2004 was a pivotal year in the UK, with events that shaped the nation’s political landscape, social policies, and cultural development. London officially submitted its ultimately successful bid to host the 2012 Summer Olympics, Kelly Holmes (now Dame) won two gold medals for Team GB at the 2004 Athens Olympics in the 800m and 1500m events and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban was entertaining fans at cinemas. The Civil Partnership Act, and the fox hunting ban all pointed towards a more modern and progressive change for the country.
Meanwhile, in York, restoration efforts continued with York Minster’s intricate stonework and stained glass, particularly the Great East Window and efforts to improve flood defences and river management were ongoing, following significant flooding events in York in previous years. As one of the busiest railway stations in northern England, York Railway Station underwent renovations and upgrades in 2004, and the Yorkshire Museum and Gardens benefitted from conservation work and improvements. As home to the University of York, there was a strong focus on developing the city’s profile as an educational centre, with ongoing discussions about expanding university facilities and student accommodation during this period. At this time The York Early Music Festival and other classical music events attracted both local and international performers, reinforcing York’s cultural scene.
York continued to grow both in terms of population and tourism. York City Council worked on improving roads and public transport systems to handle increased demand, as well as exploring initiatives to reduce congestion in the historic city centre, including park-and-ride schemes and more pedestrian-friendly areas.
On November 29th, 2004, Tony Dwyer, who had been in the solar shading and architectural louvre business for over 30 years since he became an apprentice in the industry at the age of 16, would officially launch his own business from a modest office and manufacturing facility in Sherrif Hutton, York.
It’s All in the Name
This exciting new venture would be named ‘Solinear’.
The name “Solinear” is a blend of two significant elements: “Sol” – derived from the Latin word for “sun” and is often associated with solar energy, sunlight, or environmental considerations and “Linear” – relating to lines or something that follows a straight path, often used to imply precision, structure, or design.
Combined, the name “Solinear” suggests a focus on solar solutions and architectural design incorporating clean, structured, and efficient elements. As Solinear would be specialising in solar shading, façade systems, and architectural metalwork, the name would reflect the company’s emphasis on sustainable, solar-conscious, and precision-driven design solutions.
Solinear begins.
The knowledge, experience and insight that Tony gained since his time as an apprentice, enabled him to bring a strong, consistent and innovatory approach to the industry. Offering a personal touch, tailored service and practical solutions formed from his decades of theoretical and practical understanding of solar shading, architectural louvres and sound reduction technology, Tony felt it was time he formed a family business utilising his strong ethos, knowledge and expertise.
Solinear was founded with a vision to deliver high-quality, bespoke architectural solutions, particularly in the area of solar shading and façade systems, focusing on innovation, blending technical precision with aesthetic design.
Timing could not have been more crucial – emerging in the early 2000s, at a time when energy efficiency and sustainability were becoming key considerations in modern architecture, this positioning allowed Solinear to quickly establish itself as a trusted partner for architects, builders, and developers.
Sustainable Solutions
As regulations around energy efficiency tightened across Europe and beyond, Solinear’s products began to gain more recognition.
By integrating environmental responsibility into designs—such as offering sustainable materials and energy-saving solutions—Solinear not only addressed market demands but also anticipated future trends in green architecture.
Since its inception, Solinear has grown into a leading provider of sustainable, innovative products that enhance building aesthetics while improving energy efficiency.
New Leadership, New Tagline, New Premises and the New Normal
Solinear had a new tagline – Specialist Architectural Façade Engineers (SAFE) – and was going from strength to strength; Tony’s vision had been realised and after 15 years at the helm, he decided to take a back seat. Tony’s son, Tom Dwyer and his brother, Jack, would continue the family business. The Solinear team has gradually changed over the 16 years and whilst it was sad to see Tony go, Tom and Jack Dwyer, have been raised with Solinear so the team knew they were in safe hands.
