9th July 2024

Perega’s Kodak Moment

Aperture Works marks the beginning of a transformative regeneration project on the site of the former Kodak factory, the UK’s largest, in Harrow, London. This ambitious mixed-use development, spearheaded by developer and housing association L&Q, aims to deliver 747 new homes, a food store, flexible commercial spaces and a health centre.

The factory had been an integral part of Harrow’s community since it was opened by Eastman Kodak in 1891 as their first manufacturing base outside the United States. At its height, it employed more than 6,000 people, and when it was closed and decommissioned in 2016, great care was taken to preserve the iconic ‘Kodak Chimney’ which had been a part of the town’s skyline for over a century. The area has been named Eastman Village, a tribute to George Eastman, the founder of Kodak.

Committed to preserving the site’s Victorian heritage and surrounding green spaces, the development is set to enhance and enrich the local area, becoming an important new asset for the Harrow and Wealdstone community.

Brought onto the project in October 2022 as consultant engineers by L&Q, our role has been crucial in guaranteeing the quality and structural integrity of the façade works.

Over the past 18 months, the team has been diligently reviewing drawings and structural calculations for the cladding of blocks A, B, C and D, with the overarching goal of ensuring every detail meets the stringent requirements set forth by the client.

The scope of work encompasses all aspects of the façade, from the curtain walling and cladding works to the design of the steel frame systems. This includes examining specifications for windows, doors, and structural glass elements, and verifying the façade design is robust and compliant with current building regulations.

Project lead and Associate Barry Patrick says, “Our expertise continues to be vital in realising L&Q’s vision for this historic site, creating new homes and revitalising a piece of Harrow’s history. As the project progresses, our job is to ensure the final, agreed design is executed to the highest standards. Given the size and significance of this project, it’s a massive undertaking, but one that we are well-equipped to handle.”

Images courtesy of BPTW.

For more information about Perega’s expertise in façade consultancy, visit our “Glass and Façade Design” page.