From Design to Installation – How Wallbarn Delivered a Complete Decking System at Meridian House

Delivering a successful refurbishment project requires more than just high-quality materials—it demands a coordinated system that works seamlessly from design through to installation. At Meridian House, Wallbarn played a central role in providing not just individual components, but a fully integrated decking solution tailored to the unique challenges of the site.

This project showcases how a complete system approach can simplify complex installations, reduce risk, and ensure long-term performance. You can view the full project breakdown here:
Meridian House Non-Combustible Decking Refurbishment

The Value of a Complete System Approach

In many construction and refurbishment projects, sourcing components from multiple suppliers can lead to compatibility issues, delays, and inconsistent performance. Meridian House avoided these risks by utilising a comprehensive system from Wallbarn.

This included:

• Substructure components
• Fixings and brackets
• Adjustable supports
• Surface decking materials

By working with a single, coordinated system, the project team benefited from:

• Guaranteed compatibility between components
• Streamlined installation processes
• Reduced risk of on-site errors
• Greater confidence in long-term performance

This holistic approach was particularly valuable given the varied and complex conditions across the site.

Design Collaboration: Turning Challenges into Solutions

From the outset, the project required close collaboration between designers, engineers, and suppliers. The presence of suspended decking areas, wide spans, and mixed balcony configurations meant that no single “off-the-shelf” solution would suffice.

Wallbarn supported the design process by recommending systems that could adapt to each scenario, including:

• MetalPad EX for adjustable balcony installations
• I-Plus Beam systems for structural support
• Box Rail components for reinforcement
• Joist Hanger brackets for mechanical fixing

This collaborative approach ensured that every area of the project was addressed with the most appropriate solution.

Simplifying Installation Across Multiple Environments

One of the standout aspects of the Meridian House project was the variety of installation conditions. Each area required a slightly different approach, yet all needed to deliver consistent results.

Standard Balcony Installations

In areas with a concrete base, installation was relatively straightforward. Adjustable pedestal systems such as MetalPad EX allowed installers to quickly achieve a level surface while supporting the aluminium substructure.

This method offered:

• Fast installation times
• Precise height adjustment
• Reliable load distribution

Mechanically Fixed Balcony Systems

Where pedestal systems were not suitable, the aluminium joists were fixed directly to the building structure. This required careful alignment and secure fixing, but the modular nature of Wallbarn’s components made the process efficient and reliable.

Overcoming the Podium Deck Challenge

The podium deck presented the most complex installation scenario. Suspended above a car park with no concrete base, the system had to be built entirely from the existing steel framework.

Here, the use of Joist Hangers allowed installers to attach the substructure directly to steel beams. This created a secure foundation for the decking system, even in the absence of traditional support.

The addition of multi-layered aluminium rails, combining I-Plus and Box Rail systems, further enhanced stability and load distribution.

Precision Engineering Meets Practical Installation

While the design of the substructure was highly engineered, it was equally important that the system remained practical to install on-site.

Wallbarn’s components are designed with installation efficiency in mind, featuring:

• Pre-engineered connection points
• Compatible brackets and fixings
• Modular components that fit together 

This reduced the need for on-site modifications and allowed installers to work more efficiently, even in challenging conditions.

A High-Performance Surface Finish

Once the substructure was in place, attention turned to the final surface. The project utilised Porcelain Decking to deliver a premium finish that meets both aesthetic and performance requirements.

The boards were installed using a hidden clip system, ensuring:

• A clean, modern appearance
• Secure fixing without visible screws
• Protection of fixings from environmental exposure

This approach not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to the long-term durability of the installation.

Consistency Across the Entire Project

Despite the varying installation methods and structural conditions, one of the key achievements of the Meridian House refurbishment was the consistency of the final result.

This was made possible by:

• Using a single, integrated system
• Maintaining consistent material quality
• Ensuring all components met the same performance standards

The result is a cohesive finish across balconies and the podium deck, providing a unified look and feel throughout the development.

Long-Term Benefits of a System-Based Solution

By choosing a complete system rather than individual components, the project delivers benefits that extend well beyond the installation phase.

These include:

• Reduced maintenance requirements
• Improved durability and lifespan
• Enhanced safety and compliance
• Simplified future repairs or upgrades

For property managers and residents, this translates into lower long-term costs and greater peace of mind.

Supporting Complex Refurbishment Projects

Meridian House is a clear example of how Wallbarn’s systems can support complex refurbishment projects where traditional methods fall short.

Key takeaways from the project include:

• The importance of adaptable solutions in refurbishment settings
• The value of integrating design and installation processes
• The role of high-quality components in achieving consistent results

By addressing these factors, Wallbarn helped ensure the success of a project that required both technical expertise and practical execution.

Conclusion

The Meridian House refurbishment demonstrates the power of a complete, integrated decking system. From initial design through to final installation, Wallbarn’s products played a crucial role in overcoming challenges and delivering a high-quality result.

By combining innovative substructure systems, fire-rated components, and premium surface materials, the project team was able to create a safe, durable, and visually striking outdoor space.

For developers, architects, and contractors facing similar challenges, this project highlights the benefits of choosing a system-based approach—one that delivers not just individual components, but a fully coordinated solution built for performance and longevity.