Those who have joined Solinear and then moved on to new roles including Jack, have brought their creativity, observations and unique insights to the business and left with a greater understanding and respect for the industry and as Tony was an apprentice himself and imparted everything he knew to Tom, Solinear recognises the importance of apprenticeships. Solinear has been delighted to offer opportunities to those wishing to learn more whilst gaining vital hands-on experience in design, manufacturing and engineering whilst bringing their knowledge, enthusiasm and fresh ideas to the Solinear team.
The Solinear team was growing and thanks to its reputation and mounting popularity, Solinear’s projects were increasing in volume and quantity, so Tom tentatively decided it was time to move to larger premises. Sheriff Hutton Industrial Park had been Solinear’s home for many years and, as larger units became available just around the corner, it was a logical solution to remain on the industrial estate.
Remarkably, Tom was only 29 when he took over the running of the family business but his level-headed and mature approach would stand him in good stead for Solinear’s expansion as well as one of the most challenging periods in the story of Solinear and indeed, humanity.
Tom had only been at the helm of Solinear a matter of months when the Covid-19 outbreak began.
Solinear had survived Brexit, economic downturn and uncertainty in the past but this was a totally unexpected and unfamiliar situation. In addition to already difficult circumstances, muddled information and lacklustre guidelines regarding lockdowns, tiers and the construction industry, made matters worse. A number of employees would work from home, but Tom would have to furlough some staff and make difficult decisions whilst witnessing a number of construction companies sadly having to cease trading altogether – a frightening prospect for Tom, who would do everything he could to avoid the same fate for Solinear.
He scrutinised and minimised every aspect of the business in order to continue functioning whilst also maintaining the safety of the team. Solinear would release regular Covid updates and report any changes of circumstances so that clients were assured the business was still functioning, although at a much-reduced capacity – Solinear depended, like never before, on the unswerving patience and understanding of its incredible clients. This was the “new normal”.
It was also a time to reflect on and thank emergency staff and keyworkers, volunteers and charity workers for their unwavering determination and dedication to provide vital services to the public throughout that extraordinary time.
Pre-Covid, Solinear was more accustomed to manufacturing feature facades rather than face shields but it was felt that due to the critical shortfall in protective visors at the time – crucial in the battle against the spread of COVID-19 – Solinear could assist with the 3D printing of these vital pieces of equipment. The brilliant idea was proposed by one of Solinear’s welders, Elliot Headley, who subsequently discussed his proposition with Andy Moore, Solinear’s design manager. Andy promptly contacted David Young, the Director of interACT & Connect LTD – a York based enterprise, raising funds to help pay for materials to create face shields supporting frontline workers in the fight against Covid-19 – and production began soon after.
By the end of April 2020, Solinear had produced 700 face shields.
In time, the country would hesitantly begin to function again and Solinear emerged slightly shaken by the experience but, thanks to Tom, the team and very understanding clients, determined to return to its pre-Covid glory.
In light of the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and mental health within the construction industry already a concern, Solinear took the decision to join the Mindful Employer Charter ensuring that it provides mental wellbeing support for employees.
Moving with the times
Never one for complacency, Solinear understands the importance of innovating and developing products as well as maintaining and updating information to benefit clients whilst also sustaining that competitive edge and advantage. Engaging with potential partners across the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) community is one of the principles Solinear was founded on, and for this reason the company launched SolBIM in 2016; a dedicated library for building information modelling (BIM) files, which is open to all via a free private log in. The library has acted as a valuable resource for anyone assessing the use of solar shading in their projects, providing a tangible, visual representation of each product in 3D form, allowing for easier integration into the planning process.
Ensconced in the digital age, Solinear has embraced the overwhelming reach of social media, which has greatly altered over the last 16 years, as a tool for not only circulating the Solinear brand but to connect with the public and share the everyday life of the business – the team, projects, celebrations, awards and even baked goodies! Solinear is currently present on Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook and is always on the look-out for the next big outlet to spread the Solinear brand and personality.Adopting social media as a sales tool has proved beneficial, however, the Solinear website has served the company well too but as products change and develop so must the website and it is currently being overhauled and streamlined making it easier for architects, specifiers and clients to find products and relevant information.
