INCA Case Study: Digital Media Centre, Leicester

Introduction

The Digital Media Centre project in Leicester showcases technical excellence, system innovation, and collaborative delivery. This high-rise refurbishment, completed under challenging conditions, is a strong example of K Systems’ ability to design and install complex Eternal Wall Insulation (EWI) systems that meet the highest standards of safety, durability and visual appeal.

Project Background

The Digital Media Centre is a mixed-use, high-rise building in Leicester that required urgent refurbishment due to the failure of an existing PIR EWI system.

The original cladding was stripped back entirely, brickwork was broken out, PIR removed, and a new steel framing system installed to create a secure base for a modern external façade.

Working on a live building, with residents in constant occupancy, presented a series of logistical and safety-related challenges. Maintaining access and minimising disruption were key priorities throughout, and the project team worked carefully to ensure that all residents remained safe and fully-informed as work progressed.

System Design and Performance

To meet the fire safety demands of a high-rise structure and align with post-Grenfell regulations, the K Systems Exicco M drained cavity system was specified.

It incorporated 80mm of non-combustible mineral wool insulation with a silicone TC15 render finish. Not only did this meet the strict performance and compliance criteria required for high-rise refurbishment, including fire breaks, fire-rated fixings and robust quality documentation for the Building Safety Regulator, but it also allowed for a visually appealing finish in three complementary colours – cream, white, and grey, particularly effective around window openings and balcony details.

The drained cavity design provided vital moisture management on a building of this height, preventing water ingress, offering a secondary defence to moisture via the drained cavity and improving the long-term integrity of the façade.

The system also offered enough design flexibility to accommodate the varied elevations of the building, which ranged in complexity and required bespoke detailing across multiple areas.

Installation Challenges

The installation was delivered over the course of 7,000 working hours, with a number of obstacles overcome along the way.

One of the first major challenges involved scaffold levels not matching the original construction plans. This required the team to adapt quickly using podiums, hop-ups and delta decks to maintain access, ensure safe working conditions and achieve a consistent finish acceptable to the client and residents.

Sequencing the works around existing balconies was another critical element. Render had to be completed ahead of balcony installation, requiring precise planning and coordination.

Elsewhere, the team had to manage the replacement of cappings and ensure expansion was accounted for with the inclusion of compression joints and movement beads every two floors.

Insulating inside pre-installed duct rises proved particularly difficult due to access restrictions and the presence of steelworks. Weather interruptions and the unexpected presence of nesting pigeons added further complexity, requiring schedule adjustments to protect wildlife and meet regulatory obligations.

Despite these challenges, the site remained active throughout, with residents in situ. The professionalism and sensitivity of the site team ensured that the works were carried out with minimal disturbance. As a result, there were no complaints from residents or the wider public, an impressive achievement in itself on a project of this scale.

Project Outcomes

The final result is a significantly enhanced building, both visually and functionally. The new façade not only improves thermal performance and achieves an A2-s1, d0 fire rating for enhanced fire safety, but also ensures full compliance with current building regulations while delivering a cleaner, more modern aesthetic that complements its urban surroundings.

The success of the installation was made possible through close collaboration with contractors, architects and the client, supported throughout by the responsive technical team at K Systems.

Testimonial

“Working alongside K Systems for the refurbishment of the Digital Media Centre was a pleasure. As with any occupied building project, especially one of this scale, managing works around residents posed significant logistical and communication challenges. However, K Systems’ approach really helped smooth the process.

“Their technical and on-site support was excellent throughout. Their team was readily available to advise at all stages of the project and help us stay aligned with all BSF compliance and regulatory requirements.

“A really successful project and we look forward to working with K Systems again in future projects.”

Rob Jackson, Project Manager, The ALD Group.

Conclusion

The Digital Media Centre refurbishment highlights the very best of what K Systems delivers – technically advanced systems, exceptional site support, and the ability to overcome complex challenges in high-pressure environments. Importantly, the upgrade also ensures residents benefit from safer, more energy-efficient, and warmer homes.

It stands as a model of effective EWI installation in the post-BSF regulatory landscape and exemplifies our position as a leading provider in the external wall insulation sector.