Challenge

Good Directions was tasked with manufacturing large GRP bells with an antique bronze look as a central feature at the top of a temporary 4-storey structure for the Barclaycard British Summer Time Event in Hyde Park.

Background

In the summer of 2022, Good Directions was contacted by Spacial Installations, a company that specialises in manufacturing and creating bespoke high-quality set builds for events and the entertainment industry. They were working on creating “Hotel Grand Campano”, a 12m-high, 4-storey pop-up bar created from shipping containers, set-dressed to provide the appropriate aesthetic for this event in Hyde Park.

Work undertaken

Good Directions was tasked with manufacturing large 600mm-diameter GRP bells for use as the centre feature of the top of the build. Constructed from GRP, the bells are very lightweight and easy to manoeuvre and install, without the need for extensive structural support. The company took a mould of an original antique bell ensuring a lifelike replica was produced, including all the imperfections found in older bells, adding to the realistic antique look.

The first step was “bronzing” the bell to give it a depth of colour. As this was drying, Good Directions carefully applied various coats of verdigris solution to the bell, giving it a metal appearance which has naturally aged after being exposed to natural elements, creating this beautiful aged green colour to the bronze.

Outcome

These lifelike replicas are so realistic many people won’t be able to tell that it is not indeed a real bronze bell.

Large bespoke metal-look GRP bells for event at Hyde Park

Casting and moulding services - products from other companies

Casting and moulding services - companies

Sign up to receive the free EXTERNAL WORKS bulletin