At SMART Balustrades, we’re proud to work with some of the UK’s most trusted construction firms to bring community-focused developments to life. One of our latest collaborations took us to Whitehaven, where we partnered with Thomas Armstrong Construction to deliver bespoke balustrade systems for the newly built activity centre, The Edge.
From planning through to installation, this project was a true showcase of expert craftsmanship, smooth collaboration, and a shared commitment to high-quality, safety-first solutions.
About The Edge
The Edge is a striking three-storey facility situated on Whitehaven Harbour. Commissioned by the Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners and designed by Manchester-based architects Northmill Associates, the centre was envisioned as a multi-use space for both local and visiting communities.
Whether it’s coast-to-coast cyclists, walkers, school groups or local clubs, The Edge provides an inviting and practical base. It features:
- 16 ensuite bedrooms across the top two floors, accessed via lift and communal staircases
- A mezzanine seating area on the first floor with WCs
- A café, terrace, multi-use space, reception, changing facilities, drying room and WCs on the ground floor
The development has been spotlighted in local publications, including the Whitehaven News, and recognised on the Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners’ website.
Partnering with Thomas Armstrong
Thomas Armstrong (Construction) Ltd, part of the wider Thomas Armstrong Group, is an award-winning contractor with a strong reputation across Cumbria, Lancashire, and the North of England and Southern Scotland. Over the years, they’ve grown into a leading name in the construction industry, delivering high-quality building, civil, and mechanical engineering projects across multiple Sectors.
Working with Thomas Armstrong, a company with almost two centuries of construction experience, was a smooth and rewarding experience from start to finish. Their team brought a clear vision and solid attention to detail, creating the perfect environment for our team to deliver high-quality, tailored solutions.
What We Delivered
SMART Balustrades was appointed to supply and install a range of balustrade and handrail systems throughout key areas of the building, including:
- Main staircases and corridors
- Walkways and communal spaces
We installed a combination of glass panels and stainless steel balustrades throughout the building, chosen for their modern look, durability, and low maintenance qualities. As always, we built a high-quality solution throughout, ensuring all safety and compliance requirements were met.
The materials selected were as much about aesthetics as functionality. Our glass balustrades allow natural light to flood through internal areas, creating a bright, open feel that visitors and staff can enjoy. Stainless steel handrails provide stability and reassurance, particularly important in a setting designed for large groups of people.
Why choose SMART Balustrades for commercial projects?
A project like The Edge requires a careful balance of style, safety, and functionality—and that’s exactly what we deliver. Our balustrade systems offer:
- Enhanced safety: All products meet current UK building regulations and standards for commercial buildings.
- Durability: Engineered for longevity, even in busy communal environments.
- Visual appeal: Our modern balustrade solutions provide a sleek finish that complements the architecture of the building.
- Low maintenance: Ideal for busy environments, our glass and stainless balustrades are easy to clean with just water and soap.
- Clear communication: From the initial enquiry through to execution, our team communicated clearly with the onsite construction team, ensuring the project ran smoothly from start to finish.
We’re proud that our contribution not only met the technical requirements of the project but also helped elevate the overall user experience for future residents and visitors.
When we asked Ryan Robertson, Contracts Manager at Thomas Armstrong Construction, why he picked SMART Balustrades for the project, he said: “I’d never used them before, they were great to deal with throughout. (Josie and Lee were fab)”
Partnering with Thomas Armstrong
Working with Thomas Armstrong, a company with almost two centuries of construction experience, was a smooth and rewarding experience from start to finish, and SMART Balustrades highly recommends them. Their team brought a clear vision and solid attention to detail, creating the perfect environment for our team to deliver high-quality, tailored solutions.
Whether you’re developing a community centre, commercial premises, or high-traffic public space, SMART Balustrades can help you strike the perfect balance of safety, durability, and design.
Get in touch with our team today – we’re here to help.
