St Martin’s Courtyard, Covent Garden
St Martin’s Courtyard was created as a mixed-use retail, dining and lifestyle destination in the heart of London’s Covent Garden district. Every year, millions of people enjoy its many attractions, including shopping, theatres, restaurants, bars, history and culture. St Martin’s Courtyard is one of the several pedestrianized areas of the popular neighbourhood.
After a competition, Brimelow McSweeney Architects was commissioned to further develop the concept of the courtyard with a complete refurbishment. The architects’ proposal sought to create a large attractive terrace to the restaurants, unique entrance features and facades to entice passers-by into the courtyard.
A major contribution to the revamping of the pedestrianised area comes from the use of Corian® Exteriors, a solution based on Corian® Solid Surface which is widely used around the world for innovative and eye-catching architectural projects.
Three different pathways lead into St Martin’s Courtyard with its open-air restaurant dining, bars and shops. Brimelow McSweeney Architects used a range of different materials, patterns and lighting solutions for each entrance feature, fitting out a full immersion into a visually entertaining experience while leaving all city noises behind.
The approach to the courtyard design sought to enhance the outdoor living creating an inner city garden atmosphere for people to sit and relax while attracting other visitors as the installations are visible from the street.
The terrace was designed as a feature reminiscing of Mediterranean architecture, a series of classical arches supported by columns create an elegant arcade in the centre of the courtyard. The entire arcade was clad with Corian® Exteriors in a marble-like textured colour. The unique thermoforming properties of the material allowed for the curved shapes of arches and vault, with seamless joints between the glued panels. Corian® Exteriors was also used for the façade of the terrace over the ground and first floor with a pattern mirroring the arches, giving the entire facade visual continuity. LED lighting fixtures were integrated into the Corian® cladding, providing an attractive and unusual illumination to St Martin’s Courtyard especially at night.
The cube above the terrace has also been clad with Corian® Exteriors. Brimelow McSweeney Architects created a decorative façade with a small geometric pattern cut into the material, displaying a stunning effect of light and shadows, further emphasized when backlit.
“We were able to achieve the monolithic look we wanted for our large-scale design thanks to the versatility of Corian® Exteriors. Its thermoforming properties and the inconspicuous seams allowed us to create the arches, the columns and the decorative wall cladding exactly as we had designed them. The support of Corian® Exteriors specialists in the UK and the great skills and know-how of Dolphin company in the fabrication of Corian® Solid Surface were extremely helpful for the completion of our project.” explained Sheila Eilenberg, Director of Brimelow McSweeney Architects.
The fabrication of Corian® Solid Surface for the exterior cladding panels used in the project has been done by Dolphin Solutions Ltd company (www.dolphinsolutions.co.uk).
For the design of facades, Corian® Exteriors is a reliable solution that offers limitless creative possibilities to architects and designers. Besides its renowned aesthetical properties that last for years, it withstands wear, UV rays and freeze-thaw cycles while being also very easy to clean or repair in case of damage.
Corian® Solid Surface is the first and only solid surface in the world to be CE-marked for Exterior Cladding. The Corian® Design business has completed in early 2020 a European Technical Assessment (ETA) certification process concerning Corian® Solid Surface in collaboration with Deutsches Institut für Bautechnik (DIBT). This certification means that customers can count on a durable exterior cladding system that will maintain the original high performance for many years.
Other Projects
W Sydney Double-sided Washplanes
Double-Sided Corian® Solid Surface Washplanes Inside the W Sydney, a popular hotel in the heart of Darling Harbour, double-sided washplanes made of Corian® Solid Surface are redefining the guest bathroom experience. Designed for both functionality and aesthetic appeal, these washplanes offer safety, convenience, and a modern, luxurious look. Curved Corners for Safety The smooth, curved […]
Estia Health, St Ives
Located in Sydney’s northern suburbs, Estia Health, St Ives, provides premium aged care with a focus on comfort, safety, and innovation. Supporting 118 residents, including 18 memory care places, the facility offers tailored care services such as short-term respite, long-term residential care, reablement, and dementia care. A Tailored Living Experience Residents at Estia Health, St […]
Calacatta Greige Kitchen
At the heart of this kitchen design is a Corian® Calacatta Greige benchtop and splashback combination. The benchtop stretches across the kitchen with a clean, smooth finish that highlights the beauty of its creamy base and delicate veining. This continuous surface flows effortlessly up the wall to form the splashback, creating a sleek, cohesive look. […]
T2 Heinemann Project
Heinemann Oceania transformed their retail space within Sydney Airport’s T2 and T3 domestic terminals, introducing a department store experience for domestic travellers—a first for Australian travel retail. This project aimed to blend high-end shopping with the bustling airport environment, creating an elegant and functional space for travellers. For Terminal 2, the design was inspired by […]
Alfred Lane House Infectious Diseases
The Alfred Lane House Infectious Diseases Project at the Alfred Hospital has transformed a once under-utilised 1960s brick building into a modern, inclusive space that is designed to facilitate the recovery and rehabilitation of HIV-positive patients. This newly developed space supports an innovative model of care that allows patients with compromised immune systems, who often […]
Mantra Apartments Darwin NT
The refit of the penthouse apartment on Level 28 of Mantra Pandanas in Darwin, NT, presented an exciting opportunity to elevate an already luxurious space to new heights. The project encompassed a complete overhaul of the living zone, including new flooring, ceiling finishes, joinery, lighting, fans, and wall treatments. The goal was to transform this […]
