Ocmis worked closely with Hyland
Edgar Driver to develop a water feature to suit the scale of the new Heathrow
Terminal 5. The 39 meter high glass façade conveys power and modernity.
Positioned in between the terminal and car park, the Interchange Plaza is an intimate space with mature trees and planting that allows visitors to spend
time relaxing. Positioned adjacent to the main pedestrian routes between the
car park and the terminal the dry plaza fountain provides animation, light and
sound.
The 55 Choreoswitch™
waterswitches are linked to 11 pumps located in a purpose built basement plant
room beneath the Plaza. The combination of individual nozzle switching and
control of the pumps enables Ocmis to programme displays to suit any occasion.
The switches are linked to a DMX unit that also controls the 110 colour
changing LED lights integrated into the nozzle housings. Displays can be fast
and energetic with dramatic colours or subdued and gentle.
The scheme took three years to
develop from the design concept to the start of construction. Ocmis were
contracted to Laing O’Rourke and worked closely with them to deliver the
project safely, on programme and on budget. Building standards at Heathrow
Terminal 5 were exacting and it was an exciting challenge for the Ocmis design
team and engineers to work to the rigorous standards.