Perega, the consulting engineering firm, successfully provided a structural engineering audit and critical interface checks for the installation of the 11-metre-tall Disney Castle at the Selfridges flagship store in London.

This castle is supported by a highly sustainable and innovative construction system and was unveiled as a key component of the store's Christmas celebrations this year. It stands as the largest festive feature to be installed on the iconic Oxford Street landmark in more than half a century.

Perega was tasked with executing the comprehensive structural engineering audit and analysis. The main challenge involved securely fastening a significant temporary structure to the façade of an iconic building while maintaining suitable structural tolerance and ensuring minimal intervention with the existing façade. The firm performed crucial checks on the existing Selfridges structure to guarantee it could safely withstand the proposed loads from the new installation.

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To devise a solution that was both economically efficient and cost-effective, Perega audited a unique, reusable system designed for the façade interface, working closely alongside the design team. This progressive engineering approach substantially decreased the volume of waste and the long-term costs typically associated with temporary display schemes.

Rob Barnes, Director at Perega and the project lead, commented on the success: "The challenge was to ensure the structural system for the largest installation the store has seen in over 50 years was not only safe but also fundamentally sustainable. Our engineering input, incorporating reusable anchors and bespoke column frames, ensures the structure can be efficiently rebuilt to accommodate future display additions, minimising material consumption and environmental impact.”

The project was executed through a collaborative effort, partnering with the lead designer, Sculptivate Company, the specialist installers, Ambar Installations, and the fabricator, StageOne, showcasing a seamless partnership across the team. Perega’s work on the Disney Castle structure continues its long-standing relationship with Selfridges, further building on its extensive experience in the retail sector by providing expert engineering services for logistically challenging and landmark projects.