Audrey Residence
The design of the Audrey Residence masterfully balances the principles of architecture with the beauty of nature. Situated on a sand dune overlooking Bate Bay, Audrey Residence is a stunning addition to Cronulla’s iconic oceanfront. It offers luxurious, relaxed living and sets a new benchmark in high-end beachside residences with generous floor plans and exquisite […]
Motor Yacht More
Boat Style embarked on a comprehensive interior and exterior refit of a 44-metre Benetti Vision superyacht. Central to the redesign was a transformation of the Main Saloon, where a large entertainment cabinet and timber dining table were removed to create a more open and functional space. In their place, a ceiling lift widescreen television and […]
Willoughby Bathroom
Tranquil Bathroom Renovation: A Serene Escape This Willoughby home recently underwent a stunning transformation in both the main bathroom and ensuite, creating tranquil retreats perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. The design features soothing shades of grey, blending seamlessly with neutral tones to evoke a peaceful and calming atmosphere. One bathroom features a minimalist single basin, […]
Souths Merewether
Souths Merewether, a prominent club located just minutes from Newcastle’s CBD, has undergone significant renovations, transforming its interior spaces to reflect a more contemporary and inviting atmosphere. The refurbishment brings together the latest in design and functionality, offering patrons a premium experience in comfort and aesthetics. One of the most impressive updates can be found […]
Vicinity Centre Cranbourne Park
Vicinity Centre Cranbourne Park, a single-level regional shopping centre located approximately 51 km southeast of Melbourne’s CBD, has recently upgraded its bathroom facilities. With 47% of visitors identified as families with children, as reported by Vicinity Data, Research & Insights, the new amenities reflect a thoughtful consideration of these demographics. A key feature of the […]
EscapadeHFB
A new state-of-the-art hair and beauty salon has been introduced in Granville, NSW, featuring a bold, modern design that harmonises light, function, and texture. The salon embraces black as the new white, creating a sophisticated and moody atmosphere that exudes luxury and exclusivity. The project involved transforming a challenging 40-meter-long property, aiming to create a […]
Brighton East Home
Located in Brighton East, this stunning open living home is a beacon of modern design. With ample natural light pouring through large windows and expansive glass sliding doors that open directly to the backyard, the interior spaces are bathed in a warm, inviting glow. The focal point of this sophisticated home is the remarkable curved […]
Canberra Centre Parents Room
Designed as part of a new hospitality precinct, the Canberra Centre Parents Room is a highly functional space that caters to the diverse needs of parents and their children. The team at Mather Architecture have created an immersive, modern, and playful experience that focuses on inclusivity and neurodiversity. The Parent Room design adopts an inclusive […]
Potrero Hill Residence
The Potrero Hill residence, located in San Francisco is a renovation project that aims to rejuvenate a 1991 artist’s studio and dark room into a 2-bedroom residence that artfully marries elements of Japanese design with local and international influences. Designer, Brooke Aitken centered the project around an existing cherry tree, leveraging its natural beauty to […]
W Sydney Hotel
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Sydney’s Darling Harbour, the W Sydney stands as a modern marvel, redefining the essence of luxury and hospitality in one of Australia’s most beloved cities. This expansive facility provides a range of immersive attractions and amenities, catering not only to discerning travelers but also serving as a favoured social […]
Ahead of the Curve – La Casa Curvilínea
La Casa Curvilínea is truly ahead of the curve with its minimal, modern interpretation of Mediterranean design by the visionary duo, Tyson and Teegan Doherty of Doherty Building Group. This beautiful four-bedroom family home is a symphony of gentle curves, warm hues, and innovative materials. At the heart of this serene abode lies its kitchen […]
The Avenue
When it comes to home renovations, it’s not just about the visual appeal but also about functionality, durability, and most importantly, the lifestyle it supports. Situated on the south coast, “The Avenue” is a prime example of how a full home renovation can be seamlessly blended with design and practicality. Taking inspiration from its coastal […]
727 HQ Office
The 727 HQ Fitout is a bespoke two-level office located within Newcastle’s newest commercial high-rise, offering sweeping views from Newcastle Harbour to the Hunter Hinterland. Designed to harmonise with its natural surroundings, the fitout accommodates over 200 staff in a functional workspace that reflects the essence of land and sea. Corian® was selected as the […]
Moogerah Lake House
The Moogerah Lake House is an American-style lake house, designed exclusively for holiday rentals and entertaining. Situated in a picturesque location, the property exudes charm and elegance, making it a perfect getaway destination. Living Dream Kitchens, selected Corian® in the colours Witch Hazel and Cosmos Prima for various applications throughout the house, showcasing the exceptional […]
Watsons Bay House
This residence, nestled in the Watsons Bay Heritage Conservation Area, embodies a harmonious blend of traditional aesthetics and contemporary design principles. Its structure, a three-level house, pays homage to the architectural heritage of the area’s original fishing village cottages. Yet, it diverges into modernity with its innovative use of space, materials, and integration with its […]
Armadale House
Armadale House, by architect and designer Emma Selzer of Selzer Design Studio, is a stunning example of how thoughtful modern design can seamlessly blend with Edwardian architectural roots to create a family home that’s both functional and serene. This project emphasises the importance of light, materiality, and historical integrity in contemporary restoration. Emma has approached the design […]