FC&A December 2019

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December 19

Issue 118

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Wellbeing in the workplace

2019’s on-trend surface coverings

The RIBA’s Alan Jones on Brexit

Firm Architects proves an office should be

Why decorative plaster has once again

“Despite the uncertainty and risks, there could be

more than just a place of desks and chairs

become the surface covering of choice

opportunities for the UK post-Brexit.”

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Editorial Comment FC&A is a proud supporter of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists.

Cross Platform Media LTD Barham Court, Teston, Maidstone,Kent, ME18 5BZ Tel: 01622 232723 www.fca-magazine.com

Editor Rebecca Kemp rebecca@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Print & Digital Advertising Sam Ball sam@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Jim Moore jim@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Print Design Manager Jack Witcomb jack@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Digital Design Manager David Perry david@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Production Assistant Philip Coyle philip@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Accounts/Credit Control Jackie Dearman jackie@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Sales Support & Administrator Klare Porter klare@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Publisher Sam Ball sam@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

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Front cover: The impressive exterior of the Amvest headquarters in Amsterdam has been complemented by Firm Architects’ “light and airy” fit-out.

See page 18.

Magazine December 2019

Welcome

to Future Constructor & Architect...

D

ecember’s finally here, and shortly we’ll all be migrating down to our local polling stations to have our say in 2019’s General Election. It’s shocking to think that this time last year we were all preparing for the changes March would bring following our departure from the EU. Yet, fast forward an entire year, and there appears to have been little movement surrounding Brexit and its associated uncertainties (give or take a new Prime Minister).

In a battle of the parties, Boris Johnson and Jeremy Corbyn went head to head in November in an evening that saw the pair clash over an answer-dodging debate surrounding Brexit. With any luck, 2020 will put an end to the monotony of Brexit scaremongering and discussions of deals, no-deals, impacts on the industry and Parliamentary squabbles.

To conclude the political shenanigans of the year, we’ve talked to The RIBA’s President, Alan Jones, about the concerns he has for the industry post-Brexit. Read up on his thoughts on page 26.

Elsewhere in this month’s issue, we’re tackling the housing crisis in our own way with a forum on the house-building industry. Here, we’ve talked to leading suppliers within the sector for their top tips to help advance today’s developments. Turn to page 28 to find out more.

Finally, on behalf of FC&A’s publishing house, Cross Platform Media, I’d like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year! I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, you can also access all of the magazine’s features, product news and supplier information on FC&A’s user-friendly and engaging website. Fully responsive, the website allows you to read all the latest stories on-the-go either on your phone or tablet.

Simply search www.fca-magazine.com.

Rebecca

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Find all of our features and more online, plus our comprehensive archive area, at fca-magazine.com or on the fc&a app. Search ‘fc&a’.

Rebecca Kemp Editor, Future Constructor & Architect

Follow us on Twitter: @fcamagazine

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Contents

14

Portfolios

News 10 Industry Updates:

FC&A rounds up this month’s industry news, including awarded contracts, completed projects and much more.

24 Voice of the Industry:

Amidst uncertainty surrounding Brexit and changes to Building Regulations, Stuart Bell, Managing Director of Polyfoam XPS, looks at what lies ahead for the insulation industry.

26 Legal & Business: As we head towards December’s General Election, The RIBA’s President, Alan Jones, looks at some of the concerns facing the architectural industry in a post-Brexit world.

Features 22 Floors, Walls & Ceilings:

With an abundance of interior finishes on the marketplace, it’s often a challenge for architects to navigate in a world of on-trend colours and textures. In this article, Dale Telling at Fassa Bortolo looks at the latest surface covering styles making a comeback.

28 Build Focus:

House-Building:

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32 RCI:

With authorities looking for developments that help them to meet their environmental aspirations, Amanda de Sousa, Product Systems Manager at BMI UK & Ireland, explains how green or blue roofs are a useful addition to proposed developments.

34 Thermal Break Solutions:

As architects and housing developers strive to make developments more energy-efficient, there is one element of construction that must not be overlooked. With the potential to improve efficiencies by up to 80%, it’s essential thermal break solutions are used in new-build housing if we are to meet 2050 regulations.

14 Amvest Office,

Firm Architects: The impressive exterior of the Amvest headquarters in Amsterdam has been complemented by Firm Architects’ “light and airy” fit-out.

The practice’s design responds to the ideology that a workplace is much more than a place of desks and chairs.

18 Wool + Tailor workspace, gpad london:

Award-winning architecture and interior design practice gpad london and developer Maurice Investments have completed a Grade A workspace refurbishment for Wool + Tailor in Aldgate, East London.

36 HVAC & IAQ:

As a result of the desk-bound 24/7 jobs of the 21st century, many of our us are confined to the four walls of our office. What’s more, work is making its way into our out-of-office lives; therefore, the construction industry must start looking at the wellbeing of occupants by considering indoor air quality within the built environment.

The latest trends and news from the house-building industry are revealed by some of the leading voices within the realm.

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Industry Updates

NEWS

CONTACT US Submit your news and comments to: rebecca@crossplatformmedia.co.uk @fcamagazine

FC&A rounds up the latest industry news

In Brief Leeds engineer wins major new contracts

RWO Associates has won a raft of new house-building projects after it recently opened in the city. The Park Place-based firm, which provides locally-based technical engineering services and expertise, has won an undisclosed six-figure worth of work in the last three months. This includes pre-planning drainage and flood risk work, detailed highways and drainage design services and earthworks analysis for over 1700 new residential properties being built by Persimmon Homes, Gleeson Homes, Barratt Homes, Harron Homes and Mulgrave Property Group across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. The office is also providing structural engineering services and technical expertise, which includes substructure and super-structure design, for these developments, supporting further the local requirements of national developers.

NFB’s cry for radical change in the sector

The National Federation of Builders (NFB) has called on the construction sector and any future Government to act now if they are to meet the 2050 zero-carbon target. With construction directly influencing 47% of UK carbon emissions and 61% of UK waste, the sector is a critical part of the radical change needed. The National Federation of Builders’ (NFB) Major Contractors Group (MCG) has launched its ‘Transforming Construction for a Low Carbon Future’ report, warning that the construction industry must be transformed within a generation, otherwise it will have failed the country, and the Government will fail in its zero-carbon ambitions. Speaking at the launch, NFB’s Chairman, Nick Sangwin, said: “This report is not a document to sit on shelves gathering dust, it is designed to galvanise the sector into action, to see the opportunities and to lead the way towards zero carbon by 2050. It is critical that those within the construction sector are stepping forward and implementing a real step-change in the way they do business.”

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Foster + Partners to design Red Sea Airport Inspired by the colours and textures of the desert landscape, the sustainable design seeks to create a calm and luxurious journey through the terminal. It will become a transit hub for visitors coming in by both land and air. We look forward to working with the Red Sea Development Company to fulfil the vision for this ambitious one-of-a-kind luxury project.”

The design of the terminal aims to bring the experience of a private aircraft terminal to every traveller by providing smaller, intimate spaces that feel luxurious and personalised. The form of the

roof shells is inspired by the desert dunes and cantilevers on the landside and airside to provide shade to the passengers. An internal green oasis with an indigenously planted garden forms a green focus, creating a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere within the airport terminal. The airport will be powered by 100% renewable energy.

The arrival experience is about the speed of processing passengers, while welcoming them to their destination along with giving them a first impression of the Red Sea experience. Upon arrival, passengers follow the natural spatial flow down through the lush oasis landscape towards the welcome centre, where they are met and welcomed to the Red Sea Resort. All security and immigration checks are dealt with speedily, and the checked-in baggage is sent to the resorts

Gleeds announces two senior hires

New hires for Turley London

Designs for the new Red Sea Airport by Foster + Partners have been revealed.

The airport is set to welcome an expected one million visitors by 2030 to this area of stunning natural beauty. The terminal building has been inspired by the forms of the desert, the green oasis and the sea. It will remove the usual hassle associated with travel by providing a tranquil and memorable experience for passengers from the moment they arrive.

Gerard Evenden, Head of Studio at Foster + Partners, said: “The Red Sea Airport has been envisaged as a gateway to one of the most unique resorts in the world and an integral part of the visitor experience.

Personnel Ramboll grows team with two new hires Ramboll has announced the hire of two Managing Consultants to its UK biodiversity team. Suzanne Coey and Vikki Patton, who will be based in Edinburgh, both join with extensive experience in international biodiversity.Vikki joins Ramboll from WSP as Managing Consultant and brings with her experience in biodiversity conservation and business development in the UK and Africa. Suzanne joins Ramboll as a Managing Consultant from Environmental Resources Management (ERM) with over 15 years of experience in consultancy, regulation and academia.

Gleeds has announced the appointment of two new leaders to its UK project management team following a sustained surge in demand for its expertise. David Corbin will assume the role of National Head of Project & Programme Management, with Kara Thompson responsible for London area Project Management. David’s career in the industry spans over 20 years, with experience across a number of sectors including social infrastructure, security, justice and defence.

Kara joins Gleeds from property services provider, Savills, where she was CoHead of West-End Project Management.

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Planning and development consultancy Turley has strengthened its planning offering in London with the appointment of Christopher Schiele as Associate Director and Luke Sumnall as Assistant Planner. Christopher joins from GL Hearn and specialises in high-density regeneration projects. He brings a wide range of experience working on large-scale residential-led mixed-use developments across London and the South East. Luke also joins from GL Hearn having spent the last two years on a planning graduate scheme. He has worked on a range of mixeduse schemes across London and the South East.

Industry Updates

In Brief

Stewart Milne Homes director appointed to HfS

Gary Milne,Technical & Design Director for Stewart Milne Homes Central Scotland, has been appointed to the Board of Homes for Scotland (HfS). In this role, Milne will represent the leading independent house-builder and join 20 other leading industry professionals, where he will help to support and inform the agenda of the respected trade body. HfS aims to ensure that Scots have access to the homes they need by shaping policy and challenging decisionmakers on behalf of the industry. A qualified Civil Engineer, Gary’s career has been forged in construction having acquired over 24 years of technical, practical and managerial experience across a breadth of consultancy, construction and homebuilding sector roles.

directly. The centre offers an immersive experience of the highlights at the resort, giving all visitors a flavour of what is to come.

The departure sequence is generally longer than the arrival experience, so the

spaces are designed for longer waiting times with larger, more relaxed spaces. The five departure suites are arranged as a series of pods to allow an easy transition from their cars to the plane. Passengers are dropped off outside the

Trending on Twitter

immediately. If reports that cladding contributed to the blaze are true, it is a shameful indictment of inaction after Grenfell.” – @DavidLammy

#BOLTONFIRE

“No building should react to fire like this in the 21st century – we need a complete overhaul of UK fire safety. Thank you for the amazing work of crews on the ground. #BoltonFire” – @fbunational “We have spent £66bn on Brexit but can’t afford to remove cladding from every vulnerable home in Britain in two...years. This Government is a disgrace, the press MUST hold them to account. #BoltonFire”– @AdamDidThat

terminal and quickly enter one of the departure pods which feature spas and restaurants enveloped in a relaxed atmosphere. The baggage is loaded onto the aircraft directly after being checked-in at the resort.

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©Foster + Partners

“Thank you to the 40 fire crews who tackled the #BoltonFire and the emergency services who treated people at the student accommodation.

If reports are correct and flammable cladding contributed to the fire, it shows the Government’s shameful inaction since Grenfell.” – @jeremycorbyn

“How is this not headline news??? Over 200 students homeless with absolutely nothing. Personally, all I have is the pyjamas I was in as I ran out my flat and my phone that was in my hand as I smelt smoke... #BoltonFire” – @Megdori

“Very disturbing images #BoltonFire. Heroic firefighters and paramedics should be praised. Those left homeless must be rehoused

“That’s cladding. Burning. On a block of student flats. More than two years after Grenfell.

