The Shield, Newcastle

Located just east of Newcastle City Centre, The Shield is a standout example of urban regeneration done right. Set on a site previously home to industrial units, a brick office, and a warehouse, this £18.4m student accommodation project has breathed new life into the area - creating high-quality housing for over four hundred students in a thriving academic hub.

The development consists of three distinct blocks, stepping from seven storeys on Stoddard Street down to four storeys on Clarence Street. Together, they form a dynamic streetscape that balances height and mass with a soft material palette.

Framing views, maximising light

To complement the building's mix of brick and bronze coloured cladding, TECHNAL Visible Frame open out windows were installed throughout. These aluminium windows were vertically configured to create strong visual rhythm, providing a striking contrast to the cladding's horizontal bands.

Alongside their architectural contribution, the windows also support the development's focus on comfort and safety. Most are side-hung open-out styles, with selected top-hung vents, all fitted with TECHNAL hardware - including locking handles and releasable restrictors - for controlled ventilation and peace of mind.

A curtain wall designed for flexibility

To flood communal areas with natural daylight and add further interest to the building facade, TECHNAL Visible Grid curtain walling was specified at ground level and upper floors. This was arranged in a zig-zag pattern on alternating levels, adding visual movement and depth to the design.

Built for long-term performance

With a refined palette of materials and high-performing aluminium systems throughout, The Shield is a robust and future-proof development. The use of TECHNAL products helped deliver a building that meets the demands of modern student life, both visually and practically.

Whether it's maximising daylight, enhancing comfort, or improving environmental performance, the TECHNAL products specified on this project work together seamlessly to support better living and long-term value.