Solinear is proud of its pioneering manufacturing methods including the adoption of 3D printing which has proven to be a revolutionary approach by the company.
Solinear managing director, Tom Dwyer added “In the sixteen years that the business has existed research, science and technology has evolved; styles and materials that dictate how we design and manufacture our products have changed and, as stagnation and complacency are life-limiting to a business, Solinear has taken notice and responded.
Solinear developed two new revolutionary Aquarius perimeter louvre frame options – supplying factory assembled louvre panels that interface with curtain walling glazing rebates of any ‘equivalent glass’ thickness or with an external frame flange to enable direct fixing into masonry, clad or rendered structural openings, providing a weathered detail without visible sealant lines.
This is just one example, from many, highlighting Solinear’s desire to develop and refine. Over the years the Solinear team has constantly strived to improve products to deliver more advanced systems as well as offering a service that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of clients.”
As with any business, Solinear’s success relies on satisfied clients – so meticulous attention to detail, a quick response and exceptional organisation are key. Which is why, as the business evolved, expanded and modernised a more advanced approach to customer relationship management was required and Purple Potato’s CRM services offered the perfect, tailored solution.
The ability to access customer details and interactions, design briefs, drawings and notes from a single cloud-based source means that any member of the Solinear team, from marketing to designers to project managers to directors, could access all documentation relating to Solinear projects, from anywhere in the world.Duplicated or obsolete information, undecipherable notes on crumpled scraps of paper, mislaid names and accidentally deleted emails – the CRM has eliminated these banes of many a business and Solinear’s esteemed clients certainly won’t be subjected to such tedium.
Accreditations, Awards and Recognition
Solinear is proud to have been the recipient of multiple accreditations and awards solidifying its reputation of being a name to trust.
Our reward for what we do is a satisfied customer and a project to be proud of, but we always appreciate being recognised by judges, peers and industry experts for our work – acknowledged for our achievements and identified as leaders in our field. Solinear is proud to have fortified its reputation by being Alcumus Safe Contractor, CHAS (Health & Safety and Advanced) and Constructionline (Gold) accredited.
The latter pre-qualifies its suppliers to government standards and maintains relationships with a range of industry, ePurchasing and government partners to ensure that it remains relevant to procurement professionals within the construction industry. Constructionline’s useful services and database allows buyers to view products, company details and history with ease, improving the tender process thus making it simpler to specify Solinear systems and services.
Alcumus Safe Contractor offers protection against the many unforeseen problems that can arise in the construction industry providing peace of mind not to just to Solinear but its clients too.
Solinear understands the importance of ensuring that it offers customers security with the most robust and durable systems available – putting in place the requirements that allow the company to complete projects to the highest standards and with complete confidence of a job well done. Solinear’s success was celebrated by Alcumus Safe Contractor in an editorial feature highlighting the company’s achievements.
Solinear has also been awarded CHAS accreditation, contributing to a robust health and safety assessment regime with its contractors and staff. Alongside Alcumus Safe Contractor, it helps anticipate and manage risk within construction projects.
With regular, independent auditing to achieve ISO 9001 certification, alongside Constructionline, CHAS and Safe Contractor affiliation, Solinear has cemented its compliance with the industry standard of quality systems. ISO 9001 benefits Solinear’s clients with the guarantee of superior quality products and service with efficient, assured delivery and a ‘right first-time’ ethos.
From the very beginning, Tony Dwyer (Founder of Solinear – retired) has been a keen advocate for demonstrating Solinear’s dedication and commitment to quality.
Tony commented “ ISO 9001 helps to improve tender processes, validate our work ethic and reassure clients that Solinear’s dedication to ensure professionalism and standards of work at all times is absolute….
These services are offered by Solinear as part of its continued commitment to health and safety, properly managed project planning and improved buyer experience.” These principles continue to this day under Tom’s leadership.
