the British Academy of Film and Television Arts – is a world-leading independent arts charity that brings the very best work in film, games and television to public attention and supports the growth of creative talent in the UK and internationally. Through its Awards ceremonies and year-round programme of learning events and initiatives – which includes workshops, masterclasses, scholarships, lectures and mentoring schemes in the UK, USA and Asia – BAFTA identifies and celebrates excellence, discovers, inspires and nurtures new talent, and enables learning and creative collaboration. For more, visit www.bafta.org. BAFTA is a registered charity (no. 216726).
BAFTA 195 Piccadilly, owned by the Crown Estate, is a Grade II listed building that has been BAFTA’s headquarters since 1976. It was originally built in 1883 as a gallery space for the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours, a medium then overlooked by the neighbouring Royal Academy of Arts.
About Benedetti Architects
The redevelopment work at BAFTA’s headquarters was designed by internationally renowned Benedetti Architects, founded by Renato Benedetti in 2016 following 20 years of award-winning success as McDowell+Benedetti Architects.