Case Studies

Canal Quarter, Cardiff

Products:
ORBIS OS211 316 Grade Polished Stainless Steel Glass Infill Top Fix Balustrade

Contractor: Knights Brown
Architect: AtkinsRéalis

Cardiff Canal Quarter’s £8.5M regeneration transformed a buried 19th-century dock feeder canal into a vibrant public space, blending industrial heritage with modern urban design. Delta Balustrades were awarded the balustrades package on the project and delivered Glass Balustrades with access gates, and complementary free-standing handrails, ensuring safety across the canal’s pedestrian zones, performance areas, and cycling routes, complimented by un-obstructed views of the water system below.

Delta Balustrades’ Contribution

Delta’s proprietary ORBIS balustrade systems were strategically deployed across key areas of the centre to maximise natural light and maintain a safe environment:

Primary System: ORBIS OS211 Balustrade
- Material: 316-grade polished stainless steel (marine-grade corrosion resistance)
- Design: Top-fix glass infill (11mm heat soaked laminated glass)
- Application: Canal-edge barriers, sunken seating zones, and raised performance areas
Secondary System: Free-standing stainless steel handrails
- Finish: Polished to match ORBIS OS211 for visual consistency
- Function: Guided pedestrian stair access

Challenges & Solutions

Confined Site Constraints
With the canal built above a Victorian brick sewer, the installation demanded accuracy. Delta’s proprietary ORBIS system allowed:
1. Pre-Engineered Components: Rapid assembly on-site, minimising disruption.

Safety & Accessibility
Cardiff Council prioritised inclusive design for cyclists, pedestrians, and event attendees. Delta delivered:
1. 1.1m Height Compliance: Met current UK building regulations across all balustrades.
2. Smooth Transitions: Seamless integration of free-standing handrails, gates and our ORBIS glass balustrade at meeting points.

Closing Remark

Delta Balustrades combines precision engineering with sustainable design to deliver solutions that respect heritage and meet modern demands. The Cardiff Canal Quarter project exemplifies how stainless steel and glass systems can seamlessly integrate historic preservation with contemporary safety standards, creating enduring public spaces built for long-term environmental and community benefit.

Image Credits: Knights Brown