Blue Fin Building gets Phoenix treatment

Aug 06

Phoenix Interiors completed a six month, £3.5million project to install 50,000 sq m of metal ceilings at IPC Bankside, the new headquarters for leading publishing company IPC next to the Tate Modern in London.

Christened the Blue Fin Building because of the 2,000 blue aluminium fins that cover the building's facade, the new IPC HQ was built by Bovis Lend Lease. Phoenix Interiors worked closely with long-time client ISG InteriorExterior (ISG who were responsible for the interior fit out.)

Phoenix director Gary Britnell says the secret of success in such a challenging and prestigious project is skilled labour: "We have a good reputation for producing a quality end product because we only use tried and tested site operatives" he explains.

"Most of our guys have been with us for many years. They are committed and passionate about what they do," he adds. "We have also been working with ISG for 17 years and have an excellent relationship with them."

As well as the ceilings, Phoenix installed plasterboard and GRG margins and bulkheads, including air conditioning grilles and plenum boxes.

One of the most challenging elements was the fitting of ceilings over "The Street", an impressive internal walkway around the atrium that allows the building's occupants to circulate easily.

The 46,350 sq m Blue Fin building is part of the 85,000 sq m Bankside 123 mixed-use development on a site formerly occupied by St Christopher House, a late 1950s Government building.