Contractor has come up with solution to deal with facade issues at Tapestry Building, developer says

Argent is set to carry out structural repairs at a Niall McLaughlin Architects housing block in King’s Cross after a section of the building’s cladding fell off.

The facade of the Tapestry Building, designed by the 2022 Stirling Prize-winning architect in 2016, is still being held in place by straps more than eight months after the issues emerged.

A spokesperson for developer Argent said Kier, which built the scheme, had now completed its investigations of the 130-home block with Arup providing independent oversight.

Tapestry building Oct 9

The Tapestry building features a mix of housing types and was completed by Kier seven years ago

“These investigations have led to the development of a remedial solution, which has been agreed in principle.

“We are now working through the details of this, including the delivery plan and timescales,” the spokesperson said.

“Once we have a clear way forward, we will update residents as a priority,” Argent said, adding that any remedial solution will “be taken forward at no cost to residents”.

The occupied 15-storey block includes both high-end market housing and social housing along with a restaurant, cafe and an energy centre for the wider King’s Cross development.

The building was handed an RIBA London award in 2017 and praised for its “exquisite, sculpted facade” which consists of patterned terracotta panels made of lightweight, glass reinforced concrete panels.

Cladding specialist Techrete was the facade engineer on the scheme, working alongside structural engineer Ramboll, QS Gardiner & Theobald and glazing firm Glass Solutions. Landscape Architect Dan Pearson designed the scheme’s roof garden. Niall Mclaughlin Architects was the concept architect.

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