NELSON PLACE IS TOP OF THE CLASS AT LETTING IN LIGHT

Nelson Place, one of Northern Ireland’s largest student accommodation developments, has used Brett Martin’s Glass Link rooflight system above one of the building’s atriums. The rooflight has introduced high levels of natural daylight, a key design requirement that played a fundamental role in enhancing student wellbeing, boosting concentration and creating a healthy environment for learning and living.

The 12-storey Nelson Place shows how thoughtful design and high-performance building solutions can transform educational environments. A key focus was student wellbeing, with the building’s design prioritising flexibility, social connection and active use across the recreational spaces. This is shown through the integration of communal lounges, study zones and Ulster University’s state-of-the-art sports centre.

With its blend of red brick, metal cladding and glass, the building establishes a lively and visually striking presence along the street. Brett Martin’s 20 fixed module Glass Link rooflight system was selected by the architectural team at Fletcher Joseph after being recommended by the project’s contractor.

The aim was to complement the building’s overall design while introducing natural daylight above the atrium, which connects the communal area and sports centre.

Sandy Deans, Associate Director at Fletcher Joseph, said: “This was our first time working with Brett Martin products and we were highly impressed with both the finish and the overall success of the atrium, which has received excellent feedback.

“The product’s performance, durability and adaptability allowed us to create naturally lit communal circulation spaces while preserving the architectural clarity of the central atrium.”

Manufactured to specific requirements and easy to fit, Brett Martin’s Glass Link rooflight is available in special glass options, including solar control, tinted, obscure and self-cleaning.