G.S Stothers recently completed work on Vue Cinema, located within CastleCourt Shopping Centre. We were responsible for the design, supply, installation and commissioning of the natural smoke ventilation systems.

Vue has been completed with the latest natural smoke ventilation system that ensures a constant supply of fresh air for movie-goers. The system is designed to harness the power of the wind and pressure differences to vent smoke through external walls and roofs using windows, louvres, and roof lights, or through internal smoke shafts with smoke dampers.

Natural smoke ventilation systems are designed to extract smoke and heat from a building in the event of a fire, promoting a safe environment for occupants and aiding firefighting on entering the building.

These systems rely on the principle of buoyancy, utilising the natural movement of hot smoke to rise and escape through specially designed openings, such as smoke vents or windows. Fresh air is then drawn into the building at lower levels to replace the expelled smoke, creating a flow of air that helps to control the spread of fire and reduce the build-up of harmful gases.

Natural smoke ventilation systems are often preferred for their energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness, as they rely on natural forces rather than mechanical components, minimising the need for ongoing power consumption and maintenance.

The design and implementation of natural smoke ventilation systems require careful consideration of factors such as building layout, fire strategy, and regulatory requirements.

The system is a crucial safety feature in a cinema, ensuring that in the event of a fire, smoke can be quickly and safely removed from the building. The natural ventilation method also helps to reduce the energy consumption of the building, making it more eco-friendly.