The Gateway Apartments student accommodation in Edinburgh has set a new standard for student living, assisted by the aesthetic results achieved by systems from fenestration systems designer and manufacturer Senior Architectural Systems.

Senior has supplied curtain wall and window systems for the project, which have assisted architects in their mission to achieve an exceptional contemporary look both inside and outside of the brand new 170-bedroom accommodation block.

The systems ensure the accommodation is flooded with natural light, creating an environment which encourages productive study and enhances the wellbeing of residents, with natural ventilation throughout.

Not only does the accommodation look and feel desirable – it is in one of the most convenient locations for students. Set in a quiet, elegant enclave and within walking distance of all the main colleges and university campuses, Gateway Apartments is sure to be a sought-after place to live for years to come.

Including a private gym, cinema room and games room, the accommodation has a village-like atmosphere and was constructed using the highest quality products, meeting the demands of the modern-day student.

Senior’s SMR900 aluminium curtain wall systems were fabricated and installed by Marshall Brown at Gateway Apartments, which was overseen by main contractor Watkin Jones and designed by Edinburgh-based Susan Stephen Architects.

Senior’s curtain wall systems – used on communal staircases – help to create an open, inspiring atmosphere which encourages the formation of communities and therefore an ideal living environment for all.

The weather tested SMR900 curtain wall systems are suitable for high rise, high exposure applications so were the ideal option at Gateway Apartments. This robust, tubular system is zone-drained and pressure equalized and can be fabricated into ladders for quick assembly on site.

Meanwhile, Senior’s SPW600E window systems were also installed throughout the four storey building, including in bedrooms, kitchens, meeting rooms, quiet rooms and common rooms. Views can be admired from each room with thanks to the large windows, which maximise daylight to create a more spacious environment.

Senior’s aluminium SPW600E systems are thermally enhanced and offer versatility in terms of configuration. The systems are available as top or side-hung open out casements, inward opening tilt or turns, or overswing systems, are weather tested and thermally broken, achieving BRFC ratings. 

As a result of its innovative and contemporary design, the prestigious Gateway Apartments development won Best Residential Building in the RICS Scotland Awards 2014 and was shortlisted for three Scottish Property Awards in the categories of Development of the Year, City Regeneration Project of the Year and Architectural Excellence Award.

The RICS Awards showcase the most inspirational regional initiatives and developments in land, property, construction and the environment with the Judging Panel describing the development as making a significant contribution to the local urban fabric.  The independent Scottish Property Awards programme highlights the best commercial and public building work in Scotland.

Richard Howl of Susan Stephen Architects, said: “The Senior Architectural Systems frame was chosen for its slim sightlines whilst achieving a high quality, high performance window.  The fenestration treatment uses large double glazed windows to break up the façade in a staggered pattern to avoid the ubiquitous stacking arrangement of contemporary residential blocks.  These large openings maximise the amount of natural light in each room conducive to study and wellbeing with natural ventilation throughout.  The slim frame enabled this to be subtly executed to outline each opening.”