Christmas Decorations at Van Cleef & Arpels, London
Structural engineering that performs - in theatres, airports, and live event spaces across the UK.
This was a delicate balance - creating an anchor system that could withstand winter wind loads while respecting the building’s façade. Every fixing and load path had to be spot-on, both structurally and visually.
Tom Jeffcoat
Structural Engineer
Christmas Decorations at Van Cleef & Arpels, London
Retail
MJ Consulting Engineers teamed with JMS Engineers to undertake the structural engineering design and validation for the installation of Christmas decorations on the façade of Van Cleef & Arpels. The project required detailed assessment of wind loads, load distribution, and anchor strength to ensure the safety and stability of the installation.
Engineering Techniques
The location’s specific environmental factors, including wind speed, building dimensions, and proximity to nearby structures, were analysed in detail. Advanced wind load assessments provided precise insights into the forces acting on the decorations, forming the basis of a safe and effective design.
The decorations, mounted on a lightweight aluminium box frame, were designed to withstand vertical and horizontal loads from their self-weight and external forces such as wind pressure. The load distribution was thoroughly analysed, and all assessments confirmed that the design complied with ultimate limit state requirements.
The anchors, fixed into the brick façade using high-performance mortar resin, were tested to stringent standards. The testing verified their ability to resist the calculated forces, with sufficient safety margins to accommodate all foreseeable conditions. Cantilever moments and tension forces were also reviewed to ensure full compliance with safety standards.
Material selection and structural verification processes ensured that the aluminium frame could handle all stress factors without compromising its integrity. The overall system, from anchor placement to load distribution, was designed for optimal performance and aesthetic integration.
Result
This project successfully demonstrated MJ Consulting Engineers’ ability to integrate detailed structural solutions with aesthetic requirements. The Christmas decorations were securely installed, meeting all safety and performance expectations while enhancing the festive appeal of the Van Cleef & Arpels façade. The outcome highlights the company’s expertise in delivering bespoke structural designs for unique and complex installations.
LIVE EveNTS
STAGE DESIGN
Working in theatres and live venues means there’s no room for error - and that’s where MJC stands out. We’re known in the industry for being calm under pressure, clear on site, and dependable from first sketch to final sign-off. It’s why so many production teams come back to us.
Tom Jeffcoat
Structural Engineer, MJ Consulting Engineers
Yes - with offices in London and Manchester and a network of experienced engineers, we deliver structural engineering solutions for theatres and performance venues throughout the UK.
Absolutely; heritage venues are a core part of our expertise. We balance preservation requirements with structural upgrades to support modern rigging, lighting, and performance demands.
Yes - from temporary structures and roof trims to signage and production rigging, we engineer solutions that deliver safety, compliance, and speed for live show environments .
Extensive - we've completed projects at Heathrow T2, T5, Gatwick, Birmingham Airport and Liverpool John Moore Airport, delivering bespoke structural designs that meet tight schedules and live-site requirements .
Yes - we perform ceiling void, roof, rigging point, and structural inspections to assess condition and readiness for production use or fit-out modifications .
Our teams are accustomed to fast-paced schedules. We’re regularly brought into projects during show rehearsals or airport closures - and we deliver reliable structural solutions under time pressure.
We work closely with architects, venue owners, contractors, production teams, and heritage bodies to ensure structural integrity, adherence to regulations, and build-ready details.
Yes, typically within 5 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about working with MJC - how we work, where we work, and what we deliver.
Structural Support That Performs On Stage and On Site
From listed theatres and concert halls to airport concessions and live venues, we bring practical structural engineering to complex environments. Whether you're planning a refurbishment, fitting out a retail unit, or navigating venue constraints, we’ll help you make it buildable - and make it happen.