Case Study: Bradford Markets – Darley Street
Engineering Light and Safety at Darley Street
As part of the landmark redevelopment of Bradford Markets at Darley Street, LAMILUX was appointed to supply and install 10 identical self-supporting glass rooflights, including all associated vertical elements and smoke ventilation louvres. The project demanded a technically robust solution that would deliver high levels of daylight, thermal performance, and compliant smoke ventilation, while integrating seamlessly into the overall architectural vision.
Architect: Greig & Stephenson Architects | Contractor: Kier Construction
The LAMILUX Solution
LAMILUX supplied 10 LAMILUX Glass Roof PR60 systems, each designed as a fully self-supporting rooflight incorporating all vertical framework above the waterproofed kerb. This integrated design approach reduced interface risks on site while ensuring a clean and coordinated installation. The PR60 systems feature thermally optimised aluminium frames that are free of cold bridges and finished in a powder-coated aluminium finish to a single specified RAL colour.
Each rooflight achieves a Class 2 fragility rating, providing non-fragile protection against accidental falls. The rooflights are double glazed, with the vertical glazing achieving a glass U-value (Ug) of 1.1 W/m²K. In addition to strong thermal performance, the glazing delivers excellent environmental comfort, offering a light transmittance of 78%, a G-value of 0.56, and sound insulation of 38 dB.
All rooflights were dimensioned and engineered in line with the supplied designs, developed collaboratively between Kier and LAMILUX to meet both the architectural intent and the project’s performance requirements.
Smoke Ventilation & Louvres
A key element of the installation was the integration of vertical smoke vent louvres, delivering a compliant and highly efficient smoke control solution for the market hall. The system incorporated operable smoke vent louvres with powder-coated aluminium frames and double-glazed construction, all CE marked in accordance with EN 12101-2. These were complemented by fixed blade powder-coated aluminium louvres, which were designed to be de-mountable, allowing straightforward access for maintenance of the operable units.
During the technical review stage, LAMILUX worked closely with Kier to challenge the original specification and demonstrate improved performance. This was achieved by showcasing a previously installed LAMILUX project of similar scale and design, providing confidence in buildability and long-term performance, and by demonstrating an increased aerodynamic free area (Afa) per louvre when using the LAMILUX system compared to the originally specified component.
This value-engineering exercise resulted in a more efficient smoke ventilation solution, delivered without compromising compliance, performance, or architectural aesthetics.
Installation & Logistics
LAMILUX provided a full supply-and-installation package, ensuring single-point responsibility for quality and programme.
- Standard delivery to site included
- Installation with CPA contract lifting included
- Craneage planned and executed subject to a detailed crane survey
Final access arrangements and installation sequencing agreed at pre-order meeting, minimising site disruption and ensuring smooth coordination with other trades
The completed rooflights now provide Bradford Markets with high levels of natural daylight, excellent thermal and acoustic performance, and a compliant, efficient smoke ventilation strategy, all delivered with a clean architectural finish that aligns seamlessly with the wider redevelopment vision.
The project stands as a strong example of LAMILUX’s technical expertise, collaborative approach, and ability to add value through intelligent design development, contributing to the successful opening of Bradford Markets on 10 July 2025.
