Challenge
We were approached to create a free standing T and 5 for use with the Christmas display outside of Heathrow’s Terminal 5 building. We were given a week to create the whole project and as this was an incredibly tight turnaround that the entire project was produced out of normal hours. The full team committed to the extra work and got straight on the project The idea was passed by us and our graphics assistant then mocked up how it would look as the display was required to be 2.5 metres tall and the clients were having difficulty picturing the concept.
Solution
Once they agreed to the look of the planters our CAD technician then drew up 3D models and technical drawings for production. The technician had to include a steel pole structure so that the planters wouldn't fall over in a high gust of wind, as glass fibre is incredibly lightweight. Each mould was then constructed by hand by our experienced workshop technicians and so that the planter’s construction could begin. After, 90 hours of hard and enduring labour we were then able to texture them in our standard Brilliant White finish. Once dry we then wrapped them with great care and it took 8 men to load them into a truck for delivery; our technical director then drove from Edinburgh all the way down to Heathrow to deliver them personally, on site at 10pm on a Sunday.
Outcome
The outcome of the bespoke sculptures were magnificent and stood proudly with the Christmas tree display outside of the terminal building. The sculpture was a warm and aesthetically pleasing invitation into the building.
Client
London Heathrow Airport
Project Date
Winter 2013
Technology
Advanced Composite Glass Fibre; Steel