Solinear has been nominated for numerous accolades and is also the proud recipient of several architectural awards including a much-coveted ‘Construction & Engineering Award’ from NBCA (National Building and Construction Awards) as well as ‘Best Architectural Façade & Louvre Manufacturer 2024′ and the ‘Excellence Award for Solar Shading Design Innovations 2024’ in the ‘British Made Awards 2024’ reinforcing our reputation for British-made, quality products.
By providing innovative, bespoke façade solutions, Solinear – already an award-winner in its own right – has also been instrumental in helping to create award-winning architectural projects that have been recognised around the world for their sustainability measures and aesthetic appeal, including The First Light Pavilion at Jodrell Bank and Ada Belfield Centre and Belper Library, Derbyshire, Oxygen Towers, Manchester, The Evolution Centre at Oaklands College, St Albans and The Spinney, Ilkley.
Success Story
Today, Solinear is known as a dynamic company recognised around the world for its expertise in designing, manufacturing, and installing architectural screening and solar shading solutions and is one of York’s biggest success stories.
Solinear’s success has been marked by several key achievements:
- Innovative Product Line: One of Solinear’s most significant accomplishments is its development of a comprehensive product line that includes solar shading systems, brise soleil, and screening louvres. These products not only contribute to the visual appeal of buildings but also significantly reduce solar gain, making them vital in energy-efficient building designs.
- Sustainability Leadership: With sustainability being at the core of its operations, Solinear has adopted eco-friendly manufacturing processes and materials, aligning with global green building standards like BREEAM and LEED. Solinear’s products are designed to optimize energy consumption by controlling natural light and reducing the need for artificial cooling.
- Client Relationships and Reputation: Solinear’s focus on customer service and bespoke solutions has earned the company a loyal client base. Ability to deliver projects on time and within budget, along with a personalised approach, has cemented Solinear’s status as a go-to provider for architectural solutions.
- Landmark Projects: Solinear has been involved in numerous high-profile projects across the UK and internationally. An enviable portfolio includes collaborations on commercial buildings, schools, hospitals, and residential developments. Each project showcases the company’s commitment to quality and tailored solutions, contributing to a growing reputation.
Landmark Solinear Projects
Initially smaller and infrequent projects were enough to sustain the budding Solinear, but as its reputation for exceptional quality and superior service gained momentum, projects exponentially increased in quantity, size, complexity and prestige with Solinear’s specialist architectural facades being specified by leading architects, builders and main contractors.
Darwin House and Grand Designs Magazine
Solinear’s involvement with Darwin House represents a significant example of its expertise in delivering bespoke architectural solutions, particularly in the field of solar shading and façade design. Darwin House, a modern residential development, required a solution that would enhance both the aesthetic appeal of the building and its energy efficiency. Solinear played a key role in fulfilling these objectives.
Project Overview: Darwin House is a prominent residential development designed to offer both functionality and modern architectural appeal. Located in an urban setting, the building required a façade system that would not only improve the residents’ comfort by controlling sunlight and reducing solar gain but also contribute to the building’s contemporary design.Solinear was tasked with designing, manufacturing, and installing a solar shading system for Darwin House. The solution needed to balance practical performance with aesthetic considerations, ensuring that the building met both environmental standards and the expectations of modern urban living.
- Bespoke Solar Shading System
Solinear provided a customised brise soleil system—external sun-shading devices that reduce solar heat gain by blocking direct sunlight, particularly during peak sunlight hours. This helps in reducing the need for air conditioning within the building, enhancing energy efficiency. The brise soleil for Darwin House was tailored to suit the building’s architectural features, ensuring seamless integration with the existing design.
- Aesthetic Enhancement
The project required a solution that would not only perform functionally but also elevate the building’s aesthetic appeal. Solinear’s shading systems are known for their sleek, modern design, which adds a dynamic visual element to any structure. In the case of Darwin House, the solar shading devices enhanced the clean, modern lines of the building, contributing to its overall visual identity. - Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
One of the key reasons for installing solar shading at Darwin House was to support the building’s sustainability goals. By reducing solar heat gain, the brise soleil minimises the need for artificial cooling, thereby lowering energy consumption and supporting long-term environmental performance. Solinear’s products are designed with sustainability in mind, aligning with green building standards such as BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), making the project both eco-friendly and energy efficient.
