England

ABOUT

The challenge of this project was to design, manufacture and install a bespoke shading system that could be operated remotely from the theater floor, while ensuring total darkness with blackout shading fabrics. With considerable experience and a reputation for creating and implementing unique shading solutions, James Robertshaw was the obvious choice to complete this project.

The Marine Hall and Gardens complex is ideally located on the magnificent waterfront of Fleetwood, England. A true local landmark, it hosts the Wyre region’s finest shows while retaining the charm and character of its 1930s art deco heritage. In addition to its central theater, an architectural gem of the period, the site offers a terrace and outdoor performance space overlooking the gardens and its leisure facilities. Opposite stands the famous Mount, topped by the Mount Pavilion, which has watched over Fleetwood for over a hundred years. A setting both historic and spectacular, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the view.

Sun protection fabrics around a unique dome

The unique design of the dome called for an equally unique, and therefore bespoke, system. As the blind system could only work with straight sections, a wooden structure had to be built to integrate blackout blinds inside the curvature of the dome, creating a totally light-tight environment. The proposed solution is based on a system of 8 individual blinds, each measuring 3200 mm wide by 3000 mm high. Each blind is motorized and can be operated individually.

Soltis 99 Opaque: the textile solution for controlled shading

Soltis 99 Opaque is the ideal answer to the need for comfort in buildings. This technical fabric is available in different versions to suit every interior application, combining performance, aesthetics and ease of integration.

Two versions to meet every need:

• Soltis 99 Opaque Alu: a 100% blackout fabric, Class 4 according to EN 14501, perfect for total darkness and excellent thermal control thanks to its metallic backing.
• Soltis 99 Opaque White: a blackout version, Class 3 according to EN 14501, which darkens the room while maintaining a neutral design and easy integration with its 2 white sides.

Light, thin and flexible

Thanks to its thinness and lightness, Soltis 99 Opaque integrates easily and discreetly into small systems. It is also perfectly compatible in combination with the other variations in the Soltis 99 screen range, offering aesthetic harmony through color synergy.

Meticulous installation

The second challenge of this project was installation – a daunting task, given that the site is on the roof of a 90-year-old theater, accessible only via small stage doors and two outside ladders! Combined with high winds and surfaces that could be slippery due to weather conditions, this operation required all the experience, concentration and ingenuity of the installation teams. The system operates by radio remote control (RTS), enabling sound engineers to operate the blinds from the stage below the dome during a performance. Once the blinds are fully deployed, natural light is completely blocked by Soltis 99 Opaque.

Project Participants :

Installation: James Robertshaw
Fabric: Soltis 99 Opaque
Copyright: James Robertshaw