There aren’t any words. #BoltonFire #GeneralElection #GE2019”– @jabberwock951

tp bennett joins One Global Design network

Leading international architecture and interiors practice tp bennett has joined One Global Design Group, an international network of independent, principal-owned architecture and design firms. Comprising 20 firms in 27 locations across the US, Canada, Mexico, Europe and India, the One network allows corporate clients to seamlessly work with a firm that is familiar with their brand, vision and company culture in partnership with a local best-in-class firm. The new partnership follows a successful year of growth for tp bennett, which announced record turnover for 2018/19, and will increase its international reach.

Big Innovation Pitch returns for Futurebuild 2020

The Big Innovation Pitch is back with a bang for Futurebuild 2020. With innovation running through the veins of the event, which takes place from 3rd to 5th March at ExCeL, London, the timing of the competition’s return is perfect. The 2020 edition will up the ante, with innovative product manufacturers putting forward radical solutions to Futurebuild’s six key challenges, before one is crowned champion. Hosted across Futurebuild in conjunction with BRE as technical partner, the competition will be the industry’s largest call-out for innovation to date and will identify and celebrate novel new approaches to some of the biggest challenges facing us all.

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Industry Updates

Architect in Profile

A Designer with over 20 years’ experience in delivering workplace design and strategy for the financial, corporate, technology and media sectors, Rob Price’s impressive portfolio includes the 250,000ft2 fit-out for Shell’s new headquarters in London, with the 275,000ft2 refurbishment of Shell Tower’s original 1960s HQ, an 80,000ft2 fit-out of Bayer’s new UK headquarters in Reading, and a full refurbishment for leading telecommunications company, Colt. Here, FC&A talks to Rob about his past, present and future.

Rob Price is Director & Project Leader at Will + Partners

www.willandpartners.com

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Who has been your greatest influence and source of inspiration?

On a personal level, it’s Colin MacGregor, who was the head of my course. He was a successful designer from the 1960s who helped set up the Design Council and ran his own practice before going into teaching.

In terms of architectural inspiration, it is Le Corbusier – both his building and theory of measurement and units, Le Modular, which I studied at college and based my thesis on.

His later projects in India are equally brilliant.

What has been your most notable project to date?

Colt House on Great Eastern Street, we took a tired Richard Seyfried building and completely stripped it back to its original character. With a minimal budget, we managed to create a simple and light workspace that’s flexible and stimulating to work in.

With older building stock, there are often issues with asbestos and dealing with dated construction methods from the 1960s. However, some of these issues later become features, like the wood-wool void formers cemented into the slabs, which helped with acoustic performance and saved us having to install additional treatment.

How do you approach your projects?

Firstly, it’s to look at the context of the project. This can be as simple as the build, site’s location or even the history of the area. The development of the brief and concept begins as a mind map and often hangs off a phrase or word before we even start to look at the design.

What do you think is the greatest challenge for architects today?

To be an architect today is much more than designing buildings. It’s a huge commitment that starts early on in education. I worry that architects get typecast too early in their careers, especially in the larger practices where it can stand in the way of people’s progression. We shouldn’t lose the variety, excitement and opportunity we have when we’re just starting out – there should always be an open door to further learning regardless of what you’ve done to date.

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What can we expect to see from Will + Partners over the next year?

We’re interested in social and cultural projects where we can make a difference to the lives of people and how they interact with the spaces around them. It’s important that we practice what we preach – we’re a team of architects and academics who embrace research. How we live and work is constantly evolving, and we need to be ahead of the game in knowing where the trends are moving next.

From a personal perspective, I’m looking forward to strategically guiding the studio as it continues to grow and take on a diverse range of projects. We have an incredibly talented team within the studio as well as a supportive network of like-minded collaborators in the research community.

Mostly, we’re looking forward to what the future holds for Will + Partners and doing more to educate the industry on wellness and wellbeing.

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Had you always wanted to pursue a career in architecture?

Yes, always. I was lucky enough to be supported by great design teachers in school, which isn’t always the case. Having people who believe in you, ultimately, gives you the enthusiasm and purpose to work harder. In fact, it was my art and design teacher who gave me that drive to gain the academic qualifications I needed to get into art college.

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Wool + Tailor workspace, Aldgate, East London

A stitch in time Award-winning architecture and interior design practice gpad london and developer Maurice Investments have completed a Grade A workspace refurbishment in Aldgate, East London.

All images ©Stephen Bennett

W

ool + Tailor paves the way for a new generation of creativity and innovation in an area steeped in the history of tailoring and the wool trade. It adds to the rich tapestry of buildings in Aldgate’s busy commercial hub.

Situated in one of London’s fastestgrowing areas, key to the brief was to bring it up to contemporary standards.

Wool + Taylor now offers high-quality media-style workspace, catering for a range of businesses and start-ups. An extension on the top floor increases net internal floor area and maximises efficient site usage.

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Dynamic fret-cut detailing and a bespoke reception desk create an outstanding first impression. The office floors have generous floor-to-ceiling heights and a widely spaced column grid. Exposed industrial features celebrate the building’s history.

Two-faced

Unusually, the two 1980s, street-facing north and south facades were markedly different in style, and this gave a disjointed effect. It was crucial to knit together the distinct styles of the surrounding buildings – the Modernist look of Alie Street and the more traditional yellow brick frontage of St Mark Street, while allowing each to respond to its specific context.

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Giving the tired building a new lease of life, the dark red and purple polished granite of the front facade has been sand-blasted and painted matt black.

This introduces a cleaner, simplified contemporary aesthetic and ties in sensitively with the streetscape, which has recently been radically altered.

Contrasting with the black paint, anodised aluminium reveals accentuate the fenestration. The use of existing openings was maximised, flooding the interior with more natural light. The windows have been replaced with high-performance aluminium glazing, bringing window and door elements up to modern standards.

Wool + Tailor workspace, Aldgate, East London

Fact file: Location: London Type of project: Refurbishment Client: Maurice Investments Architect: gpad london Designer: gpad london Property agent: Allsop & Anton Page Project manager: Cluttons Planning consultant: Maddox (amendments only) Quantity surveyor: Exigere Main contractor: Area Start on-site date: August 2018 Completion date: August 2019

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Working with the grain of a neighbouring, listed Victorian warehouse, the rear elevation has been extended with red sandfaced wire-cut brick. New aluminium Crittalstyle windows embellish the fabric, and a new black render finish on the ground floor gives the building a base on which to sit.

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Wool + Tailor workspace, Aldgate, East London Top floor extension

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The sixth-floor extension, with a lightweight zinc standing seam, bridges the differing scale and style of the front and the rear and ties them together.

The seventh floor, primarily visible from the front facade, features aluminium rainscreen cladding to match the window reveals below, providing consistency to the design yet appearing as a lightweight extension element.

A south-facing terrace on the sixth floor and a dual-aspect terrace on the seventh give panoramic views across the city and beyond, acting as a place to meet or unwind and complementing an inspiring workspace. Internal layouts have been improved, and a cycle store, lockers and shower changing area are included.

To ensure sustainability and provide comfortable working conditions all-yearround, a high-efficiency HVAC system and a waste strategy were provided, along with a photovoltaic solar system. Alie Street also boasts an eco-friendly biodiverse roof, and facilities to ensure full accessibility with level access to all building entrances, step-free circulation and access to external terraces, lift access to all floors and disabled refuge on every level.

Architect, Simon Fancourt, said: “Alie Street was peculiar with its two very different aesthetics, both betraying their ages. To add to this, the streetscape itself is characterised by an array of massing, scale and architectural styles. The challenge to find common ground that would unite and celebrate both captivated us at gpad. We’re excited to have brought something new to the area to stimulate its continuing regeneration.

“In London, it’s that patchwork effect of new and historic buildings that is really exciting. It gives you a lot to feed off as a designer. Placemaking was also an important factor influencing our approach; in order to reinvigorate the neighbourhood for the vibrant community in the area, causing minimal impact on adjacent buildings in terms of daylight and sense of place and permanence was key.”

Gavin Wogman from Maurice Investments said: “Aldgate is a thriving area that’s recently gone through a major transformation. Being on the fringes of the city, it sees a lot of overspill in terms of demand for office space. This was a great opportunity to create a really curated space that reflects the history of the area while responding to the need for great quality offices.”

www.gpadlondonltd.com

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Amvest Office, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The epitome of good office design

Investment manager and developer Amvest had a fresh goal with its brand-new office, to become a best practice of its own development qualities, showcasing the epitome of how a good office, embedded in a good environment, has to relate to its users. To reinforce that image, Amvest started pioneering in its own backyard; a former industrial zone turned into a residential area.

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All images ŠStudio de Nooyer

Amvest Office, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

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Amvest Office, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

I

n this time where work and private lives are increasingly intertwined, an office is more than a place of desks and chairs.

More than ever, the influence of the working environment begins to emerge. We are aware that a well-designed environment leads to higher productivity, lower absenteeism and, more importantly, a higher degree of connection with the identity of a company. These insights stood at the basis of the interior design; an environment that

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exudes both the identity of Amvest and at the same time embodies the best possible working environment.

This project is anything but standard; everything is specifically designed and tailor-made. This applies both to the beautifully designed exterior by Rietveld Architects and the well-crafted interior

by Firm Architects. It starts when entering the building, stepping into a 20m2 elevator, doubling as a meeting room; complete

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with furniture, plants and art. It travels slowly between levels, affording visitors capturing views. An important effect of this choice is that it encourages the use of the central staircase for the employees.

Keywords for the design are sustainability, flexibility and innovation. These form the basis for everything from the floor through to ceiling. For example, the sustainably produced carpet looks like a fabric variant of a concrete floor, referring to the old

Amvest Office, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The plan is open, light and encourages interaction. The custom-made workplaces are height-adjustable and all situated on the same floor to stimulate interaction – set up along the double-height windows to allow an optimum flow of natural daylight, ensuring a minimum of additional lighting needed. In the less lit and; therefore, more intimate middle areas, there are different uses to accommodate the various activities of work. On the

top floor, special benches and tables are integrated into the ceiling and offer instant seating capacity at the push of a button. This flexibility is also found in the upholstered mobile wardrobes, serving as acoustic screens. This high level of customisation is leading in the design and is used as a decisive, stimulating and moving part of the interior.

â–

concrete factory that stood on site.The informal areas have recycled oak herringbone flooring uniquely developed for Amvest. It has a magnetic layer, ruling out the glue and; therefore, enabling reuse in the future.The specially developed ceiling panels serve as cooling and heating and provide acoustic enhancement. A healthy environment is also stimulated through the use of many plants, and a roof garden with Wi-Fi access and different areas to boost working outdoors.

www.firmarchitects.com

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Floors, Walls & Ceilings

On-trend interior finishes Dale Telling, Commercial Manager at Fassa Bortolo UK, looks at the latest trends in interior finishes and why some of the most traditional surface coverings are making a comeback.

I

nterior finishes have a number of essential roles to play in any design project.Whether it’s durability or design aesthetics, the finish applied to surfaces is an important factor to build into the project from the start.The finish is often dictated by the style of property and the condition of the substrate. Heritage sites, for example, may have issues with worn walls or uneven surfaces and will require a different internal finish to retain the period features of the property, while new-build sites may have more opportunity to experiment with different materials and visual effects. Cost and durability are also key determiners, with some projects specifying surface solutions that fall within specific budget parameters or finishes that can withstand heavy use or work well in damp environments.

