SFS – Rivermark, London

» Appointed early in the project to provide SFS solutions across all seven tower blocks

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» Designed and supplied approximately 26,500m2

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» Extensive range of tested through-the-wall details provided to meet fire performance requirements

Early collaboration was key to delivering an effective SFS solution for the Leven Road development in East London. Working closely with Taylor Wimpey and Conneely Facades Ltd, voestalpine Metsec helped overcome site constraints and complex curved façades through early design input and coordination. Supplying over 26,000m² of SFS across seven buildings, this proactive approach supported programme efficiency, streamlined procurement and ensured high-quality delivery.

The Leven Road residential development in Poplar, East London is a landmark scheme inspired by the area’s industrial heritage. Once complete, the development will deliver 530 new apartments across seven residential blocks, comprising of three towers (Blocks A, B and C) and four podium buildings (Blocks D, E, F and G).

voestalpine Metsec were appointed early in the project to provide SFS solutions across all seven buildings. Working directly with Taylor Wimpey from the outset and in close coordination with installer Conneely Facades Ltd, voestalpine Metsec has designed and supplied approximately 26,500m² of SFS.

As a high-density residential scheme in a constrained location, the project presented challenges. Tight site conditions required planning of logistics and sequencing, while programme pressures demanded early design certainty and efficient procurement. The curved façades of the tower blocks added design complexity, requiring precise detailing to ensure buildability and performance.

voestalpine Metsec provided a free design service during the early design stages. David Gonzalez, Technical Manager at Taylor Wimpey,

“The free design service offered by Metsec was invaluable. It allowed us to engage with their team early on, even before the contractor was appointed. This ensured that all details and designs were fully coordinated and enabled a precise take-off of materials for tendering, which was a real advantage.”

voestalpine Metsec fully detailed the tower blocks using 150mm infill SFS to meet increased structural demands and accommodate curved walls, while the podium blocks were designed using 100mm SFS for an efficient and economical solution. Fire performance requirements were addressed through Metsec’s extensive range of tested through-the-wall details, enabling compliant fire-rated wall designs without altering the site-wide façade specification. As David Gonzalez notes,

“This made it possible to design fire-rated walls without needing to amend the site-wide wall build-up specification for compliance, saving significant time and hassle.”

When Conneely Facades Ltd tendered for the SFS package, voestalpine Metsec’s prior engagement with the client was already well established. Tony O’Halloran, Construction Director at Conneely Group, highlights the importance of this approach, stating that

“on a project of this size, knowing Metsec were already engaged with Taylor Wimpey was critical. It gives the successful contractor confidence and saves invaluable time, ensuring you can commence on programme.”

Quality assurance has remained a priority. voestalpine Metsec’s site visits and checks have provided added reassurance to all parties, with David Gonzalez noting that

“the on-site QA checks confirmed that the contractor’s work consistently adhered to Metsec’s installation guidance.”

The project stands as a strong example of how early engagement, technical expertise and collaborative working can unlock programme efficiencies and support successful outcomes on complex, large-scale residential developments.