Harrods Helideck Transformation: A Class A Fire-Rated Rooftop Event Space

The former helideck at Harrods has been reimagined as a luxury rooftop event space with panoramic views across London’s skyline. Positioned above one of the world’s most recognisable retail landmarks, the new terrace needed to respect the heritage of the building while integrating seamlessly with a newly constructed internal pavilion.

The architect specified a fully compliant, Class A fire-rated decking solution capable of meeting stringent fire regulations without compromising on aesthetic quality. Wallbarn was appointed to provide the complete Class A fire-rated substructure, working in partnership with Fire Deck, who supplied Exadeck porcelain decking boards. Together, the teams supported the specialist contractor to deliver a technically ambitious and visually exceptional scheme.

A High-Profile Collaboration

This prestigious rooftop redevelopment brought together leading expertise at every level. Harrods acted as client, with Kendall Kingscott Ltd leading the architectural design and TC&D Construction managing the on-site installation.

Wallbarn and Fire Deck worked closely with the contractor from the early planning stages, providing:

• Layout options and design input

• Technical guidance on build-ups and fire compliance

• Site visits and hands-on support

• Coordinated delivery scheduling

This collaborative approach ensured the system met regulatory, structural and visual requirements while staying on programme for Harrods’ first rooftop event in May 2025.

Overcoming Complex Rooftop Challenges

The helideck presented several significant technical challenges:

• Varying floor heights of up to 400mm

• The need for seamless transitions between interior and exterior areas

• Multiple complex access points across the roof

• Tight installation deadlines

The rooftop structure required a substructure capable of accommodating height variations without sacrificing stability or compliance. Precision detailing was also critical to maintain flawless sightlines across the expansive terrace.

Engineering the Class A Substructure

To address these challenges, Wallbarn supplied its Class A fire-rated system built around the I-Plus aluminium rail framework and MetalPad Ex pedestals.

The secure fixing capability of the pedestals enabled installers to construct a stable, adjustable framework to support the porcelain decking. The system was particularly valuable in areas where:

• Ramped sections were required

• Rails had to be cut to precise angles

• Cross-fixing was needed to form rigid structural frames

Using 60mm wide aluminium joists as the foundation ensured consistent support across the entire terrace. These joists provided perfectly flat planes for installation, a critical factor in achieving the required visual precision.

Once the framework was complete, Exadeck boards were secured using the Class A W Clip fixing system, delivering a secure, non-combustible and luxurious finish.

Precision in a Demanding Layout

The design team selected a stacked bond layout — a visually striking configuration that demands exceptional accuracy. Even minimal misalignment would have been highly visible across such a prominent rooftop setting.

This potential issue was addressed through the advanced manufacturing of the Exadeck boards. Each board underwent a double-rectification process:

• Rectified on the side planes

• Rectified on the underside planes

These additional manufacturing steps ensured the boards were perfectly straight and dimensionally consistent. By eliminating movement and rocking, the system allowed installers to achieve crisp alignment across the entire terrace.

When combined with Wallbarn’s flat aluminium joists and tight dimensional tolerances, installation was simplified compared with many alternative systems on the UK market. The result is a series of clean, uninterrupted lines that draw the eye across the rooftop and enhance the overall sense of luxury.

Aesthetic Warmth with Structural Strength

While fire compliance and structural integrity were essential, the visual impact of the space was equally important. Exadeck’s wood-effect porcelain finish provided the warm, natural aesthetic desired by the client, complementing both the historic Harrods façade and the contemporary pavilion structure.

With 17 different surface patterns incorporated across the boards, the decking achieves a realistic wood grain and knot appearance, enhancing authenticity and visual richness.

At the same time, the system offers:

• Superior scratch resistance

• High stain resistance

• Exceptional durability under heavy foot traffic

• Minimal maintenance requirements

This makes it ideally suited to a rooftop event space expected to host frequent gatherings and high visitor numbers.

Built for Performance and Experience

Beyond visual appeal, performance in all weather conditions was vital. The completed system is:

• Fully Class A fire-rated

• Structurally robust

• Resistant to weather exposure

• Quiet under rainfall

• Stable across varied build-up heights

The terrace provides a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor environments, maintaining consistent levels and finishes throughout.

Importantly, the system’s strength and durability ensure it can withstand sustained use while retaining its premium appearance — a critical consideration for an ultra-luxury hospitality setting.

A Landmark Rooftop Achievement

Transforming a former helideck into a refined rooftop event destination required careful planning, technical expertise and seamless collaboration. Through the integration of Wallbarn’s Class A fire-rated substructure and Exadeck porcelain decking, the project team delivered a space that meets exacting fire regulations while achieving the flawless finish expected at a globally recognised landmark.

The new rooftop space offers panoramic views across London and provides Harrods with a resilient, elegant platform for high-profile events. It stands as a testament to how advanced fire-rated systems, precision engineering and refined aesthetics can combine to create a truly iconic result.