Surfaces with character

After the practicalities have been addressed, it’s then when the focus turns to the design aesthetics. Smooth and sleek, or raw and textured, the options are endless when it comes to creating a stunning surface covering that echoes the overall style of your project. Current trends have seen natural materials reign supreme with surfaces offering a tactile quality and structured three-dimensional effects. Timber, exposed concrete, polished concrete, natural stone, marbles and metallic are all strong contenders when it comes to interior finishes bringing the

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trend for natural materials to life with a huge range of renders, plasters, tiles and cladding now available.

An age-old surface covering made for the 21st century

Polished plaster is making a comeback when it comes to surface solutions, allowing designers and architects to personalise interior spaces, bringing a whole new dimension to commercial and high-end residential projects.

These days, plaster tends to be viewed as a practical substrate that delivers a professional, smooth finish ready for paint effects, wallpaper and tiles to be applied. Still, we’re seeing a real movement towards decorative plaster now being used more widely. A surface covering found in many historical buildings, plasterwork has been widely used across Europe to transform interiors; creating stunning features that are regarded as works of art.

A surface covering for all projects

Ideal for use in boutique properties, hotels, wellness facilities and upmarket commercial spaces, decorative plasters deliver a stylish, sophisticated aesthetic and a whole host of different looks.Time-worn finishes and industrialstyle concrete effects sit alongside smooth stone effects with a polished appearance.The colour options are vast from neutral shades and delicate pastels through to bold, jewel tones, with mesmerising shimmers, elegant metallic

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finishes and light-reflecting marbles also on offer.

Whether the end design scheme is grand and impactful or understated and elegant, decorative plasters cast light and shadow to create walls that change their appearance with the light for a feeling of movement.

Current trends in decorative plaster

The options are endless, with a style of plaster to suit all projects. Popular styles currently include stucco finishes, which offer high-shine, reflective surfaces, creating a dynamic, visually impactful space.This style is often referred to as Venetian plastering, which is a traditional plaster often mistaken for opulent polished marble, perfectly suited to period buildings and historical sites.

Natural effects are also in demand with scratch-effect plasters used to create uniform, structured lines, or rough textures similar to cement for a raw, industrial look.

Stone effects remain very popular, bringing a feeling of the outside in. The finish is neither smooth nor rough, instead gently textured, making it well-suited to a whole range of properties.

Neutral colours are perennially popular with warm brown, beige and cool greys very much on-trend still within interior design.The spectrum of colours on offer is far and wide, with vivid jewel shades also available.Think deep blue, vivid yellow and rich terracotta for a stunning wall covering with a difference.

Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Why choose a decorative plaster?

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Hard-wearing, easy to apply to irregular surfaces and available in such a wide variety of colours and textures, it’s clear to see why decorative plaster has once again become the surface covering of choice for the modern-day architect and designer.

Decorative plasters are all about design and practicality. Well-suited to irregular surfaces, they are designed to add strength to walls, while providing excellent insulation and sound-proofing properties. One of the main advantages of decorative plasters is the ease of maintenance. Unlike some surface coverings which can be hard to clean, polished plasters are low-maintenance and hard-wearing, keeping their good looks for a long time – if properly cared for. Most minor blemishes can be wiped clean with a damp cloth without smearing or tainting the colour.

Although costlier than paint, the ease of upkeep makes it the perfect choice for public spaces, rentals or commercial projects.

The chosen application tool depends upon the desired finish, but decorative plasters are most commonly applied using a round edge trowel for easy workability.

There is also the option of microfibre gloves, square paint pads or various brushes to create alternative textures and visual effects.

www.fassabortolo.co.uk

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Voice of the Industry

Insulation: the impact of industry changes Changes to Building Regulations, Brexit uncertainty and shifting purchasing decisions are just some of the issues affecting the construction sector and its suppliers. Stuart Bell, Managing Director of Polyfoam XPS, explains the impact on the insulation industry and what lies ahead in 2020.

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he last 12 months have presented a number of challenges for the construction sector and many of these have had a domino effect across the supply chain. Yet despite the hurdles we’ve faced, industry change is also leading to new opportunities for manufacturers of roofing and flooring insulation.

Regulatory changes and confusion

Amendments to Building Regulations for fire safety, following the Grenfell tragedy, and the publication of revised British Standards have had one of the biggest impacts on our sector.

As a manufacturer of XPS insulation, we have understandably had lots of questions from architects, contractors and specifiers about the changes in regulations and guidance documents.

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In particular, the updated version of BS 6229 – the code of practice for ‘flat roofs with continuously supported flexible waterproofing coverings’ – has presented our technical team with an ongoing challenge.

The guidance on inverted blue roofs and some of the advice in BS 6229 is causing concern across our sector, particularly a supplementary note that suggests insulation should be increased by 10% in inverted roofs.

As a result, we’re working closely with the Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA), as well as other organisations across the flat roofing industry, to collectively voice our concerns. This has led to the recent launch of the LRWA’s Insulation Subcommittee, which aims to work with organisations to find a proactive and structured way forward to address some of the issues raised by the update.

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With more than 19 years’ experience in the sector, Stuart Bell joined the Polyfoam XPS plant in Hartlepool in 2001 as a Production Manager. He worked his way up to Manufacturing Manager and General Manager roles. Now as MD, Stuart ensures the running of the company remains as streamlined and professional as it always has been.

Brexit risks In terms of the wider construction market, Brexit will continue to generate uncertainty in 2020. Irrespective of what happens after we eventually leave the EU, many property investors will have slowed capital investment following the referendum result. The impact of this is likely to be seen from next year, which could lead to a slowdown in major projects, especially multi-occupancy residential, commercial and industrial.

This risk has also resulted in requests for long-term pricing for projects, especially for larger schemes. Like us, many contractors are worried about rising product and labour costs, so want the assurance that prices will remain stable despite potential changes to market and/or economic conditions.

Voice of the Industry Design and distribution shifts

Although industry change has raised uncertainties, opportunities have also been opened.

For example, the demand for XPS insulation within the new-build commercial sector is increasing, driven by the growth of inverted roof specifications.

We have also noticed a shift in how insulation products are being distributed.

Roofing contractors are increasingly ordering insulation from the waterproofing manufacturer rather than a specialist distributor. In these situations, the product is predominantly delivered to site by the insulation manufacturer, so we have adapted our services accordingly, including providing additional vehicles to meet our customers’ demands.

Specification switching crackdown Following the recommendations in Dame Judith Hackitt’s Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety, we have seen a reduction in specification switching.

Long-term, this will have a positive impact on our sector as switching specified insulation during construction can lead to inaccurate U-values and potential noncompliance with Building Regulations.

We have also noticed purchasing decisions changing with customers now less likely to prioritise cost over quality. Although affordable products are still important, contractors want the assurance that insulation will perform to a high standard before purchasing, which has put more emphasis on third-party accreditation, such as BBA certifications or system guarantees.

Adapting to alterations in an ever-changing market

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The insulation sector is a niche, but fastmoving industry so all manufacturers have to be in a position to adapt quickly to market changes. At Polyfoam XPS, this has seen us develop plans to upgrade some of our equipment which will enable us to develop products for new markets next year. We’re also in the process of adding further products to our range.

Like all construction businesses, we won’t be immune from further challenges, but we’ve put the systems and processes in place to help overcome these, so remain optimistic about 2020 and the positive market trends for both inverted roofing and its associated insulation.

www.polyfoamxps.co.uk

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Legal & Business

Brexit: our voyage into the unknown Alan Jones was born in 1964, in Northern Ireland, where he grew up and was state educated during the infamous Troubles. His parents had not been to university, and he was fortunate enough to receive a full grant to study Architecture at Queen’s University, Belfast. He graduated with the first distinction in seven years and took the offer of a summer job with Michael Hopkins & Partners, London, which turned into seven years working on Schlumberger Cambridge Research and Inland Revenue (Nottingham), amongst other projects. He then spent three years as an Associate with David Morley Architects on projects at Lord’s Cricket Ground. It was after this tenure that he decided to return, with his family, to his roots in Northern Ireland; a place where he wanted to make a difference. He led Architecture at Queen’s University Belfast to fifth in The Guardian’s League Table and first for added value. His practice has created projects which are cited in design guides, have received RIBA awards and enjoy global recognition. In 2016, he was made an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) and a Fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). As a trustee on the RIBA’s Council and Board, he has championed social mobility and a closer, more supportive relationship between education and practice, creating an upward spiral of benefits and advances for architects and society.

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As we head towards the first December general election since 1923, continued political and economic uncertainty has put architects in a state of limbo, making it very difficult for practices to plan for the future, writes RIBA President, Alan Jones.

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he RIBA’s September Future Trends Survey, which monitors business and employment trends affecting the architects’ profession, highlighted a lack of preparation by architecture practices for a no-deal Brexit. More than half (57%) of practices had done no preparation at all and of these, only 5% intended to do so in future.

Of course, it is difficult to plan when the outcome is still unclear.

It has been over three years since the referendum, yet we still face the real risk of not having a trade agreement with the EU post-Brexit. In that situation, the UK will be treated as a third-country under World Trade Organisation rules, meaning goods, including construction materials and products, will face tariffs upon entering the UK. We can expect this to push up the cost of development which is detrimental to the wider construction and engineering sector. Continued uncertainty and the fluctuation of the Pound make it difficult to price jobs for practices sourcing products in Euros, and to predict how this will translate into Sterling in the future.

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Should a trade deal be struck, and the Pound stabilise, there is still the risk of delays at ports. Many high-quality and highperforming components and materials are not partly or wholly produced in the UK and must be sourced from Europe. As one example, many of the materials needed to construct a low-energy, low-carbon Passivhaus building are only available from the continent.

If these products are delayed at the port, it will increase the length and cost of the job.

A significant non-tariff barrier post-Brexit for architectural firms is access to talent.

As a member of the EU, the UK benefits from the Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications Directive, which means architects with listed qualifications have been able to register and practice across the EU with limited barriers.The RIBA has been working with the Architects Registration Board (ARB), which regulates the profession, to ensure architects who have their qualifications already recognised will continue to do so. In addition, ARB have confirmed that they will be able to continue to register

Legal & Business

RIBA research shows that one in five architectural practices plan to respond to Brexit by exporting more of their services overseas. But many practices are smallor medium-sized business and the costs associated with Visa applications, obtaining local recognition of their qualifications and other fixed costs, present significant challenges.

It’s vital that the new Government supports small- and medium-sized businesses to take the first steps to international expansion.

Architecture is a sector that relies on collaboration, international expertise and imports and exports in both goods and services.The RIBA has made it clear that securing a deal with the EU is essential to ensure that goods continue to flow, architects are able to have their qualifications recognised and that they are able to travel freely for projects on the continent.

Whatever the outcome of the upcoming election, continued uncertainty is likely. While the UK’s future relationship with the EU is important, it is imperative that pressing issues facing us today are not neglected. We need to focus on tackling the climate emergency, improving the safety and quality of buildings and spaces and addressing the housing crisis, through the development of vibrant, prosperous communities.

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architects with qualifications listed in the directive, although, outside of Ireland, this has not been reciprocated.

International architects from across the globe provide a breadth of knowledge and expertise that supports UK firms providing services across the UK and internationally.

Whatever the outcome of the election and Brexit, the UK must ensure that it is a welcoming and desirable place to live, study and work.

Despite the uncertainty and risks, there could be opportunities for the UK postBrexit.The RIBA and our members have long been advocating for new mutual recognition agreements for professional qualifications outside the EU. International architects that come to the UK from countries from outside the EU predominantly come from the United States and Commonwealth nations – Australia, Canada and New Zealand. Setting up Mutual Recognition Agreements will enable UK practices to recruit more architects from these countries, providing the UK with an even richer set of skills and market experience on which to draw.These new agreements do not need to wait for a fully-fledged trade deal.