Project Impact and Success
Solinear’s involvement in Darwin House successfully addressed the project’s dual requirements of aesthetics and sustainability. The solar shading system not only provided functional benefits by enhancing energy efficiency but also added a contemporary architectural element to the building’s exterior.
- Energy Savings: The installation of Solinear’s shading system significantly reduced the building’s reliance on artificial cooling, leading to lower energy consumption and operational costs.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The brise soleil system added a striking design feature to Darwin House, contributing to its standing as a modern, attractive residential building.
- Resident Comfort: The shading system improved the indoor environment for residents by regulating temperatures and reducing glare, creating a more comfortable living space.
Conclusion
Solinear’s work on Darwin House exemplifies its ability to deliver tailored architectural solutions that meet the modern demands of residential projects. Through the implementation of its high-quality solar shading systems, Solinear not only contributed to the building’s environmental performance but also enhanced its aesthetic appeal, showcasing the company’s commitment to blending form with function. This project further solidifies Solinear’s reputation as a leader in providing sustainable and innovative architectural solutions for residential developments.
Darwin House, and Solinear’s work on the project, has been lauded by architectural professionals and was featured in the July 2019 edition of Grand Designs magazine.
Battersea Power Station redevelopment
The Battersea Power Station project is a prime example of Solinear’s capacity to deliver bespoke architectural solutions for high-profile, complex developments. Battersea Power Station is one of the UK’s most iconic buildings, which has undergone a massive redevelopment to transform it into a mixed-use residential, commercial, and cultural destination. Solinear was called upon to contribute its expertise in solar shading and façade systems to this significant regeneration project, aligning with the building’s modern and sustainable objectives.
Project Overview: The Battersea Power Station redevelopment was one of the largest urban regeneration projects in Europe, which aimed to restore and revitalise the historical power station and surrounding areas. This multi-phase development of the site included the restoration of the historic Battersea Power Station itself and positioning it as the central focus of the regenerated site, housing a combination of residential accommodation, art and leisure facilities, shops, cafes, restaurants and office space.
The project’s design focused on blending the station’s industrial heritage with cutting-edge, sustainable architecture.
Given the scale and prestige of the project, the development required top-tier architectural and environmental solutions, with a focus on energy efficiency, modern design, and sustainability. Solinear’s expertise in solar shading systems played a crucial role in meeting these demands.
Solinear was appointed to design, manufacture, supply and install a motorised rooftop louvre system that would frame the impressive new rooftop atriums nestled amongst the landscaped terrace gardens, crowning Battersea Power Station. The goal was to provide a solution that would optimise energy efficiency, regulate internal temperatures, and enhance the building’s aesthetic, while respecting the architectural legacy of the power station.
In late 2016, Apple announced that the power station building would house its new London headquarters and by 2021, nearly one and a half thousand London employees would be consolidated from seven locations to occupy around 500,000 square feet of office space at the station. The move was later delayed to 2022 as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Bespoke Architectural Louvre Systems
The requirements for the bespoke louvre system to the new rooftop atriums were challenging from a technical standpoint. Solinear’s motorised louvre system would need to be architecturally attractive whilst allowing environmental ventilation to the offices below which includes Apple HQ. In addition to these requirements the louvres would also have to achieve a specific level of acoustic performance thus preventing noise emission from the offices below to the private residences on the rooftop. Solinear’s Viento system would be the ideal solution.
As well as the Viento louvres, Solinear was also tasked with designing, supplying and installing circular louvres to another location on the project.
- Functionality: The louvre system’s primary function would be to allow natural ventilation whilst blocking direct sunlight during peak hours and, reducing internal heat buildup, leading to improved energy efficiency and enhanced occupant comfort. The system would also be required to prevent noise emission from the offices below.
