London - RADA

DRAMATIC FLUE PERFORMANCE TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT RADA
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Stainless steel flues from A1 Bridge Flue Systems have added a dramatic touch to the recently refurbished Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
The RADA buildings recently underwent extensive alteration, with space for building services a major challenge. Ventilation for the George Bernard Shaw Theatre, located in the building’s basement, was provided via the flues which were chosen because they have a four-hour fire rating - eliminating the need for fire dampers.

The flues also create a striking perimeter wall on the upper floors, with glazing linking the exposed steel.

The contract for the flues was worth £40,000 and was awarded through Rosser and Russell, London.

Mike Clare commented: “Our flues are not normally used for ventilation, but appearance was everything on this project as the flues were left exposed throughout the building. In some cases they form a feature in their own right - for example the seating in the vending area is arranged around the flues.

“All the flues are of uniform appearance with special lengths manufactured so that joints would be identical on each level”.