All that is required is an amendment to the Architects Act and for ARB to be instructed by the UK Government to begin conversations with the relevant regulators in these markets.

www.architecture.com

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27

Build Focus: House-Building

HOUSE-BUILDING The latest news, trends and advice on the house-building sector

By Louisa Eyles, Commercial Marketing Manager at Amtico

By Darren Mahoney, Design Director at Commodore Design

Trending: residential flooring styles Kitchens: small but perfectly formed can provide additional storage and achieve a high-end look, but consider the amount of countertop space available first.

A shared palette of colours and finishes that unites the kitchen units and worktops with the living area’s fixtures and flooring specification will maximise the sense of space and cohesion so that the kitchen becomes part of the living area when not in use.

Finally, it’s important to consider how the kitchen finishes will respond to limited light. Paler colours – particularly white – and high-gloss finishes will reflect both natural and electric light. Specifiers can enhance the lighting scheme with integrated LEDs that illuminate the worktops when in use and help the kitchen blend into the background at other times. www.commodoredesign.com

also offers the same aesthetic years after installation, all while maintaining its integrity, so it is no surprise that it is rising above ceramics and timber to become the material of choice.

In addition to its durable and easy maintenance properties, LVT is also naturally warm underfoot, which makes it the perfect choice for residential applications. Plus, LVT has a softer acoustic than a ceramic or timber surface, which helps to create a more relaxing environment for homeowners.

As interior design trends slowly move away from minimalistic schemes to more characterful looks, we expect to see more rustic-style grains within flooring designs, embracing cross-sawn timber details and warm oak tones.

The next 12 months will also see designers experimenting with distinctive patterns and bold colours to once again deliver stunning designs. www.amtico.com

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To meet the demands of homeowners and occupiers, diluting style or quality in smaller apartments is not an option. With the right approach to design and layout, developers and designers can transform a compact space into an impressive, high-specification kitchen that ticks all the right boxes for occupiers.

One of the most effective ways to maximise the use of space is with a linear layout of cupboards and worktops, ensuring the kitchen is flush to a wall. This also helps to break down barriers between rooms meeting the demand for open-plan living; a trend which is here to stay.

To increase the size of a preparation area without losing floor space, appointing a specialist manufacturer to increase the worktop depth can be highly effective. Taking wall units up to the ceiling and/or using floor-to-ceiling tall units

It’s no secret that there has been a rise in projects using highly decorative flooring to create zoned areas, especially where luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) are concerned. This has opened the door for architects and designers to create endless design possibilities. We are seeing a variety of textures and colours, combined with two or more laying patterns, being used to create a sense of order and define open-plan rooms. For example, a living-kitchen space arranged into entertainment and cooking could use a mix of wood grains and pops of colour in a herringbone laying pattern.

Alternatively, complementary palettes, from pale woods and pastel stones, to rich timbers and concrete textures can be utilised to deliver an impactful space.

When it comes to durability, the ever-popular LVT provides complete resilience and design freedom while withstanding heavy traffic and resisting scuffs, scratches and stains. LVT

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Build Focus: House-Building

By Jason Hughes, Managing Director of Imperial Bricks Playing with pattern: using bricks to add colour and kerb appeal

Colour within the lines New-build developments are continuing to spring up in response to the demand for more housing, and while newlybuilt houses are traditionally painted throughout in shades of off-white, there’s certainly scope to cater to individual homebuyers’ tastes through the use of colour.

Paint manufacturers, including Crown Paints, regularly invest in colour, whether through identifying trends or having colour teams on hand to assist specifiers in choosing the right shade for the job. Key trends for this year include ‘Botanical Noir’, which celebrates nature through forest green and teal shades mixed with pops of pink and metallic gold, the earthy terracotta and dusky pinks of ‘Unprocessed’, and the darker chocolate and plum shades of ‘Pigment’ which are ideal for use with metallic rose golds and granite top greys.

Embracing new colour schemes is a great way to appeal to homebuyers who want their new house to feel both stylish and homely, and so for those working in the commercial sector, keeping up-to-date with the latest style trends is essential.

The availability of new colour trend palettes allows housebuilders to offer potential customers an alternative to the sector’s standard cream shades, which can add that extra appeal to those wanting to make their mark on their new homes straight away.

As with all colour palettes, ‘Botanical Noir’, ‘Unprocessed’ and ‘Pigment’ all have complementary neutrals available alongside the bolder shades, which are ideal for walls while the darker blues, greens and pinks can provide a striking alternative. www.crownpaintspec.co.uk

to provide new, usually upmarket homes – a Peckham pub conversion was reskinned with Weathered Original London Stock bricks to give it a more residential feel, while also bringing it closer to the look of the original property, with contrasting glazed tiles for the bottom part of the wall for a traditional ‘pub-style’ finish.The 10 warehouse-style apartments, designed by Vanquish Developments use brick slips internally too, creating ‘exposed brickwork’ feature walls for an upmarket look.

Whether it’s using an unusual bond or picking out details in contrasting colours, bricks can add touches to a development which make for great kerb appeal. A recent Cheshire development is a prime example, where a reclamation-style metric brick was used in a standard stretcher bond, with a decorative course of bricks laid in English bond, standing proud of the building – a subtle touch which adds interest and character to the homes. In contrast, a project in Oxford used contrasting yellow and red bricks to make an extension to a Victorian house blend perfectly with the original building.They’re all great examples of what house-builders and developers can do with bricks. www.imperialbricks.co.uk

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By Jemma Saunders, Colour Consultant at Crown Paints

Unlike some construction materials, bricks have never gone out of fashion; brick buildings from every era can be seen in most UK towns.They are very much on-trend now; we’re seeing higher demand in particular for regionally appropriate handmade bricks, for both conservation, refurbishment and new-build projects.

Colours and finishes vary around the country, depending on local materials which were originally used to make bricks.

Previously, it has been difficult for specifiers and developers to find an exact match for some traditional bricks in the quality and quantity required, particularly as reclaims are increasingly hard to source and expensive. Metric versions of handmade bricks (to work with modern blocks and lintels) were also fairly rare in some regions.

However, there’s now more choice of colour, size and texture available on the market, and bricks are being used much more imaginatively by house-builders and commercial developers looking to differentiate their projects.

The trend for smaller, niche developments of four or five houses in towns and villages, or in cities, where infill or brownfield sites are used, means developers have more scope.

There’s also a thriving market in re-purposing existing buildings

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Build Focus: House-Building

By Jordan Lilford, Product Manager at Vent-Axia Achieving optimum ventilation

By Chris Frankland, Housebuilders Marketing Director at Marshalls Adding value to developments frequently cost as little as 20% of the installed cost of a pavement, driveway or road, so a few pounds per square metre on blocks or flags will make little difference to the overall cost of the installed system. Clever design can also create sub-base installations that are shallower, quicker and less expensive to install than those suggested by the British Standard – another factor that could put outstanding hard landscaping well within your budget.

Crucially though, once the designs have been agreed, quality installation is the only way to ensure that your development stays looking great for years to come. A thoughtfully designed, wellinstalled development featuring good quality products is the best advertisement for the homes you sell – and early engagement with the right suppliers can make that less expensive than you might think. www.marshalls.co.uk

Filtration MVHR filters can remove pollen, debris and products of pollution, helping ensure the indoor air is cleaner and healthier than air coming in via a window. Filters up to ISO ePM2.5 70% (F7 grade) ensure even homes in heavily urbanised areas can filter out most impurities, up to and including PM2.5 particles, e.g. diesel particulates. A filter-check warning can alert households when filters need changing, helping maintain the quality of incoming air.

Controls An integral infinitely variable fan speed control on supply and extract is vital for effective, efficient ventilation. Since moisture is the most common household pollutant leading

to mould growth, an integral humidity sensor is also essential to improving IAQ, increasing fan speed in proportion to relative humidity levels, saving energy and reducing noise for households. This type of sensor reacts to small but rapid increases in humidity, even if the normal trigger threshold is not reached, ensuring adequate ventilation, even for the smallest wetroom. A night-time relative humidity setback feature suppresses nuisance tripping as humidity gradually increases with falling temperature.

App commissioning App-controlled MVHR units allow consumers to monitor efficiency, boost airflow, schedule ventilation or order filters.They can also aid commissioning, helping ensure optimum performance, so improving IAQ. The latest controls with Wi-Fi connection via an app offer a commissioning process which removes the need for installers to repeatedly return to the unit during airflow commissioning.

A simple idea enabled by a smartphone app makes a huge difference to installation ease and speed, encouraging best practice. www.vent-axia.com

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First impressions count and kerb appeal sells houses.

Before your customer has even set foot inside one of your homes, they’ve developed an opinion on it.

The external infrastructure of a development is often at the bottom of a developer’s priority list, but it helps to create a sense of community and individuality – and makes a real difference to the value of the homes you sell.

Engaging suppliers as early as possible to receive sound, warranted installation advice can drive significant cost out of a build, freeing up budget so your architects and designers can be as creative with the outside space as they have with the homes themselves. Working with a reputable supplier who really understands your objectives could make high-spec, premium driveways and access roads far more affordable than you might think.

It’s worth bearing in mind that surfacing materials

Growing awareness of the need for good indoor air quality (IAQ) is highlighting the many fresh air benefits of mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR). A raft of research has pointed to the health impact of breathing in polluted air.

MVHR is an attractive solution for new-build properties since it not only extracts damaging pollutants but also allows the air coming into the home to be filtered, taking out harmful airborne bacteria and contaminants. MVHR is also highly energy-efficient, giving developers valuable reductions in dwelling emissions rates and is designed with silence a key parameter.

So, what should housebuilders consider when specifying MVHR to help improve IAQ?

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It takes a long time to create perfection.

Once in a while a product comes along and changes everything, from the way it’s crafted to the way it works. Products are often copied and many are great ideas that never really see true success in their application. Many years are spent searching for a product that will ultimately surpass expectations, stand the test of time and become recognised as the leader in its field.

We created one of those successful products nearly two decades ago and still today it has never been equalled.

Why? Because we have never compromised on quality.

UNIFOLDÂŽ Unrivalled excellence in gutter lining technology. www.gutterliners.com

RCI

Why green and blue roofs appeal to planning The increasing recognition of climate change among local and central governmental bodies is resulting in greater demand for green and blue roof technologies by planning authorities.

Amanda de Sousa, Product Systems Manager at BMI UK & Ireland, explains what needs they meet in a drainage context.

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n 1st May this year, the UK Parliament declared an Environment and Climate Emergency, the first national Government to do so. With the built environment estimated to account for around 40% of the UK’s carbon footprint, we are seeing these commitments playing out through local and national planning policies.

New laws and planning guidance related to flood prevention, urban greening and energy efficiency mean that authorities are looking for developments that help them to meet their environmental aspirations.

Against this backdrop, green or blue roofs can be a useful addition to proposed

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developments. Some authorities are strongly recommending green roofs, others mandating them. Mentions of blue roofs – relative newcomers to the roofing scene in this country – are starting to appear in planning guidance relating to sustainable drainage systems (SuDS).

Green roofs, whether an extensive sedumtype variety or an intensive roof garden, help attenuate rainwater, increase biodiversity, reduce urban heat island effects and improve air and water quality.There are wellbeing and community value benefits too. An increasing number of architects and developers are recognising the benefits of biophilic design, where plants – or elements that mimic nature – are included inside and outside a building.

