Built by Sir Alfred Bird, the inventor of instant custard, around a century ago to manufacture his famous dessert, the Custard Factory has been revamped as an arts and media quarter for Birmingham. To provide high quality access to essential building services in the development’s entrance atrium, 5000 Series floor access panels from Howe Green were selected for their outstanding reputation.

A 600 yard walk from Birmingham’s famous Bullring shopping centre, the Custard Factory is yet another exciting addition to the city’s centre. The brief for this collection of early 20th-century industrial and office premises, spanning five acres, was to convert the buildings into affordable, attractive workspaces and to create an environment in which small creative companies could interact and support each other. Key to this was the emphasis on public open space and interesting common areas, central to which was the courtyard and lake, flanked by cafés and shops and overlooked by many of the studios.

Designed by Glenn Howells Architects, the impressive redevelopment of the Custard Factory was delivered by main contractor Vinci. Specialist subcontractors DSM Flooring completed the various flooring requirements throughout the project, including the installation of the Howe Green access panels necessary to provide access to essential building services located under the floor of the building.

The Howe Green access panels were specified for the company’s widely held reputation as the leading supplier and producer of floor, ceiling and wall access covers. As it was expected that the flooring would be subject to quite

heavy foot traffic, as well as the frequent passage of trolleys, the access panels needed to be durable and reliable and it was decided that five of Howe Green’s 5000 Series aluminium panels would meet the requirements.

In keeping with the high aesthetic standards of the Custard Factory, DSM Flooring inlaid tiles within the covers, matching the existing white porcelain tiles of the floor for an uninterrupted and seamless finish. Laid into the substrate flush with floor level, the panels provide excellent access to building services whilst not presenting a trip hazard. Tamper resistant features provide additional security, whilst double sealing at the edges makes for perfect hygiene.

All of Howe Green’s access panels are built to order at no extra time or cost to the client. Corrosion resistant thanks to their aluminium build, 5000 Series panels are available in a standard depth of 50mm. With inset lifting points, they are easily raised for access to building services with the use of supplied keys.

Darren McCann of DSM Flooring commented, “The Howe Green panels were a perfect fit for the job. Not only will they provide lasting access to services but they ensure that the floor of the entrance hall looks great too. As far as we were concerned the project was a complete success and we look forward to working with Howe Green again.”

Popular with specifiers and installers, Howe Green’s reputation has seen its products used across the nation on some of the most demanding and high-spec projects. By using the company’s 5000 Series panels on the Custard Factory, the stylish precinct has ensured impeccable aesthetics and long lasting access to its vital building services.