The Cheesegrater - Fire Safety Solutions at 122 Leadenhall Building

Designing fire safety solutions for tall buildings presents unique challenges for architects. These structures require seamless integration of fire and smoke barriers without compromising the building’s design, structural integrity, or the safety of occupants. The 122 Leadenhall Building, known as the Cheesegrater, is a prime example of how innovative fire safety solutions can support architectural vision. Designed by the acclaimed architectural firm Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners (RSHP), the building’s unique tapered form and cutting-edge design demanded a bespoke approach to fire safety. Coopers Fire partnered with RSHP to deliver a tailored system of fire curtains and smoke barriers, addressing the complexities of high-rise safety while respecting the architects’ vision.

Challenges in High-Rise Fire Safety Architects working on tall buildings like the Cheese Grater face several key challenges:

• Space Constraints: High-rise designs often require compact fire safety systems that do not encroach on valuable floor space.
• Aesthetic Considerations: Maintaining the visual appeal of iconic structures is crucial, requiring fire safety solutions that integrate seamlessly without disrupting design aesthetics.
• Stringent Safety Standards: Fire and smoke management systems must comply with rigorous standards to ensure safe evacuation routes and compartmentation.

The project at 122 Leadenhall Building exemplified these challenges, with its distinctive tapered shape and high occupancy demanding a robust and visually unobtrusive fire safety solution.

Innovative Solutions for High-Rise Safety Coopers Fire provided a comprehensive solution tailored to meet these challenges, featuring:

• BS 8524-1 (FM+2) SS / FireMaster® Plus² Active Fire Barriers: The FireMaster® Plus² curtains, compliant with BS 8524-1, are designed for compact installation, providing high-performance fire resistance without taking up critical space. These barriers contain and compartmentalise fire, minimising spread and maximising evacuation time—crucial in tall buildings.
• Rollers and ERU2 Controllers: To ensure smooth and reliable deployment, the fire curtains were paired with advanced rollers and ERU2 controllers. These systems are engineered for rapid activation during emergencies, ensuring effective fire containment across multiple floors.
• Emergency Retract Button: An essential feature in high-rise buildings, this button allows for manual retraction of fire curtains, providing a safe exit for occupants and first responders when needed.
• Smoke Barriers and Rollers: Smoke control is critical in tall buildings, where visibility in escape routes can be rapidly compromised. The smoke barriers installed in the Cheese Grater channel smoke away from evacuation paths, maintaining clear egress routes and supporting the overall fire safety strategy.
• Vii Fire Controllers: These intelligent controllers ensure precise operation of smoke barriers, allowing architects and building managers to optimize smoke management throughout the building, even during power loss scenarios.

RSHP Awards

2018 RIBA National Award

2018 RIBA London Award 2018

2017 The British Constructional Steelwork Association Awards, Main National Award Winner and Special Award for Best Overall Project

2016 BCO Best Design Innovation Award 2016 shortlist

2016 BCO Best Commercial Workplace in the UK

2016 NLA Best Commercial Building

2015 British Council for Offices Innovation Award

2015 British Council for Offices ‘Best Commercial Office London and the South East’

2015 City of London Building of the Year

2011 Pre-certified BREEAM Excellent Rating

2011 Working (Unbuilt category): NLA Awards

Results: A Safer, Compliant High-Rise

The bespoke fire and smoke barrier solution provided by Coopers Fire successfully addressed the unique safety needs of the 122 Leadenhall Building. The installation not only enhanced fire safety but also aligned with the building’s aesthetic and structural requirements. The result is a fire protection system that:

• Supports Efficient Evacuation: The integrated smoke and fire barriers provide effective compartmentation, containing fire and managing smoke to maintain safe escape routes across the building.
• Ensures Compliance with Fire Safety Standards: Coopers Fire’s products meet the strict BS 8524-1 standards, ensuring that the Cheesegrater remains compliant with UK fire safety regulations.
• Preserves Architectural Design: By working closely with the project architects, Coopers Fire delivered a system that aligns with the building’s design vision while providing cutting-edge fire protection.

Setting the Standard for Fire Safety in Tall Buildings

The 122 Leadenhall Building demonstrates the importance of specialised fire safety solutions in modern high-rise architecture. Coopers Fire’s tailored approach addressed the challenges that architects face, from space constraints to regulatory compliance, while ensuring the safety of occupants. With a focus on innovation and quality, Coopers Fire has reinforced its position as a leader in fire protection for tall buildings.