KX-S3

Emtec were appointed to design, manufacture and install a bespoke aluminium tiled feature wall at the King’s Cross S3 Laneway development, based on a concept design by Jason Bruges Studio. The installation forms a key architectural feature within the public realm, combining art, lighting and façade engineering to create a distinctive visual statement.

The system comprises prefabricated aluminium backing panels with tessellating aluminium tiles, developed specifically to suit the geometric language of the original concept. While the artistic design intent was led by Jason Bruges Studio, Emtec undertook the detailed design of the tile fabrication, fixing methodology and support structure to translate the vision into a practical and manufacturable solution.

A key challenge of the project was developing a repeatable method of fabricating the faceted aluminium tiles while maintaining the precise geometry required for the visual effect. In addition, the interface with integrated LED lighting required careful coordination to ensure that lighting positions aligned with the tile layout, without compromising the clean, uninterrupted appearance of the façade.

Emtec developed a modular panel system, with tiles fixed off-site to aluminium backing panels to ensure quality and consistency. These panels were mounted onto a secondary support system of horizontal rails and adjustable brackets, allowing accurate installation and tolerance adjustment on site. Bespoke apertures and removable tile elements were incorporated to accommodate the LED lighting and maintenance requirements.

Further complexity arose at interfaces with doors, windows and adjacent façade elements, where the tiling geometry had to be carefully resolved to maintain visual continuity. Emtec worked closely with the wider design team to coordinate these details and ensure the integrity of both the architectural intent and the buildability of the system.

Through detailed design development and off-site fabrication, the installation was delivered efficiently while achieving a high-quality finish. The completed feature wall successfully realises the artistic vision, demonstrating how specialist façade engineering can translate complex design concepts into durable, buildable solutions.