4mm and 6mm clear Marlon FSX flat polycarbonate was used to create this stunning curved glazing feature on the new extension of the Four Seasons Hotel in Arieşeni-Vârtop, Romania. Situated in the heart of the Apuseni Mountains, one of the few areas in north-western Romania developed for skiing, the hotel is built into the side of a cliff which made the weight of the glazing material a key consideration to ensure a structurally safe building.
Requirements:
- Strength to weight ratio
- Able to be cold curved
- High impact resistance
- UV resistant
Marlon FSX polycarbonate proved to be the ideal product due to the many benefits it offered to this project, including high impact strength, UV protection, excellent light transmission, ability to be cold curved and its exceptional strength to weight ratio.
The design of the new extension was inspired by the Sydney Opera House. The roof needed to be steep to avoid accumulation of snow, as snowfall during winter can easily reach two meters. Since the hotel is located in a mountain area at 1200m altitude, temperatures can drop in winter as low as -20°C. To ensure proper insulation during the most important ski season, a double glazing system had to be installed. The team used 4mm and 6mm Marlon FSX polycarbonate sheets to create 16 uniquely shaped triangles to form the impressive façade. The entire glazed front section of the extension was built positioned flat on the ground, using cold bending techniques on site, before it was finally positioned vertically.
The glass like transparency offered by Marlon FSX also played an important role in choosing the material. There was no doubt the new extension had to enable guests to enjoy the breath-taking views in front of the hotel. With south facing windows a transparent polycarbonate façade also makes the most of the natural sunlight, providing a lighter and brighter internal environment. The co-extruded protective layer offered extra protection, preventing 98% of UV radiation from penetrating the sheets.
