Atrium Steelwork & Acoustic Cladding to Rooftop Plant Enclosures

The project at the London School of Economics Marshall Building involved the design, manufacture, and installation of new structural steelwork, including atrium glazing supports at 9th floor level, rooftop plant enclosure supports, and aluminium cladding. It improved fire safety with a smoke extraction system on the Level 9 terrace and atrium rooflight, while preserving the original architectural design.

Key works included:

• Erecting a temporary roof structure
• Removing planters
• Installing lifting beams and new rooflight steelwork
• Crane removal and reinstatement of atrium glazing
• Fitting a plenum at the atrium top for efficient smoke extraction, ensuring clear evacuation routes and fire regulation compliance
• Fabricating and installing acoustic aluminium cladding and baffles to reduce atrium noise, especially from stair users

We designed, manufactured, and installed support steels for rooftop plant enclosures housing essential MEP equipment (e.g., HVAC units, adiabatic dry coolers, air handling units, and associated services).

These provide weather protection, security, and acoustic screening.The supports integrate with the existing roof structure for stability and maintenance access. Completed alongside Level 9 smoke extraction upgrades, the work maintained architectural aesthetics and rooftop terrace views, while enhancing energy efficiency, building performance, and compliance with modern MEP standards without compromising design integrity.