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The components of an extensive green roof generally comprise the waterproofing system, a protective fleece, drainage board, filter layer, free-draining substrate for the plants and the plants themselves, often sedum. An intensive green roof would normally incorporate a trafficable drainage board with greater compressive strength and swap the free-draining substrate for a deeper layer of topsoil.

Blue roofs slow the flow of water from a roof, reducing the risk of sewers reaching capacity and flooding. Blue roofs contain rainfall within a void-containing layer with flow-restricting outlets to control the flow.

A typical build-up for an inverted blue roof would comprise a waterproofing layer, insulation, void former, filter layer and the top, permeable, layer or ballast. The permeable layer could be a green roof which would increase the system’s attenuation capacity further.

Policy patterns Existing national legislation and policy already encourages planners to look for sustainable building elements such as green or blue roofs in new developments.

These include the Wildlife & Countryside Act, the National Planning Policy Framework; Securing the Future, the UK’s sustainable development strategy and Approved Document L, Conservation of Fuel and Power.

RCI

complement its 2008 London Plan. The draft New London Plan encourages the use of blue roofs for the first time, stating that rainwater harvesting – including green and blue roofs – should be the first option for a sustainable drainage strategy in its Policy SI13 Sustainable Drainage.

In built-up areas, other forms of water attenuation such as ponds or below-ground water storage tanks are simply not possible.

And even where tanks may be possible, they are likely to be far more costly and more complicated to access and maintain than a blue roof.

At national level, the Environment Agency launched a draft of its latest National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy, a document that is now being revised following consultation. Planning is likely to be centre stage in the strategy, with authorities urged to take a more holistic view which includes the use of SuDS. The principal behind SuDs is that new developments should produce the same run-off rates as a greenfield site, with surface water managed as close as possible to its source. Hence the attraction of blue roofs. In Wales, the inclusion of SuDS became mandatory from 7th January 2019 for all new developments over 100m2.

In England, national planning policy advises that major new developments should incorporate SuDS, yet there are no signs that it will become mandatory.

Adding value Atypically for a green or blue roof provider, BMI UK & Ireland offers a comprehensive range of designs, allowing for bespoke solutions – whether in waterproofing systems or planting – that can meet all needs, not to mention the challenges of planning requirements. Specifiers must recognise that such roofs are a specialist element, requiring a precise specification, detailing, installation and inspection regime. BMI can provide technical and quality assurance support in this regard; and its six-step specification service ranges from consultation site surveys, and specification; leading to installation support and site inspections which ultimately conclude with industry-leading roof systems guarantees.

Looking beyond capital outlay, green and blue roofs add value to the environment and communities.They can reduce lifetime carbon footprints and remove or lower costs caused by flooding. For authorities looking to reduce their carbon footprints and meet climate change commitments, they can be an attractive proposition for would-be developments.

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Some authorities, such as Sheffield, Manchester, London and Edinburgh, have incorporated these policies into green city strategies which feed through into their local plans. Such strategies encompass the need to make cities or regions climateresilient, how to ensure that developments are sustainable, ways to reduce air pollution and, of course, the overriding need to cut carbon emissions.

Some councils are actively calling for green roofs. Sheffield City Council, for instance, which boasts the largest proportion of green roofs after London, says in its Guideline CC1 that all large developments should have green roofs covering at least 80% of the total roof area.

Large developments are classed as those with 10 dwellings or more or over 1000m2 gross internal floor space.

Urban greening – which involves covering walls and small pieces of land, as well as roofs, in plants – is moving up the agenda in many UK cities. London has just introduced the Urban Greening Factor (UGF) in its draft New London Plan, a move which is likely to be copied by others. The UGF is a tool to quantify the amount and quality of urban greening that a new scheme provides and will be used to inform planning decisions.

Like Sheffield, London has been actively encouraging green roofs for over a decade, publishing a guide to green roofs to

www.bmigroup.com/uk

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Thermal Break Solutions

The efficiency of buildings in light of the 2008 Climate Change Act In recent years, there have been huge amounts of pressure exerted on architects and specifiers to drastically improve the energy efficiency of new and existing buildings. Following the 2008 Climate Change Act, a target was set to reduce carbon emissions by 80% compared to levels seen in 1990, all by 2050, with an initial reduction of at least 34% seen by 2020.

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he building environment counts for 45% of the total UK carbon emissions (27% from domestic buildings and 18% from nondomestic), making it a key area to target in the fight to reduce carbon levels. Tom Bovan, Project Engineer at thermal break specialist, Armatherm, discusses how building designs have changed over the years to conform to the new regulations and meet 2020 targets, and how this approach can continue to create more efficient structures ahead of 2050.

With the need to reduce carbon emissions becoming more and more important, it’s imperative for energy-efficient solutions to be developed and incorporated within building structures. Revolutionary designs are now appearing on the market in a bid to light the way for more efficient structures to meet the upcoming regulations.

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There’s a number of applications that are based around efficiency, green roof systems are a prime example.These unique roofs are covered in living vegetation and have been created to help the environment in a number of ways, including providing habitat to wildlife and reducing water waste.The ideal setting for these is a parapet roof location. For the efficiency to be maximised, architects should look at thermal break solutions.

Roof-to-wall parapet locations require structural framing for support, preventing continuous insulation from roof to facade.This creates a thermal bridge where temperatures can transfer, and subsequently, energy is lost.

The inclusion of a thermal break under the parapet, connecting the facade and roof insulation, can improve the effective R-value by as much as 30%.This can easily be done as part of a renovation project, or during the construction stages of a new build.

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Another key element assisting in the decline of carbon emissions over the years is incorporating effective, new methods of glazing and insulation within a structure, as ensuring less energy loss through windows and walls is a key way of keeping temperatures stable within a building.

New double and triple glazing solutions have layers of pressured gas within the glass for added insulation. Incorporating insulation within the wall space can dramatically improve efficiency too, and as so much heat is lost out of a building’s roof, it’s essential these are properly insulated. Products on the market, such as multifoil, have been developed specifically to improve efficiency with vapour control and space-saving properties. It can also be made from up to 40% recycled materials and has a life expectancy of more than 50 years.

Thermal Break Solutions

new builds connected to the gas grid too.

These steps ensure a brighter future for the construction industry with means and ways of creating efficient structures that will stand the test of time.

It’s essential that thermal breaks are used within these new builds and renovation projects.The most advanced methods of energy saving can be made completely redundant if the fixings and fastenings, concrete columns, steel framework and building envelope aren’t properly isolated and protected from thermal bridges. With the potential to improve efficiencies by up to 80%, architects simply can’t afford to ignore these solutions.

Final thoughts

As architects continue to work with developers to create sustainable, energyefficient buildings, understanding the latest technologies available on the market has never been more important. A detail that is commonly overlooked, a simple yet effective thermal break, can save hundreds of thousands on the overall energy costs of a building, making thermal solutions one of the most important elements an architect can invest in when working on major construction projects.

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When it comes to keeping heat within a building, cladding is often used to add an additional layer of insulation. It also offers structural support and protection from the outside elements. If the steel cladding framework is used to bridge the insulation envelope, it will conduct heat straight out of the building. Inserting a non-metallic thermal break to support cladding structures can eliminate this heat transfer, with the additional benefit of preventing condensation and temperature changes when extending into the building envelope.

Thermal breaks are an essential part of creating more efficient structures. More often than not, they’re overlooked, meaning that any other methods of making a building efficient, such as cladding, can be made redundant as the fixtures used to attach the cladding can cause thermal bridges.

Using a thermal break can cut down energy loss by up to 80% for commercial properties, making massive savings on the running costs of these buildings. With 2020 right around the corner, the emissions will need to have dropped 34% since 1990 to ensure the industry is on track to meet the 2050 regulation. So, how can buildings continue evolving to be more efficient?

There’s a number of progression plans on the horizon including turning to hydrogen as opposed to natural gasses to heat homes, and aiming to ensure as many UK homes as possible are rated EPC Band C or above by 2035. From 2025, there’s an aim to have no

www.armatherm.com

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35

HVAC & IAQ

Clearing the air: the importance of improving IAQ While many architectural trends come and go, a consistent factor for modern building design is the improvement of health and wellbeing. With increased research on the levels of pollutants in indoor spaces, we’re expecting more from buildings in terms of how they support our bodies and minds. Here, Tony Walker, Technical Specification Controller at PPG Architectural Coatings, explains why indoor air quality (IAQ) is becoming a vital consideration for building design and how architects and designers can make sure their developments hit the mark.

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ccording to a recent report commissioned by the charity Clean Air Day, nearly half of UK homes have high levels of indoor air pollution.The report analysed 47 homes across Birmingham, London and the home counties and concluded that a fifth of these properties contained high levels of formaldehyde, which can be damaging to health, causing headaches and tiredness. In fact, 13% of the homes exceeded the World

36

Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines for formaldehyde, while almost half had unhealthy levels of other Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).

Reports suggest that we are spending more and more time indoors, with most of us spending no more than one-tenth of our time outside, which is a frightening revelation.

As modern lifestyles and occupations continue to draw us into the comfort of indoor spaces, environmental bodies are now encouraging

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architects and specifiers to revisit their normal practices. It’s becoming increasingly important for all parties involved in a building’s design to consider the extent to which the specified materials and products can affect indoor air quality. As a result of this, a growing number of architects are looking for solutions that contribute to living and working spaces and support the wellbeing of occupants.

Taking a stand against pollution

BREEAM, LEED and the International WELL Building Institute, which promote health and wellbeing in the built environment, are beginning to tackle the issue, now including indoor air quality within their assessments.

HVAC & IAQ

1

2

KEY: 01. AIR PURIFYING TECHNOLOGY NEUTRALISES

3

FORMALDEHYDE

02. INTERIOR WALL 03. FORMALDEHYDE

As a result of this improved research and attention, architects and designers now have their choice of a growing number of techniques and products that can help facilitate improved indoor air quality.

Simple steps to cleaner air

There are simple measures specifiers can take in order to neutralise high levels of polluted indoor air or limit the harmful emissions in the first place. Natural, untreated materials such as wood should be specified above synthetic fabrics, including carpets and rugs, as they are easier to clean.This makes it harder for the materials to harbour dust and any potentially toxic particles that are emitted from VOC producers.

Ventilation is also a key factor to ensuring improved air quality. Central heating and tightly closed windows will only exacerbate the containment of VOCs, as outdoor air is needed to dilute any indoor airborne pollutants. Factoring in enough windows and doors into the design is key, but this may not suitable for every building; for example, health and safety regulations can often prohibit these design features in high-rise developments. In such circumstances, suitable technology that can help purify the air, such as HVAC systems, can be specified.

Some designers prefer to take a natural approach by incorporating biophilic design.

Placing plants and flowers throughout a space helps to promote psychological wellbeing, but can also help to clean the air. Plants take in pollutants and CO2, while at the same time

increasing oxygen levels, making them an effective natural solution.Taking this one step further, architects can even install ‘living green walls’ that act as a bio-filter.

In certain cases, implementing these measures simply isn’t practical.Therefore, more and more manufacturers are designing versions of products that would ordinarily be present in buildings, but are designed to have lower emission levels, with some even improving air quality. For example, flooring is now available that emits virtually no VOCs and captures dust particles from the atmosphere.

At PPG, similar innovations have been developed in the form of interior coatings.

As part of our sustainability commitment, all of our emulsion paints are water-based and contain low amounts VOCs.

A cleaner future

Judging by the positive developments that have been made over the past few years, we expect there will be an upward trajectory for improved indoor air quality. As construction regulations continue to acknowledge indoor air quality within their guidelines and evaluations, we can hope that in time such considerations will become legally enforceable.

