As part of a full restaurant redevelopment, Pesto at the White Swan in Wythall sought to increase covers while enhancing the dining experience for customers, preserving the existing building’s character and welcoming pub aesthetic. A Solarlux Atrium Plus enclosed glazed canopy and Proline S sliding glass doors were selected to extend the dining area, providing an adaptable, contemporary indoor-outdoor space that can be enjoyed year-round.
A bespoke glazed atrium designed to transform the dining experience
Solarlux worked with Amazing Space Concepts to create a bespoke, visually distinctive glass extension for the front of the restaurant using the Atrium Plus glass canopy system.
Manufactured from precision-engineered aluminium profiles, the finished structure measures 14,000mm in width with a 5,450mm projection and a 900mm front roof overhang designed to meet the client’s architectural brief.
The front elevation incorporates four independent sets of Solarlux Proline S sliding panels, providing ventilation and a sense of alfresco dining. When the panels are closed, their frameless design offers maximum natural light and uninterrupted views to the outdoors.
One end elevation features an SL45 double-door system with fixed side lights, providing access. The opposing elevation features fixed glazing panels, which contribute to structural integrity while providing uninterrupted sightlines.
A fully glazed structure engineered for commercial performance
Quality, durability and day-to-day usability were central to the project brief. As a high-traffic hospitality environment, the space needed to perform reliably under constant use, while also delivering effective protection from the elements, managing solar gain and maintaining a comfortable internal environment throughout the year.
Structural glazing engineered for year-round weather performance
A key requirement was the ability to use the space throughout the year. This placed significant emphasis on both structural and thermal performance, ensuring the space could withstand external conditions while maintaining internal comfort.
The Atrium Plus system was engineered to meet demanding structural and environmental requirements. Due to the scale of the installation and its exposed position, the glazed atrium was designed to withstand significant wind and snow loads.
While the Atrium Plus and Proline S systems are not insulated, they still deliver effective thermal performance to meet the requirements of Approved Document L: Conservation of Fuel and Power. This helps to maintain thermal comfort for visitors and reduces the cost of heating the dining area.
The Atrium Plus also includes integrated ventilation, which contributes to indoor air quality and allows excess moisture to escape, reducing the risk of condensation on the glass. In suitable weather, the sliding panels and doors can also be opened to allow in fresh air.
Integrated climate control features in the glazed atrium
The glazed atrium incorporates a range of integrated systems designed to manage temperature, solar gain and overall comfort.
Warema externally mounted SLM 100 awnings provide effective solar shading and help to reduce overheating during warmer periods. These can be easily controlled via a handheld control panel.
Heating is delivered through Bromic 2kW Smart-Heat Platinum ceramic heaters, discreetly mounted above seating areas to provide targeted radiant warmth without impacting the clean architectural lines of the structure.
A key advantage of the Atrium Plus system is that features such as heating and lighting can be integrated into the structure without compromising its clean lines and minimalist appearance. Wiring routes and mounting provisions for heaters and LED lighting were coordinated during the design phase, ensuring all cabling and fixtures are discreetly concealed and securely installed.
Noise reduction in the glazed atrium
The Proline S sliding system can incorporate glazing thicknesses of up to 10mm and achieves a sound reduction index of approximately 17dB. This helps to mitigate external noise, reducing the impact of passing traffic and supporting a more relaxed atmosphere within the restaurant.
Sliding glazing systems designed for flexible, easy operation
The lockable Solarlux Atrium Plus sliding panels and Proline S sliding glass doors are manufactured to exacting tolerances, delivering exceptional fit and smooth, reliable performance, supporting efficient day-to-day use without compromising durability. Designed for simple ongoing maintenance it is essential that the tracks are kept clean for their smooth operation.
The Proline S system is designed for maximum flexibility and seamless operation. Multiple opening configurations are possible to suit operational needs, access requirements and customer comfort.
To learn more about Atrium Plus or explore how Solarlux commercial glazed structures could elevate your next project, contact the Solarlux team today.