GKN Aerospace’s vision for a network of regional technology centres across the globe came to life with the launch of their new Global Technology Centre (GTC) in mid-October 2021. The government-funded investment represents a major commitment to developing the sustainable aerospace technology of the future. We were incredibly honoured to be a part of the design of the centre and support the launch event of their new venture.
For such a high-profile project with a continually evolving brief, we were tasked with creating an interactive experience located in the glazed atrium entrance showcasing GKN’s pioneering technologies and vision for a sustainable aerospace future.
Our solution involved a new innovative technology known as ‘Portal’ which told the ‘One GKN Aerospace’ story on a 5m diameter hi-res LED screen in the centre of the Portal that visitors can interact with. Content such as ‘Global Collaboration and Clean Sky’ sustainability is navigated via the touch screen plinth and relayed onto the large circular screen.
Visitors can travel forward to 2050 and discover how hybrid and hydrogen aircraft have transformed the future of flight or travel back in time to see GKN’s story of change and innovation stretching back to the fires of the industrial revolution. Videos relating to GKN’s brand values were also available to watch as well as exploring all aspects of the GTC build.
Radiating across the feature is a large graphic to the full atrium height of 6m, successfully supporting the story of GKN presented on the screen.
We also delivered 4 product plinths around the atrium showcasing their most interesting and technical products with information screens places in front.
The centre was officially opened by Boris Johnson on the 15th of October 2021 as he toured the new space, meeting team members and discussing the skills required by the workforce of the future with graduates and apprentices.
Credit to GKN Aerospace
The following Monday was the launch event of the space to suppliers and clients like Airbus and Rolls Royce, as well as Government officials and academic students from the surrounding universities. The event allowed invited various expert speakers to share their visions for the future whilst celebrating the achievements of GKN’s past 50 years with drinks and food.