- Design Integration: Solinear’s louvre solutions were designed to complement the architectural vision of the redevelopment, which aimed to merge modern design elements with the building’s industrial character. The architectural louvres contributed to a sleek, contemporary look while also delivering significant environmental benefits.
- Architectural Screening
In addition to the acoustic and ventilation elements, Solinear contributed architectural screening solutions, particularly in areas where mechanical systems and other unsightly elements needed to be concealed. The screening systems were designed to blend seamlessly with the overall aesthetic, ensuring that functional parts of the building were discreetly hidden without compromising design integrity.
- Sustainability Contributions
One of the key drivers of the Battersea Power Station redevelopment was its focus on sustainability and creating an environmentally responsible urban space. Solinear’s architectural louvre solutions helped to meet these sustainability targets by reducing the building’s overall energy consumption. By minimising the need for artificial cooling through natural climate control, the systems have contributed to a lower carbon footprint for the development.
Solinear’s solutions also supported the project in aligning with global green building certifications like BREEAM, reinforcing the commitment to sustainable urban development.
Challenges and Solutions
Working on a project of such historical significance and scale presented unique challenges. Battersea Power Station is a Grade II* listed building, meaning that all modern architectural interventions needed to be sensitive to its heritage.
- Heritage Sensitivity: Solinear’s design team had to ensure that the solar shading systems respected the power station’s iconic industrial appearance. This required a careful balance between modern functionality and preserving the historical character of the building.
- Complex Project Logistics: The size and scope of the development meant that coordination between multiple stakeholders, contractors, and designers was crucial. Solinear worked closely with architects and other contractors to ensure that the installation of the shading systems was smooth and aligned with the overall construction schedule. The overall scale of the project was not the only factor to consider; working within Covid guidelines of the time added to the complexity of the job.
Manufacturing continued but at a reduced rate and with a number of bespoke elements to consider; the motorized damper needed to be manufactured in such a way, that the actuator and associated wiring would fit within the confines of the plenum; the fixing detail of the louvres to the front face of the system also had to be developed so that they could be removable for future maintenance, however, fixings would have to be invisible for the sake of aesthetics. All visible aluminium components were finished with PPC to RAL 8022 (Black brown) 30% gloss.
Upon completion the entire arrangement would have to undergo rigorous acoustic performance testing at the University of Salford, to confirm that the system achieved the required acoustic performance – this would be vital for the environmental comfort of the residential areas adjacent to the rooftop atriums and the enjoyment of the gardens.
Project Impact and Success
Solinear’s involvement in the Battersea Power Station redevelopment was a significant success, both from a functional and aesthetic perspective. The motorised louvre system provided essential environmental benefits while also enhancing the building’s modern appeal.
- Energy Efficiency: By allowing natural airflow, reducing solar gain and controlling natural light, Solinear’s systems helped to significantly lower the energy demands of the building. This reduction in cooling requirements played a key role in achieving the sustainability targets set for the development.
- Aesthetic Value: Solinear’s louvre solutions blend seamlessly with the building’s design, adding a modern architectural feature that complements the power station’s iconic appearance. This balance between function and form was critical to the project’s overall success.
- Contribution to Sustainability Goals: Solinear’s involvement directly supported the project’s broader sustainability goals, helping to create a modern, energy-efficient urban space that remains true to its industrial roots.
Conclusion
Solinear’s work on the Battersea Power Station redevelopment showcases the company’s ability to deliver highly tailored, technically complex solutions for landmark projects. By providing state-of-the-art solar shading systems that enhance both energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal, Solinear played an important role in transforming one of the UK’s most historic buildings into a modern, sustainable hub for living, working, and leisure.
This project further highlights Solinear’s capacity to work on large-scale developments with historical significance, demonstrating its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and architectural excellence. The Battersea Power Station redevelopment stands as a testament to Solinear’s expertise in blending cutting-edge architectural solutions with heritage preservation.
