Glazing Innovation in Cambridge. Custom Engineering Meets Rapid Delivery.
When Standard Solutions Aren’t Enough, We Create the Impossible.
At QBRE’s 20 Station Road Cambridge, City Concepts delivered 9,000 sq ft of bespoke engineering excellence that proves British manufacturing can turn complex challenges into competitive advantages. Working with Quarterback, FORA, and Chilfen Joinery, we didn’t just install glazing – we invented solutions.
FORA needed a custom I-beam head section that would serve both the current project and future installations throughout the building. Standard extrusions wouldn’t work. International suppliers quoted months. We delivered in weeks.
Our UK manufacturing facility designed, prototyped, and produced a completely bespoke extrusion that replicates architectural I-beam details whilst maintaining full acoustic performance. This wasn’t just problem-solving, it was future-proofing.
Technical Excellence - Innovation Without Compromise
The QBRE installation showcases what’s possible when bespoke solutions meet performance.
◉ Concept54d and RS32 systems delivering 46dB Rw double glazed screens and 38dB Rw single glazed doors.
◉ Custom I-beam head sections manufactured specifically for this project.
◉ Wireless access control integration across multiple doors with full compatibility testing.
◉ Bespoke aluminium handles with timber inserts, perfectly matched to existing systems.
◉ RAL 9001 metalwork ensuring seamless visual integration
Partnership in Action. Four Companies, One Vision.
This project succeeded because of exceptional collaboration. Quarterback provided expert project management and construction coordination FORA delivered architectural vision and custom design requirements
Chilfen Joinery crafted perfect timber finishes for handle integration City Concepts engineered and manufactured bespoke solutions in record time
Under Jacob Golbey’s project management, we completed the entire 9,000 sq ft installation in just three weeks within an eight-week construction programme.
When FORA needed custom solutions that didn’t exist, our UK facility responded with the agility that defines British engineering. We didn’t just manufacture components, we collaborated on design, iterated in real-time, and delivered innovations that serve both current and future projects.
The wireless access control integration required stringent compatibility testing and coordination. Our local capabilities enabled rapid problem-solving and protocol development that will benefit future installations requiring similar technology.
Beyond Installation, Creating Lasting Value.
The custom I-beam extrusion developed for QBRE isn’t just solving today’s challenge, this bespoke solution will serve future projects throughout the building, demonstrating how innovative thinking creates value that extends far beyond individual installations.
The success of this project reflects the exceptional partnership between City Concepts, Quarterback, FORA, and Chilfen Joinery, four organisations united by a shared commitment to innovation and excellence. Under the expert project management of Jacob, this collaboration demonstrated how effective communication and aligned standards can overcome even the most complex technical challenges.
The QBRE project proves that when complex challenges meet British manufacturing capabilities, extraordinary results follow. We’re proud to have worked with Quarterback, FORA, and Chilfen Joinery on this innovative project, and we look forward to future opportunities to create bespoke solutions that exceed expectations.
When standard solutions aren’t enough, City Concepts creates the impossible.
Collaborations
QBRE | Quarterback
FORA | @fora-space
Chilfern Joinery | Chilfen Joinery Limited
Photerior | Photerior
City Concepts specialises in acoustic glazing solutions for commercial environments, with bespoke manufacturing capabilities at our UK headquarters. For more information about our Concept54d range, custom manufacturing services, and partnership opportunities, contact enquiries@cityconcepts.co.uk
The views expressed in this article are those of City Concepts and do not necessarily reflect the views of our partners or clients. All acoustic performance figures are based on laboratory testing and may vary depending on installation conditions.