Until we reach this point, it is up to architects to embrace product innovations that can help sustain healthy levels of indoor air quality.This is one piece in the puzzle of creating indoor environments that will improve occupants’ lives.

www.johnstonestrade.com/airpure www.ppg.com

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The concentration of VOCs presents a particular concern and has, therefore, received the most amount of attention in the battle against indoor air pollution.These harmful chemicals include formaldehyde which is present in all houses and public spaces in varying concentrations. VOCs such as formaldehyde are emitted from everyday materials and products such as chipboard, carpet, fireboard, furniture and indoor fabrics, and BREEAM awards credit to those who can confirm concentrations are within defined guidelines at the post-construction phase. In fact, as of 2018, the BREEAM New Construction manual considers an Indoor Air Quality Plan a pre-requisite that must be completed at RIBA Stage 2.

The need for reduced levels of indoor air pollution has also gained the attention of the UK Government, as demonstrated by their recent studies on intercity air quality and the introduction of preventative measures.

Earlier this year, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan launched a series of air quality audits to help protect young children in the capital’s schools. Five nurseries took part in the air quality filtration studies, which proved that air pollution was significantly higher inside classrooms, leading to some institutions upgrading their facilities.

Additionally, as of July this year, The Institute of Air Quality Management has for the first time expanded its remit to cover issues related to indoor air quality; until this point, there had been no representative body dedicated to improving the issue.

Coatings & Fixings

Lindapter provides solution for securing architectural glass prism facade

©Progetto CMR

The Isola district of Milan has recently undergone a major transformation, making it one of the most attractive areas of the city. Due to the prime location of De Castillia 23 and its excellent transport links, Gruppo Unipol decided to renovate the building and occupy it as its headquarters.

Unipol wanted to create an innovative and contemporary building in keeping with the area.The large-scale restoration work aimed to completely change the building’s aesthetic features, but also to improve its functionality, energy performance and the overall efficiency of the building’s management.

The architect firm, Progetto CMR, proposed an unusual glass prism facade design, aimed at reflecting sunlight in a constantly different way. This required a method of connecting the glass support brackets to the hollow tubular sections forming the facade.

The structural engineer for this project decided to specify the Flush Fit Hollo-Bolt by Lindapter, an expansion bolt that requires access to only one side of a Structural Hollow Section (SHS).

Hollo-Bolt was chosen as it offered significant benefits including fast installation, high strength capacity, clean visual finish and a range of independent technical accreditations, which include the CE Mark and ETA to achieve a design compliant with Eurocode 3.

The main contractor, MAP Carpenteria, used a total of 6800 size M8 Hollo-Bolts to connect the glass support brackets to the facade framework of two buildings.

Installation was quick and easy as each bolt is simply inserted into pre-drilled holes and tightened with a torque wrench to the recommended tightening torque to provide the necessary clamping force.

8 www.lindapter.com

* dhaigh@lindapter.com ( 01274

521444

Thousands of Powdertech coated panels installed at the Riyadh Metro

Powdertech Corby is providing powder coating services for Riyadh’s new six-line metro, the world’s biggest urban rail project outside China, costing around £14.7bn.

As one of Saudi Arabia’s most prestigious projects, leading architects including Zaha Hadid Architects have been commissioned to design the major stations and these are set to make an incredible impression with sweeping canopies, light-reflecting curves and arches of gleaming metalwork.

Powdertech is coating over 13000 panels of perforated aluminium, weighing 146 tonnes and 14,600 individually machined unique fixing brackets. Each triangular perforated panel forms part of an arc and is secured by brackets at its corners, all of which are on a slightly different angle, due to the curved design. All the panels and brackets are marked with unique codes so that the appropriately angled brackets hold the panel and the panel goes into the right

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position on the facade. A Qualicoat Class 2 Axalta powder, RAL9006 is the chosen shade for the panelling.

“As with many of our larger architectural projects, this job includes high demands for operational logistics, dealing with the numerous parts and collating them correctly,” said Richard Besant, Director at Powdertech.“Weekly batches of triangular panels and brackets are dispatched to Riyadh. We are very used to managing this process and ensuring that parts are clearly identified and coated and delivered in sequence.”

The Riyadh Metro is expected to open in the second half of 2020 and will carry 1.16 million passengers a day in the initial phase of operation, with the capacity to carry 3.6 million passengers as usage grows.

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8 www.powdertechcorby.co.uk * pcl@powdertech.co.uk ( 01536

400890

HAVE THEY GOT

THE RIGHT CARD?

Make sure those carrying out scaffolding operations on your site are qualified to do so with our FREE scaffolder card A1 site poster. Email enquiries@cisrs.org.uk for your copy today.

For more information visit www.cisrs.org.uk

SETTING THE STANDARD FOR SCAFFOLDING The NASC is the national trade body for access and scaffolding in the UK and has been setting the industry benchmark for nearly 80 years. Our full contracting members are among the best in the business, accounting for the vast majority of the UK’s scaffolding spend – with a total annual turnover in excess of £2 billion – and are independently audited every year.

For demonstrably safe, skilled and compliant contractors it has to be NASC. www.nasc.org.uk

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39

Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Mapei completes FRP structural strengthening at London office space Mapei products have been used as part of internal renovation works at the Local Government Association’s Layden House office situated in Farringdon, London. The 1970s building underwent significant work, whereby specialist contractor Gunite (Eastern) Ltd requested a feasible solution using Mapei’s composite materials for structural strengthening work.

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he project required new openings to be created through the reinforced concrete slab to provide space for services and a new lift. Before cutting the openings, the slabs needed to be

strengthened to redistribute the loads around the hole which meant designing for increased flexural loads and, where the holes were close to columns, also designing for punching shear. A feasible solution was proposed by

Mapei, which included the use of Mapewrap C Fiocco carbon fibre cord and Carboplate, a pultruded carbon fibre plate pre-impregnated with epoxy-based resin.

The proposed design was accepted by the client as a cost-effective solution. The solution was approved and adopted by the engineers, and it was implemented by Gunite (Eastern) Ltd after it was instructed to undertake the work by the main contractor Gilbert-Ash. The design, where the service holes were cut near to columns, involved bonding Mapei Carboplate E170 plates to the top of the slab, with the plates on top of the slab connected into the column with the Mapewrap C Fiocco. This increased the ultimate slab deflection and improved the punching shear capacity of the slab.

Where the new lift was to be later installed, the design required a larger section of the slab to be cut out, which involved bonding Carboplate E170 plates around the location of the new lift and would, therefore, control the distribution of bending moments around the hole.

After the surface preparation of all the areas to receive Mapei Carboplate, holes were drilled into the junction of the column and the slab for the application of Mapewrap C Fiocco. Once the holes were drilled, Mapewrap C Fiocco carbon fibre connectors – previously prepared by cutting the cord to the designed length and impregnating half the cut length in Mapewrap 31 adhesive and allowing them to dry – were inserted into the holes leaving half the cut length protruding from the hole.

Carboplate E170 was then applied to the prepared concrete slab using Mapewrap Primer 1 and Adesilex PG1 adhesive, as per the design. First, the surface was primed with Mapewrap Primer 1 to ensure a good adhesion to the structural concrete. With the primer still tacky, Adesilex PG1 was applied to the primed substrate, and the cut length of Carboplate E170 was then offered up to the adhesive on the slab and pushed together. A hard rubber roller was then used to apply pressure, ensuring that a full bond was achieved between the concrete substrate and the plate, and ensuring that any excess adhesive was removed.

The Mapewrap C Fiocco that was previously left protruding from the hole had the protective sheath removed, and was then bonded onto the Carboplate E170 using Mapewrap 31 adhesive.

8 www.mapei.com ( 0121

40

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508 6970

Floors, Walls & Ceilings Apprentices get colour confident with Crown

Crown Paints and Bell Decorating Group have given trainee painters and decorators at South Gloucester and Stroud College an insight into how colour and technique work together at the college’s Bell Decorating Academy, as part of a 10-workshop programme with Bell Decorating Group. 17 students at SGS College attended the morning workshop and in the afternoon, the young decorators had the chance to showcase their skills in a competition devised by Crown’s Technical Demonstrator Kevin O’Donnell – a judge in the prestigious Apprentice Decorator of the Year competition. A close contest saw Unique Bennett chosen as the winner, with Abdinasir Dualeh and Joshua Walker taking second and third place. * info@crownpaintspec.co.uk

( 0330 024 0310

8 www.crownpaintspec.co.uk

New StoBrick launch extends options for architects and designers The launch of a new cladding product for externally insulated building facades, has expanded the wide range of design options available from Sto UK – one of the leading external wall insulation system designers.

Developed in response to a demand for a brick cladding solution for use with mineral-fibre based insulation systems, StoBrick gives architects a far greater opportunity to incorporate genuine clay brick finishes into their facade designs, achieving the required A2-s1, d0 fire rating. There are three types of StoBrick available: hand-moulded, water-struck and extruded. A comprehensive range of more than 50 formats, 10 surface textures and 200 colour variants are now available. * info.uk@sto.com

( 0141 892 8000

8 www.sto.co.uk

Designer Contracts named a preferred consortium supplier Designer Contracts – one of the UK’s largest flooring contractors – has been named as a preferred supplier to the Crescent Purchasing Consortium (CPC).

Established almost 20 years ago and with over 6500 members, the CPC is owned and run by the further education sector. It provides members – including colleges and institutions, universities, sixth forms, academies and schools – with specialist advice, spending practices and how to obtain value for money. Designer Contracts was awarded a place on the framework as a preferred supplier for the supply and installation of floorcoverings. It covers contract flooring, domestic grade and hygiene treated carpets, entrance matting, wood flooring, domestic and safety vinyl, linoleum, vinyl and carpet tiles.

8 www.designercontracts.com * enquiries@designercontracts.com ( 01246 854577

Childcare institutions with sound design The design of spaces for children is intriguing because of the permanent influence it can have on them. A new online theme by Danish acoustic panel manufacturer Troldtekt, explores through articles and expert interviews how good acoustics plays its part when designing these areas. Of course, other factors such as colours, shapes, robustness and finishes also have an impact – but so does sound.

Children are noisy and active and the rooms they inhabit are typically large.

School, activity and childcare spaces all affect self-esteem, performance and friendships and help shape the individuals into the adults they’ll become.

Studies, such as Bronzaft and McCarthy 1975, have shown the effect noise has on wellbeing and learning. This is the reason why the products of specialist manufacturers like Troldtekt are specified to solve the problems of noise and reverberated sounds. If acoustic absorption is ineffective, discomfort and irritation

will result from the reverberations. If it’s designed well, the participant’s interest will increase, as many case studies for new and transformed buildings prove.

Specified throughout the UK and Europe, the benefits of 100% Troldtekt natural woodwool panels include high sound absorption, high durability, natural breathability, low-cost lifecycle performance and sustainability. This high performance is recognised by its Cradle to Cradle certification at Silver level. Available in various sizes and in four grades, from extreme fine to coarse, the panels can be left untreated or painted in virtually any RAL colour.

8 www.troldtekt.co.uk * info@troldtekt.co.uk ( 01978

664255

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41

Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Ali-deck is suitable for both steel and concrete balconies and boasts a high load-bearing capacity

Government continues crackdown on combustible materials with updated decking advice With the Government calling for the removal of combustible materials from balconies on residential buildings, owners, specifiers and architects are facing the challenge of finding a non-combustible alternative to traditional timber and composite decking.

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he updated advice from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) followed a serious fire in June at Samuel Garside House in Barking. Flames quickly spread across the building via external wooden balconies, destroying 20 flats and damaging a further 10.

