SAS International Integrated Service Modules and acoustic lighting rafts specified for Merton College

Architects Nightingale Associates work on the phased redevelopment of Merton College’s campus buildings has included the installation of Integrated Service Modules (ISM’s) from SAS International. In classrooms, laboratories, offices and general study areas they have provided a modern and robust solution in the new state of the art teaching block.
Working with M&E Consultants Max Fordham, specialists in sustainable design, the project included the design of a number of key features that were critical to this educational environment. As well as environmental considerations, lighting, acoustic absorption and security/safety were particularly important in this educational setting.
The SAS ISM’s proved ideal; being a pre-fabricated and easy to install solution which combined luminaires, chilled beams, cable trays and apertures for other building services, such as PIR (Passive Infra Red) sensors. Several hundred metres of ISM’s were installed in the building. Being suspended directly from an open soffit or within coffers, they allowed the free air movement to the exposed concrete slabs for sustainable natural mass cooling.
The ISM’s also featured an acrylic lighting diffuser on the top of each module, which allowed up-lighting onto the building’s soffit. The ratio of down- to up-lighting was approximately 80:20.
“One of the main design features of the building was using thermal mass cooling as an option, reducing the need for mechanical ventilation,” said Gary Waugh from Nightingale Associates. “In the IT rooms, additional cooling requirements determined the choice of chilled beam technology which use less energy than standard air conditioning. SAS International’s Integrated Service Modules were ideal for this, and were specified to match the beam profile employed elsewhere in the building.”
SAS System 600 acoustic lighting rafts were also specified, which featured both luminaires and acoustic absorption pads. The fitting of acoustic pads helped to absorb sound, which is particularly relevant in a class room situation.
Security considerations are also critical in this type of environment and both the ISMs and acoustic lighting rafts offer the ability to protect the building services. Furthermore, a series of metal panels were specially designed and manufactured by SAS International to fit between the end of the ISM or raft and the wall, to hide cabling and pipework for additional protection and aesthetic considerations.
The result is a striking, modern and very functional interior throughout which fulfils the key requirements for this exciting development.

Email: enquiries@sasint.co.uk