Case Study Transforming the Sirius Building: How Stormtech Tailored Drainage Solutions Revitalized a Brutalist Icon

Introduction: The Unique Challenges of the Sirius Building Retrofit

The Sirius building, originally conceived as a social housing project, stands as a testament to the Brutalist architectural style. However, transforming this iconic structure into a contemporary space posed unique challenges, particularly in terms of drainage. With its unconventional layouts and varying bathroom configurations, the retrofit required innovative solutions that respected the building’s historic character while meeting modern luxury and functionality standards. Stormtech emerged as the ideal partner to navigate these complexities, offering tailored drainage systems that seamlessly integrated into the building's design ethos.

Complex Drainage Challenges

The Sirius building's unique design presented specific drainage challenges that required a sophisticated approach.

• Non-standard Layouts: The absence of traditional risers, stacks, and uniform levels necessitated bespoke drainage solutions. Each space demanded a unique approach to waste management, challenging the traditional drainage conventions.
• Varying Bathroom Configurations: The diverse bathroom layouts meant that a one-size-fits-all solution was not feasible. Each bathroom required a tailored approach to ensure effective water management and seamless integration with the building’s overall design.
• Integration Across Different Settings: Beyond bathrooms, drainage solutions were needed in penthouse ensuites and pool areas. These solutions not only had to function effectively but also align aesthetically with the building’s copper and concrete palette

Stormtech's Innovative Solutions

Stormtech's expertise in customized drainage systems proved instrumental in addressing these challenges through three key strategies:

1. Customized Drainage Systems

Stormtech designed and manufactured bespoke drainage solutions tailored to the Sirius project’s unique needs. This included custom widths and finishes for architectural stainless steel grates and channels. The grates, ranging from 1200 mm to 3000 mm in length, were crafted into complex shapes, including L-shapes, to match the building's unconventional layouts. A custom tile-insert drain for the pool area was also developed, blending seamlessly with its surroundings.

2. Innovative Design Integration

Incorporating integrated shower screen supports into the strip drains eliminated the need for floor steps and reduced core drilling. The 230mm-wide custom strip drain was pivotal for flexible placement of floor wastes in various bathroom locations, crucial for the retrofit’s unique design requirements. This integration not only simplified installation but also maintained the building’s aesthetic integrity.

3. Material and Finish Excellence

Choosing PVD-finished drains ensured high corrosion resistance, aligning with the project’s durability needs. Bronze and black finishes were selected to complement the building’s copper-led palette and refined design ethos, elevating the drains to the status of artistic elements. This attention to material and finish not only enhanced the durability of the drainage systems but also ensured their aesthetic harmony with the building's architecture.

Outcomes: A Modern Architectural Marvel

Stormtech’s tailored solutions effectively addressed the unique challenges of retrofitting the Sirius building. By combining technical innovation with aesthetic sensitivity, the company played a crucial role in transforming the building into a contemporary, functional, and visually stunning architectural marvel. The drainage systems exemplified how bespoke engineering can resolve complex issues while enhancing design integrity.

• Aesthetic and Functional Harmony: The customized solutions ensured that the drainage systems were not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, aligning with the building’s overall design ethos.
• Enhanced Usability: The solutions provided effective water management, ensuring the long-term usability of the building, even in its most complex spaces.
• Increased Brand Reputation: Stormtech’s successful execution of this project reinforced its reputation as an expert, innovator, and reliable manufacturer in the field of drainage solutions.