Zircon 38 Aluminium Expanded Mesh Panel — Fire Escape Cladding, Notting Hill, London

We were appointed by Savoy Construction to supply and install an Amron Architectural Zircon 38 aluminium expanded mesh panel system to an existing external fire escape staircase in Notting Hill, London, serving a mixed-use development comprising residential apartments and a school.

The existing steel staircase required a full enclosure solution that was both visually sympathetic to the building and compliant with the demands of a busy, dual-use environment. We designed and installed a bespoke heavy-gauge aluminium subframe to the existing steelwork, providing a clean and secure fixing substrate before mechanically fixing approximately 67 Zircon 38 mesh panels and a gate throughout the structure.

A key challenge on this project was that the staircase remained fully operational throughout the installation, requiring careful programming and site management to ensure the safety of residents and school users at all times.

The panels were powder coated in C33 Bronze to the client's specification, delivering a durable, low-maintenance finish that enhances the appearance of the staircase while allowing natural light and air circulation — a key consideration for an open fire escape structure.

A single ply roof was installed above the staircase using Danosa PVC single ply and a structural steel metal deck.

Completed in May 2026, the installation provides a robust and attractive enclosure that meets the long-term requirements of both the school and the residential occupants who rely on the staircase daily.