NTT Data Centre
Solinear’s contribution to the NTT Data Centre project in Dagenham is another outstanding example of the company’s expertise in delivering bespoke architectural facade and solar shading solutions. Data centres are highly energy-intensive facilities that require careful management of internal temperatures and airflow to maintain optimal operating conditions for servers and other critical IT infrastructure. Solinear was brought on board to provide architectural solutions that not only improve the efficiency of the building but also enhance its aesthetic and functional design.
Project Overview: The NTT Data Centre is part of the global data centre network managed by NTT Ltd., one of the world’s leading IT infrastructure and services companies. The project required a cutting-edge solution that addressed both the technical and environmental challenges of housing large-scale data servers. The goal was to ensure energy efficiency, protect sensitive equipment from external weather conditions, and contribute to the overall sustainability of the facility.
Data centres generate a substantial amount of heat due to the constant operation of IT equipment, and controlling this heat is critical to the centre’s performance and longevity. Thus, shading and ventilation louvre systems that help regulate internal temperatures while protecting the infrastructure were vital for the project.
Solinear played a crucial role in providing bespoke screening and louvre systems designed to meet the specific requirements of a high-performance data centre environment. The systems had to offer functional benefits such as reducing heat gain and improving air circulation, while also contributing to the building’s aesthetic appeal.
- Architectural Screening
Solinear’s key contributions was the design and installation of architectural screening systems for the data centre. These screens are essential for concealing mechanical equipment, such as cooling units and air-handling systems, which are typically visible on the exterior of data centres. - Functionality: The architectural screening offers multiple benefits: it protects the sensitive mechanical systems from external elements like wind, rain, and debris, it improves the visual appeal of the building by hiding unsightly equipment and also helps to reduce acoustic transmission from the continually operational equipment.
The louvre system also helps thermal regulation by reducing heat gain from direct sunlight, which is a critical factor in maintaining the energy efficiency of data centres. With large surface areas exposed to the sun, data centres can experience excessive heat build-up, increasing the cooling load and energy consumption.
By reducing the internal cooling demands of the building, operational efficiency of the data centre is improved thus keeping energy costs and environmental impact as low as possible.
By lowering the cooling load, the solar shading systems also contributed to the overall sustainability goals of the project. Data centres consume large amounts of energy, and even small improvements in thermal regulation can lead to significant reductions in energy usage. - Durability and Aesthetics: The screening systems were designed and manufactured using high-quality, durable materials that can withstand the environmental stresses typical of data centres, including heat and exposure to the elements. Solinear ensured that the design integrated seamlessly with the existing louvres and overall look of the building, contributing to its sleek, modern appearance.
Aesthetics would be a key feature with bespoke elements of this project including multiple RAL colourfinishes; RAL 140 80 05 – also known as ‘Willow Green’ (part of the RAL Design colour deck); RAL 6003 – a dark greyish chartreuse green colour also known as ‘Olive Green’ and RAL 6025 – also known as ‘Fern Green’ (both part of the ‘Green Hues’ category in the RAL Classic colour system).
The contrasting colours would form three strikingly distinct horizontal bands across the louvre elevations. - Sustainability Focus
Given the rising importance of sustainability in large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in energy-intensive environments like data centres, Solinear’s solutions were designed with a strong emphasis on environmental performance. The use of energy-efficient shading and screening systems align with global green building standards such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method). Solinear’s contributions helped the NTT Data Centre achieve its sustainability targets by enhancing the building’s ability to manage temperature and energy consumption efficiently.
Challenges and Solutions
Working on a large-scale data centre project like NTT came with unique challenges.
A sizeable amount of material would need to be produced while avoiding the necessity to store off-site. Working alongside supply chain partners to time production of materials, Solinear delivered directly to site thus minimising the transportation, lifting and shifting of materials.
Data centres operate under strict performance requirements, and any architectural solutions had to support these technical demands without compromising functionality. Thanks to Solinear’s precision engineering and accomplished designers the louvres allow the data centre to operate effectively.
Conclusion
Solinear’s work on the NTT Data Centre demonstrates the company’s ability to deliver highly specialised architectural solutions for complex, high-performance environments. By providing bespoke screening and louvre systems that enhance both the functionality and sustainability of the building, Solinear played a crucial role in the successful completion of the data centre.
