With a long history of association with the aerospace industry, Farnborough in Hampshire has recently seen the opening of a prestigious new four star hotel. Appropriately named The Aviator, the hotel is the latest addition to the Dakota Group portfolio and has been developed with a strong creative theme based on the town’s aviation traditions.
With a stunning aerodynamically styled exterior, The Aviator looks like a propeller when viewed from the skies. Gillespie (UK) Limited of the Tvedt group of companies was called on to help realize a number of the similarly dramatic key elements in the interior theming for the hotel. Working closely with Hamiltons Architects and main contractors ISG Interior Exterior PLC, Gillespie designed, manufactured and installed the panels for the staircase and atrium that form the breathtaking central feature in the lobby and reception area.
Using Zerodec laminated GRG, Gillespie created the circular panels and lighting troughs to the atrium balustrades on each floor, and formed the GRG dome in the top floor ceiling above the atrium. Gillespie also designed and installed GRG cladding to the staircase which runs from the ground floor reception up to the first floor, incorporating a timber handrail with integral lighting.
The Gillespie site installation team formed an excellent working relationship with the main contractors and architect which meant that the programme of works was completed on schedule. The Aviator opened in July 2008 in time for the Farnborough International Air Show.
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