Cairns T2 External stairs with perforated panels
Marcus P Graham Ironworks · Dublin
Finalist in: Architectural Metalwork – Staircases
Project Gallery
MPGI successfully detailed and fabricated bespoke architectural railings for the Cairns T2 Block A external stairs. Featuring 6mm folded steel panels with custom perforations, the fully galvanized and RAL 7015 finished system combines robust structural safety with a striking, modern architectural aesthetic.
The Story
The Cairns T2 Block A External Stairs project represents a perfect synthesis of heavy-duty structural fabrication and intricate architectural design. Marcus P. Graham Ironworks Ltd (MPGI) was tasked with detailing, fabricating, and supplying the architectural railing system for a prominent set of external concrete stairs.
To achieve the architectural vision, these heavy-gauge plates required meticulous CNC profiling to create a unique, randomized "scattered" perforation pattern before being folded at the edges for added rigidity and seamless modular joining.
Detailing this project required extreme precision. The MPGI modeling team generated precise flat-pattern drawings to ensure the perforations flowed naturally up the varying pitches of the staircases
To ensure long-term durability against the elements, all fittings, panels, and railings were fully galvanized. The final touch was a sleek RAL 7015 powder-coated finish, a dark slate grey that beautifully contrasts with the surrounding modern brickwork and concrete steps. The final installation seamlessly navigated complex interface points, including precise gap detailing between the stanchions, panels, and adjacent louvers, resulting in an incredibly clean, robust, and visually striking pedestrian access route.
Why It Should Win
The Cairns External Stairs project stands out for its exceptional marriage of heavy-gauge industrial materials and delicate architectural aesthetics. Fabricating a continuous, randomized perforation pattern across multiple angled and stepped panels requires flawless detailing and cutting precision. MPGI’s use of 6mm folded steel plate elevates the installation from a standard safety barrier to a premium architectural feature, giving the structure a heavy, high-quality feel that thinner sheet metals simply cannot achieve.
The flawless execution of the galvanized and RAL 7015 finish ensures this bespoke feature will remain a stunning focal point of the building's exterior for decades without succumbing to corrosion. This project is a masterclass in translating complex, design-led concepts into perfectly fitting, highly durable fabricated realities, showcasing the top-tier detailing and manufacturing capabilities of Marcus P. Graham Ironworks Ltd.
Project Team
Marcus P. Graham Ironworks LTD Ken McGloughlin Design Engineer
Video, Drawings & Media
Project Details
Marcus P Graham Ironworks
Dublin
Cairns
June 2026
#69198
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2026 Irish Steel Awards Finalist
Congratulations to Marcus P Graham Ironworks for being Shortlisted for an Irish Steel Award!
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