Case Study: Canterbury Council Offices
Precision Meets Performance: Watch the transformation unfold in our time-lapse video:
Precision, Collaboration, and Innovation — Captured in Motion!
The above time-lapse video showcases the expert installation of the LAMILUX Glass Roof PR60 at the iconic former Topshop site, now transformed into the contemporary Canterbury City Council Offices at Whitefriars, UK.
As part of the redevelopment of the former Topshop retail unit at Whitefriars in Canterbury, the site has been transformed into one of Canterbury City Council’s modern office spaces. A key architectural feature of the refurbishment was the installation of a LAMILUX Glass Roof PR60, delivering both daylight performance and architectural distinction.
Design and Integration
The glass roof system was mounted onto a precisely engineered glulam timber substructure, which played a critical role in the success of the installation. The glulam structure was manufactured to be completely level—offering a perfectly horizontal base for the rooflight system. To accommodate this, LAMILUX designed the PR60 system with a 3° inclination, essential for water drainage and overall performance. This inclination was achieved by engineering incremental leg heights across the system, allowing the entire rooflight to sit flush on a flat glulam frame while still creating the necessary slope for functionality.
The internal roof opening measured an impressive 7,500mm in span and 15,020mm in length, making the project a significant structural and logistical undertaking. The LAMILUX Glass Roof PR60 was fitted with triple-glazed, toughened safety glass incorporating integrated sun protection, ensuring optimal thermal and solar performance. The system was tested and certified as Class 2 non-fragile in accordance with CWCT standards, offering both safety and durability. Acoustic performance was also a key consideration for the council office environment, with the glazing achieving a sound insulation rating of 39dB to reduce external noise intrusion. The roof comprised a total of 22 glass panes, divided into 10 square and 12 triangular units, each precisely fabricated to fit the architectural geometry.
Installation Process
Given the size and complexity of the glazing elements, installation was carried out using a crane, where each pane was carefully lifted and positioned into position and installed with meticulous coordination. This ensured accuracy and maintaining the integrity of the structure throughout the process. The triangular and square panes were designed to interface seamlessly within the PR60 frame, ensuring airtightness and aesthetic precision. Collaboration between the on-site contractors, crane operators, and LAMILUX technicians was critical to achieving precise alignment and a watertight seal for each glazing unit. Despite the logistical challenges posed by the size and weight of the glass panes, the team maintained exceptional control and efficiency throughout, resulting in a flawless final fit that met performance and aesthetic standards.
Right: While the structural elements, most notably the glazed roof were complete, the final layout was still under development. AI has been used to create a visual concept of the completed workspace, layering office furnishings and features onto the real photograph of the newly installed rooflight. This visual supports the design intent and helps convey the space in use.
The finished installation delivers abundant natural light, solar control, acoustic comfort, and a contemporary architectural finish—all while meeting the stringent structural and sustainability standards required for civic buildings. The collaboration between LAMILUX and the project team at Whitefriars highlights the technical adaptability and design precision of the PR60 glass roof system.