While MHCLG have called on building owners to strip all combustible materials from balconies ‘as soon as practicable,’ their directive is not limited to just buildings over 18m tall.

The Government outlawed combustible materials on buildings above this height in December 2018.

In fact, the recent fire that engulfed the Cube in Bolton has left many industry bodies, including the Fire Protection

42

Association (FPA), urging the next Government to not limit any regulations to ‘the mere height of buildings’, and to instead extend it to cover all buildings.

With the Government’s updated advice putting an increasing spotlight on balconies and decking, Richard Izzard, Managing Director of Ali-deck, has seen a growing number of building owners and industry professionals explore aluminium as a noncombustible replacement for timber and composite solutions.

Richard comments: “The awful fire in Barking and other ‘near misses’ across the country have unfortunately demonstrated that problems stem far beyond cladding alone. Whilst the Government’s latest advice is necessary and to many well overdue, it certainly creates significant challenges for

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existing building owners and architects working on new residential projects.

“With traditional timber and even composite decking no longer viable options, we’ve seen incredible demand for Ali-deck, our new aluminium decking system. In reality, aluminium is the optimal material for decking as it is strong, readily available, recyclable and most importantly, it’s inherently fire-resistant.

“By using aluminium as our base material, we’ve been able to harness these qualities and develop a system which is not only faster and easier to install, but can span 300% further than both timber and composite systems. By eliminating the need for joists every 400mm, there’s a 50% time saving on the underside – even before any deck boards are installed.

“When you then consider that 90% of the deck board can be installed prior to the balcony, there’s a further reduction to time spent on site. Ali-deck is suitable for both steel and concrete balconies and boasts a high load-bearing capacity, requiring less steelwork and, therefore, significantly reducing costs.

“Best of all, Ali-deck carries Class A2-s1 and d0 fire ratings which is undoubtedly welcome news to building owners and professionals across the industry now looking for a safe and reliable solution.

“We’re incredibly proud to bring this unique and innovative solution to market and we’re delighted to be supporting the likes of Barratt Homes and St. George PLC with multiple high-profile projects.

As the industry and central Government continues to raise standards and avoid another painful tragedy like Grenfell, solutions like Ali-deck will continue to play a vital role.”

By using aluminium as the base material, Ali-deck has developed a system which is faster and easier to install than both timber and composite systems

8 www.alideck.co.uk

* info@alideck.co.uk ( 01622

235672

Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Magply boards offer fire protection for Peckham apartments A ‘shell and core’-style apartment development in one of South London’s up-and-coming districts is making use of Magply boards’ fire resistance, as the lining to a bespoke timber frame package.

The five flats are being developed on land adjacent to Peckham Rye railway station by Unboxed Homes, while main contractor Mara Build, has overseen all the service provisions and creation of the sub-structure.

White Haus is the timber frame specialist that has manufactured and erected the energy-efficient structural envelope.

Crucially, given the proximity of the building to neighbouring properties, 9mm Magply has been used to line the timber panels, before being sprayed with a polymer-based membrane to achieve excellent airtightness. The purple finished Magply MgO boards are, therefore, the surface purchasers are presented with to fit-out to their own specification and taste.

Magply boards carry a range of international certifications while its fire performance has been verified through industry standard tests at the worldfamous Warrington fire research centre.

Following a number of high-profile blazes on building sites, such as at Hendon in North London, responsible timber frame manufacturers have been working to reduce their systems’ vulnerability to fire, and Magply provides far better performance than OSB also offering instant protection.

Additionally, Magply’s unique production process keeps the chloride content to just 0.01%, enhancing both stability and longterm durability.

Style’s new London showroom launch a huge success

8 www.magply.co.uk

* john@magply.co.uk ( 01621

776252

Bostik helps Dunstable Leisure Centre refurb go swimmingly

Over 300 architects, specifiers, contractors and clients recently enjoyed the launch party of Style’s London showroom. A market leader in operable wall solutions and the exclusive UK partner to Dorma Hüppe, Skyfold and SWG, Style welcomed the guest list with beer, bubbles and a buffet, whilst demonstrating the latest moveable wall innovations.

Conveniently located in London’s Shoreditch, Style, shares the showroom with Optima Contracting, an expert in glazed partitioning systems, and Atrium, the UK’s largest independent specialist lighting distributor. With all three specialists under one roof, it offers a mouth-watering proposition for anyone involved in the refurb and new-build sectors. As well as seeing Style’s impressive range of moveable wall systems in operation, visitors can better understand their acoustic integrity thanks to the installation of a Biamp Apart Sound System. Calibrated to be set at varying decibel levels, the system accurately replicates the noise of people speaking, as might be present during different sized meetings and events.

A variety of Bostik subfloor preparation products have been specified for the redevelopment of Dunstable Leisure Centre and Library, enabling optimal installation of various flooring types despite wet conditions to facilitate the smooth running of the project. Wates Construction was appointed to carry out the partial demolition and reconstruction of the site, and selected Westcotes Flooring to install the building’s soft and sports flooring – a task that required around 3500m² of material, including rubber, carpet tiles, LVT, vinyl, timber, entrance matting and specialist sports flooring.To get the best possible results on the subfloors,Westcotes turned to Bostik. A range of Bostik products was required to prepare all the subfloors to the ideal standard. For the drier floors, Bostik recommended its Screedmaster Rapid DPM with Screedmaster Flow smoothing compound over the top. Its stronger Screedmaster One Coat Membrane with Universal Primer and Screedmaster Smooth, meanwhile, was the right approach for the wetter areas.

8 www.style-partitions.co.uk

london@style-partitions.co.uk *

8 www.bostik.com

( 0203 752 3838

( 01785 272625

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43

RCI & Facades BMI UK & Ireland is green and blue all over with its new Active Roof Systems Victorian church gets ARP aluminium rainwater system As part of the roof refurbishment for St Mary’s Church in Kettering, the original cast-iron rainwater system had to be replaced. For historic buildings, there are several factors to consider before choosing a new system. Namely, which profiles would retain the aesthetics of the church, material choice, available budget and importantly, if the predicted rainfall intensity would mean a change in gutter sizing. Due to the roof pitch and effective roof area, ARP’s Legacy No. 46 ogee gutter was chosen for the high-level roofs and Legacy plain half round gutter on the lower roofs, with additional downpipes to aid the flow of rainwater from the roof.

8 www.arp-ltd.com * sales@arp-ltd.com ( 0116 298 6501

BMI UK & Ireland has enhanced its portfolio of pitched and flat roofing technology solutions with new Green and Blue Active Roof Systems. Active Roof Systems is how it describes roof coverings that perform a greater function beyond shelter and protection. With the right technologies, roofs can be transformed into power stations, rainwater-recycling systems or an opportunity to reduce energy costs.The BMI Canopia Green Roof offers the chance to create natural spaces in the sky, improving air quality, biodiversity and wellbeing for building users, while the Blue Roof systems control water flow from rooftops and limit flooding during heavy rainfall. * marketingukandi@bmigroup.com

( 01908 015760

8 www.bmigroup.com/uk

Sto goes back to school on a major Midlands project The tremendous design possibilities offered by the StoVentec Glass rainscreen cladding system have been highlighted by a recently completed project at one of the leading Midlands schools. The Sto system was specified for the Wolverhampton Girls’ High School due to the strong visual appeal which matched the architect’s vision for the project. The manufacturing process fuses colours on to the back of the glass, before the toughening process. The colour melts into the glass providing permanent coloured glass panels and the required high degree of reflectivity, which will not wear, scratch, fade or incur water damage. * info.uk@sto.com

( 0141 892 8000

8 www.sto.co.uk

Sika Sarnafil’s explosive success for Royal Gunpowder Mills A historic and archaeological treasure, the Royal Gunpowder Mills heritage site in Waltham Abbey, Essex, has been given a new lease of life with a stunning and sympathetic roof refurbishment. With previous roof coverings across the site’s buildings close to derelict, a new roofing system was needed that would both guarantee a durable solution and fit with the aesthetic of the heritage buildings. To meet those needs, Sika Sarnafil G410-15EL FSA Lead Grey was specified alongside Sarnavap 1000E air and vapour control layer. As a site once home to tonnes of explosives, a strict ban on naked flames and hot works meant that the plywood boards had to be primed immediately after installation and before exposure to any wet weather. The specification, therefore, considered this and the original system, which would have needed a completely dry substrate, was switched to a loose laid polyethylene air and vapour control layer that was more equipped for a faster installation in the expected conditions.

Ravago Building Solutions looks forward to an exciting 2020 2019 has been a year of exciting change for Ravago Building Solutions, following its acquisition from DowDupont Inc.The recent rebranding of its range of grey extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation boards as Ravatherm XPS X and the retirement of legacy brands, is a landmark moment in its 60-year history – and the pace of change won’t be slowing in 2020. Ravago Building Solutions remains determined to lead the industry in innovation, delivering exceptional products designed to meet the needs and desires of our customers, enabling them to construct some of the UK’s most energy-efficient buildings, while pushing design boundaries. Chris Gimson, Commercial Director UK, Ireland, Nordics & Baltics for Ravago Building Solutions, comments: “2020 is going to be an exciting year for us and we cannot wait for you to see everything that we have in store.”

8 www.gbr.sarnafil.sika.com * sarnafilroofing@uk.sika.com

8 www.ravagobuildingsolutions.co.uk

( 01707 394444

* orders.uk.rbs@ravago.com

44

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RCI & Facades Brett Martin adds tranquil Chartwell Green to the Cascade Brett Martin Plumbing and Drainage has launched a new colour option to the range Cascade Cast Iron Style Rainwater and Soil

Sika Sarnafil roof triumphs at Scottish Roofing Awards

Systems range, adding ‘Chartwell Green’ to the mix of eight heritage colours, allowing architects to capitalise on this increasingly popular and harmonious colour on windows and doors on both new-build and renovation projects. Sought-after for its tranquil aesthetic and historical appeal, Chartwell Green will bring a touch of country charm to homes and is a welcomed addition to the Cascade Cast Iron Style Rainwater and Soil system. Other heritage colours include Classic Black, Anthracite Grey, Oxford Blue, Olive Green, Graphite Grey, Sandstone and Porcelain White – all of which cater to the subtle nuances of local vernacular architecture as well as reflecting the trend for priming and painting traditional systems.The complete colour range delivers the traditional appearance of cast iron with the convenience of modern plastic materials.

Sika Sarnafil – a single-ply roofing manufacturer – and Glasgow-based contractor Ashton Building Systems have triumphed at the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), Scottish Roofing Contractor of the Year Awards 2019. The awards, which recognise outstanding standards of workmanship and technical expertise in the roofing industry within Scotland, saw the refurbished roof of Clydebank’s striking, geometric Waterfront Parish Church come out on top in the ‘Single Ply Roofing’ category. Tasked with installing a new waterproofing system, as well as upgrading the thermal value of the roof and improving roof access for safe and easy future maintenance, Ashton opted for a mechanically fixed Sarnafil system. S327-15EL in lead grey was specified due to its ease and speed of installation and the fact that it could be fixed onto the existing roof decking. The system was installed across a total of 10 roof areas, resulting in a 15-year system guarantee and an added five-year diminishing warranty by Sika Sarnafil.

8 www.brettmartin.com

8 www.gbr.sika.com

building@brettmartin.com *

* sarnafilroofing@uk.sika.com

( 01246 280000

( 01707 394444

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For more information 01708 25 35 11 sales@brundle.com www.fhbrundle.co.uk CONTEMPORARY SYSTEM

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45

HVAC & Electricals

Rinnai’s energy-efficient multipoint water heater – never run out of hot water again Now available for domestic applications, from Rinnai, are the 11i A+rated continuous flow gas-fired water heaters, with high energy efficiencies, low running costs and a consistent delivery of temperature accurate water.