This project highlights Solinear’s expertise in managing the unique challenges of data centre architecture, from thermal regulation to equipment protection, all while ensuring energy efficiency and aesthetic integrity. As the demand for data centres continues to grow in the digital age, Solinear’s involvement with the NTT Data Centre positions the company as a key player in delivering innovative, sustainable solutions for the tech infrastructure sector.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Solinear is poised for continued growth and innovation. As the construction industry moves increasingly toward sustainable and energy-efficient designs, the demand for Solinear’s products is expected to rise.
Expansion into New Markets: Solinear is always keen to explore opportunities to expand its reach into new markets, both geographically and sector-wise. The company is particularly interested in tapping into growing urban areas where sustainable construction is critical especially as the urban heat island effect becomes more commonplace. Additionally, expanding into markets with stricter environmental regulations offers an opportunity to provide cutting-edge, energy-efficient solutions.
Solinear is already in demand around the world with enquiries from the United States, Vietnam, Dubai, France and Australia amongst other countries looking to acquire Solinear’s products and expertise.
An enquiry from Oman lead to Solinear supplying and delivering a dual level tubular shading system for a Customer Experience Centre in Muscat achieving the aesthetic and design intent proposed by the architect and aligning with the Oman government’s vision of investing in sustainable developments. Throughout the project Coronavirus restrictions had to be adhered to which meant site visits and in-person design meetings weren’t possible and Solinear’s Solex tubular system had to be supply only. With this in mind, Solinear, is planning to make supply-only options even easier to source – especially to overseas clients – and extend the range offering more variety.
Technological Advancements: As technology continues to evolve, Solinear plans to integrate more advanced materials and manufacturing techniques into its products. Solinear already utilises 3D printing in its manufacturing to streamline production. Materials with better thermal properties are likely to feature in future product lines as well as more high-quality timber-effect options that may be more sustainable than timber whilst retaining the warmth and appearance of real wood.
Strengthening Sustainability Commitments: In line with global sustainability goals, Solinear intends to further reduce its carbon footprint and increase the use of renewable materials in its products. Collaborating with environmental agencies and green building advocates will be a priority as the company aims to maintain its leadership in sustainable architecture.
As a result of the 3D printing of lightweight but robust fitments, Solinear has streamlined the installation of systems, especially where small adjustments would need to be made but could mean returning products to the factory and then transporting back to site. This means Solinear has reduced unnecessary journeys to and from site and lowered fuel consumption.
Collaborations and Partnerships: Solinear has an enviable client list and is proud of its relationships with its customers with a considerable number of enquiries received from return clients or recommendations from previous or existing customers.
Solinear future lies in further strengthening its relationships with architects, engineers, and construction firms. By maintaining a close relationship with key industry players, Solinear will stay ahead of trends and ensure that it continues to offer relevant, forward-thinking solutions.
Awards: Solinear is looking forward to collaborating on more award winning projects and receiving more nominations and accolades. Being recognised for a job well done is always welcome and it’s predicted that Solinear will be adding to its already heaving awards cabinet!
Sponsorship: Solinear will continue to support local community events and sporting endeavours. Over the past year Solinear has lent its support to young football players from Wigginton Grasshoppers Football Club highlighting the importance of sponsorship to maintain grassroots clubs which can include equipment, facilities, and operational costs.
Solinear was also proud to sponsor Andrew (Solinear project designer) and his teammate, Andy King, for their Isle of Man TT sidecar racing in May.
Conclusion
Solinear’s journey from a small architectural solutions provider to a leader in the field of solar shading and façade systems is a testament to its dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainability.
With an impressive track record of successful projects and a clear vision for the future, as well as strong and dedicated team, Solinear is well-positioned to remain at the forefront of the architectural and construction industry, delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern buildings. The company’s commitment to excellence ensures that its future is as bright as its achievements to date.
Here’s to many more Solinear birthdays.
