The Challenge

Aluroll were engaged by a client working on behalf of Foster and Partners (F&P) to develop a unique barrier system for the Apple Store in development at the Sands Cotai Casino in Macau, China.

Due to structural constraints and aesthetic requirements a standard roller shutter solution will not work. These requirements were set by the building’s landlord and without satisfying them the project would not be approved.

The Solution

Once the client had made their preferred shutter style choice (welded tube & link), Aluroll commissioned a second round of prototype tests which involved building a full-scale 9153mm x 5000mm prototype with removable 150mm guide channels.

Weight and barrel calculations from the smaller prototypes suggested a maximum tube and link roll diameter of 388mm, which was within the 400mm space. All three tube and link curtain design options were built to full scale and tested on the same barrel and guide channel framework.

Aluroll’s extensive research, design and testing stages ensured the final product met the unique requirements of the initial brief successfully. 

Aluroll visited site in Macau in December 2018 to survey site and confirm all dimensions for manufacture. 

Apple and F&P requested that Aluroll co-ordinate the installation via a local contractor (YK).

Read Dezeens take on the store opening here