Class A Decking System - Harrods Helideck London

Project overview

The former helideck at Harrods has been redeveloped into a luxury rooftop event space with panoramic views across central London. The design required a fully non-combustible decking system capable of achieving the same finished floor level across both the internal pavilion and the external terrace to create a seamless transition between the two areas. Wallbarn supplied the Class A rated substructure that enabled this precision.

The scheme was delivered by Kendall Kingscott Ltd as architect, TC & D Construction as specialist contractor and Fire Deck as supplier of Exadeck porcelain decking boards. Wallbarn and Fire Deck worked collaboratively to support the installation team through design development, technical detailing, site coordination and delivery planning.

Technical challenges

The existing rooftop presented height variations of up to 400 mm. Achieving a single, consistent datum that aligned perfectly with the internal finished floor level was essential for a barrier free connection between inside and out. Multiple access points, complex transitions and the introduction of ramped sections added further technical complexity.

The project programme also required the terrace to be fully operational for Harrods’ first rooftop event scheduled for late May 2025, meaning accuracy, coordination and reliable supply were critical.

The substructure solution

Wallbarn supplied a complete Class A fire rated substructure system, comprising:

• Adjustable MetalPad Ex pedestals made from steel and rated Class A under EN 13501 1
• I-Plus aluminium rails manufactured from high grade 6063 T6 extruded aluminium
• W Clip mechanical fixing system for securing the Exadeck boards to the aluminium rails
• Non-combustible Exadeck porcelain deck boards

The substructure system provided strength and consistency across the varying roof heights. Adjustable MetalPad Ex pedestals allowed installers to control every millimetre of build up so the external terrace matched the internal finished floor level. Where the design required ramped and stepped transitions, rails were cut and cross fixed to create rigid frame sections that maintained the overall finished floor level.

Precision and finish

The stacked bond layout selected by the design team required precise alignment. Even slight movement would have been noticeable. Exadeck boards are rectified on both the visible side faces and on the underside plane, ensuring tight tolerances and eliminating rocking or deviation.

When combined with the uniformly flat surface of the Wallbarn aluminium rails / joists, the installation team achieved straight, uninterrupted lines across the full deck area.

Performance was as important as appearance. The system provides long term stability for a high traffic commercial hospitality environment and event space. Exadeck porcelain boards offer excellent scratch and stain resistance and the warm wood effect finish selected by the client provides the natural aesthetic of timber without the maintenance requirements. Seventeen surface patterns create subtle variation across the terrace while maintaining a coherent visual tone.

Outcome

The completed project meets the fire safety requirements of Approved Document B and BS 8579. The system delivers a stable, durable and visually luxurious terrace befitting one of the most recognisable names in global retail. The ability of the Wallbarn substructure to achieve a level and seamless connection between the pavilion interior and the external terrace was central to the success of the scheme, enabling a premium event space delivered on time and to the exacting standards of the project team.

Key performance criteria

Fully non-combustible Class A rated system

Precise alignment with internal & external finished floor level

Robust construction suitable for commercial footfall

High dimensional stability and tolerance control

Durable, low maintenance system