Watkin Road, Wembley

 “Supply and install was very good – very easy to work out any issues and overall a smooth operation from start to finish.”

Will Quibell, Barratt Homes, Watkin Road, Wembley

History:

Watkin Road, a Barratt London development, is located in the shadow of the iconic Wembley Stadium, drawing inspiration from the area’s rich history, notably the ambitious but unsuccessful attempt by Mr. Watkin in the 1800s to construct a tower rivaling the Eiffel Tower. Unlike “Watkin’s Folly,” the Watkin Road project represents a successful integration of modern living spaces within a historic context. This development was focused on creating cost-effective and simplistically detailed balconies, aligning with the overall architectural vision while ensuring safety and efficiency.

Streamlined by Innovation, Delivered by Sapphire

Sapphire’s involvement in the Watkin Road project was pivotal, especially in addressing one of the most critical aspects of modern construction: fire safety. Working closely with Barratt London, Sapphire introduced its thoroughly tested StubGuard® fire-stopping detail, a solution designed to enhance fire barrier continuity across the balconies. This innovation was integral to the fire engineer’s strategy for the building, providing a reliable and effective fire stop that reduced the reliance on the variable skill levels of operatives installing fire-stopping and fire protection measures.

The introduction of pre-manufactured firestops by Sapphire not only simplified the installation process but also ensured a consistent and high level of fire safety across the development. This approach highlighted Sapphire’s commitment to delivering solutions that meet stringent safety standards while accommodating the practical needs of construction and installation. By integrating these fire stops into the balcony design, Sapphire helped streamline the balcony journey, ensuring that the balconies were not just aesthetically pleasing and cost-effective but also compliant with the latest fire safety regulations.

The Watkin Road development stands as a testament to the successful collaboration between architects, developers, and balcony specialists. Sapphire Balconies’ contribution, particularly in the realm of fire safety, underscores the importance of innovative solutions in modern construction, ensuring that new developments like Watkin Road can provide safe and desirable living spaces within historical and culturally significant areas.