Rinnai makes over two million water heaters per year and as such, is at the forefront of creating unit cost advantages for installers.

The units are probably the most competitively priced type of their kind currently available on the UK market.

The lightweight 15kg Rinnai 11i is a modern-day variant on the multipoint water heater – plus all technological advances and innovations – yet at a very similar cost to its lower specification counterparts.

Rinnai’s multipoint water heaters are far more energy-efficient than outdated storage systems and so, are the preferred water heating method of choice in domestic properties, light commercial sites and smaller to mid-sized outlets.

The compact design can be installed in the smallest of spaces and features easy-to-use digital controls.

These units deliver high volumes of water instantly at any time of the day, or night, all at accurate temperatures for user comfort and safety.They eliminate the problem of sudden changes in water temperature, resulting in cold showers or scalding-hot baths.The water temperature you set is the water temperature you get. Therefore, if somebody is showering at 42°C and a tap is turned on to draw a bath, the temperature does not vary and neither user will run out of hot water.

8 www.rinnaiuk.com ( 01928

531870

Commtel releases new, updated app, ‘Commtel GSM One’

New over-floor heating, quick to install with rapid response

Commtel – the specialist in telephonebased entry systems,Telguard & Optimus – has announced its updated app,‘GSM One’.The launch forms part of Commtel’s overall strategy for continuous improvement to common door entry, access control and security issues across a range of sectors.

The app – which is designed specifically for engineers and installers to help better serve their end-users – includes new and exciting features; such as the ability to set 10 call points (whereas the previous limit was four) and the ability to set time profiles, meaning installers can set start and end times for individual access. For example, a business owner can request an installer to only grant access to employees during their shift time, and deny access at weekends, improving security and giving peace of mind for the business owner. Furthermore, the app provides installers and engineers with handy service reminders and PAYG balance updates, to help provide a better service to their customers.

Underfloor heating expert Wunda Group has created Wundatherm – a rapid response over-floor system, 16mm or 20mm thick, that can be laid without the need to dig up floors and is suitable for retrofit and new-build homes. Wundatherm consists of pre-formed aluminiumcoated boards that are bonded to the floor with spray adhesive. Once in place, high-output 16mm floor heating pipe is laid into the preformed grooves in the boards, with up to 150m2 taking two people just two days to install. Once the boards and pipes are down, any floorcovering can be laid straight away. Compatible with heat pumps, solar panels or any existing gas/oil boilers, Wundatherm can be laid by any tradesmen and only requires a plumber to commission the system and an electrician to fit the controls.The leak-proof pipes carry a lifetime guarantee and take minutes to reach operating temperature, unlike screed which can take up to 48 hours.

8 www.commtel-uk.com

8 www.wundatrade.co.uk

sales@commtel-uk.com *

* plans@wundagroup.com

( 01306 710120

( 0800 083 2677

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HVAC & Electricals MiniSteam E: The smart way to humidify small and medium spaces

Lancashire house-builder chooses NIBE heat pumps Chipping Homes has specified air source heat pumps from NIBE for its Fellside development in the Ribble Valley. 32 three- to five-bedroom homes on the development, are being fitted with NIBE F2040 air source heat pumps, which are ideal for meeting all heating and hot water requirements.The heat pumps have a discreet appearance and offer low noise levels, where the collector unit will be installed in the majority of cases, externally to the garage.The remaining seven properties are smaller bungalows built for the local over 55s community, and these are being fitted with NIBE F730 Exhaust Air Heat Pump systems, which offer ventilation, alongside heating and hot water.

The new MiniSteam E from HygroMatik is the safe and smart solution for direct room humidification.The electrode humidifier operates with normal tap water to generate pure, mineral-free steam and is made from quality parts to guarantee a long service life. For rooms with no centrally controlled air-conditioning system, the MiniSteam E offers an excellent and efficient alternative for humidification. Its compact design is easy to install and wall mountable, ensuring optimum humidity distribution in every room. A maximum steam output of five or 10kg/h makes the MiniSteam E just right for the humidification of small to medium rooms.

8 www.nibe.eu

8 www.hygromatik.com

info@nibe.co.uk *

* info@hygromatik.co.uk

( 0330 311 2201

( 02380 443127

Testing in progress...

From Durability and Aesthetics, Structural and Mechanical testing to Weather Resistance and Fenestration Security assessments, BBA experts test products to make sure they meet the highest industry standards. When testing construction components and systems as safe and fit-forpurpose, don’t cut corners. Go to the experts.

Works of passion. Built on integrity. Tested by the best.

Contact our dedicated team on testing@bbacerts.co.uk, T: 01923 665300 or visit our website www.bbacerts.co.uk/test-services to learn more.

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47

Doors, Windows & Balustrades

Clear Space from CRL, maximises on space in compact areas and can create an accessible shower area for wheelchair users and the less able

The range of frameless shower hardware available from CRL makes installing a shower possible in virtually any space

Shower design in the frame

With the size of the average UK bathroom shrinking, how can these small spaces be designed to maximise on comfort and quality? Simon Boocock, CRL Managing Director, looks at some of the options.

B

athrooms in the UK are notoriously ‘compact’, with the average size being around 2.4 x 1.8m. This goes for hotel bathrooms, as well as those in domestic settings, and leaves it difficult to plan in terms of function and comfort when you consider that a bath or shower will take up the majority of that floor space.

Of course, the bathroom is a practical space but it is now very much regarded as a place of sanctuary and relaxation too. In the home, the bathroom is now an extension of our living spaces while for hotels this is where good first impressions are either won or lost. Despite its size, there is a huge onus on the bathroom to deliver in terms of comfort and luxury. For this reason, frameless shower enclosures are now a staple feature of many

48

bathrooms, seeing an end to bulky shower enclosures that encroach on space and simply serve as a visual obstacle.

Modern frameless enclosures are available in a vast range of configurations that can be worked to the room’s advantage. From a steam room with floor-to-ceiling all-glass panels fixed by u-channels and connected with hinges and clamps, to a simple sliding door system or fixed glass panel supported by a stabilisation bar, the options are endless, enabling a bespoke shower area to be created in practically any space.

This is particularly advantageous in awkwardly-shaped bathrooms, such as loft extensions, where sloping ceilings need to be taken into account. As well as visual appeal, such solutions will also have practical advantages as the population ages.

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Hygiene and ease of cleaning are also key factors, not just domestically but in commercial environments too, such as hotel bathrooms. While framed shower enclosures have many intricate corners where dirt, moist and mildew can accumulate, the minimalistic design of frameless showers does not allow deposits of dirt to build up. This creates a hygienic solution in moist and humid environments and are more durable, while also reducing water retention.

An alternative solution that works particularly well in the smaller bathroom is to opt for a sliding shower door. This keeps architectural hardware to an absolute minimum for a really neat finish, with only the header support bar and track holder being visible. Where support bars and brackets are on show, ensuring they fit with the overall style of the bathroom is key, and again less is more.

Where it’s visible, shower hardware is now evolving towards unique finishes, such as dark matt black, brushed bronze, polished brass and even off-white, enabling the bespoke effect to be followed right through to the finishing touches.

8 www.crlaurence.co.uk * crl@crlaurence.co.uk ( 01706

863600

Doors, Windows & Balustrades

Vicaima Visual Sensations in New Valley finish

Fresh ideas for Interior Doors in 2020

As a new decade commences, professionals everywhere are seeking fresh inspiration for interiors, whether for commercial spaces or residential living.

T

his desire for innovative performance and trend-setting designs is most notable when it comes to interior doors, whose influence upon a room can have a marked effect on the surrounding decor, by lifting and invigorating adjacent space.

Bringing clarity to this process is Vicaima, which has just launched its 2020 Interior Door Selector. Packed with ideas, this brochure is an essential tool for every specifier.

Now an annual and eagerly anticipated event, the 2020 edition of the Vicaima Interior Door Selector has over 100 pages filled with doors and doorsets that suit a multitude of applications, tastes and budgets. The simple-to-navigate layout has been designed to make the selection process straightforward, with at-aglance guides to form, function and fire, or indeed other desired performance

criteria. Every range also shows a simple Price Indicator, allowing easy comparison between potential options for that perfect specification.

New for 2020,Vicaima has introduced some pioneering products that are certain to gain wide appeal. Primed 2 Go is a revolutionary, polymer-faced door for painting that requires no surface sanding or priming, saving time and money on site.

Deep Textured Finish creates the authentic touch of an open grain in a matt finish that can be applied to a selection of veneered and stained veneered doors. And finally an extension to the Visual Sensation foil door range, which introduces four new matt finishes and new horizontal grain options, in both the Naturdor Stained and Dekordor SD Foil ranges.

Naturally, at Vicaima, it’s not just about great design and trend-setting aesthetics.

As a specialist in performance products,

Vicaima EX71 door in Warm Umber

Vicaima sets the benchmark for fire certification, coupled with security and acoustic solutions.

With a growing market awareness of the needs of providing peace of mind when it comes to fire safety, specifiers gain confidence from a supplier like Vicaima, which achieved 54 minutes during recent MHCLG testing of its 30-minute door assemblies. This, coupled with Secure By Design approval and FSC environmental certification, makes Vicaima the obvious choice for demanding locations.

Download a copy of the 2020 Interior Door Selector today by visiting the Vicaima website.

8 www.vicaima.com

* vicaima@vicaima.com ( 01793

532333

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49

Doors, Windows & Facades

North East firms join forces to develop pioneering framed mesh system

Two manufacturers from the North East have joined forces to create an innovative new product which can protect buildings and update their look, through its pioneering design and simple installation.

BTS Facades and Fabrications, in Newton Aycliffe, and The Expanded Metal Company, in Hartlepool, have collaborated on a joint project that sees the launch of a new expanded mesh

frame system for architectural decoration – the first of its kind in the UK. Both companies create products which complement each other. BTS Facades

and Fabrications manufactures facade and rainscreen systems under its Vantage brand, while The Expanded Metal Company produces a wide range of expanded metal meshes for building cladding and for use in the creation of architectural features.

The Expanded Metal Company recognised a gap in the market for the installation of its expanded metal mesh material but could not source a fixing system in the UK – only in Europe – which is where BTS came in.

The finished product is part of the Vantage EM range, which is a protective mesh bracket and rail system affixed to buildings to create a pleasing aesthetic. With framed and nonframed versions available, the completed look is entirely the creation of the client’s imagination.

Displaying its striking visual effect, the Vantage EM F (Framed) range can be used in a variety of architectural facade applications, including shrouding areas such as fire escapes, mezzanines and balconies.The Vantage EM SA (Site Assembled) non-framed range has wider commercial applications, such as car parks and open structures.

8 www.btsfabrications.co.uk

* enquiries@btsfabrications.co.uk ( 01388

816883

Kalwall leads the way in retrofit design Kalwall translucent cladding, exclusively available in the UK and Ireland from Structura UK, has helped transform a former marble processing plant into an amazing space for the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, USA. Designed by Cope Associates, the new Facilities Services Complex has totally revitalised and refreshed the original 1908 building and the use of Kalwall has helped the project’s LEED Silver Certification.The project has proved so successful it was named the Collegiate Citation winner for historic preservation in American School and University’s annual Educational Interiors Showcase Award.

The interior of this 8500m2 building is now bathed with diffused daylight through the Kalwall panels fitted into the original clerestory encircling the central hall.The Kalwall keeps the interior free from glare and hotspots and the stark contrasts of light and shade.

It also specifically helps the computer users by keeping direct sunlight and glare off their screens making it more restful and reducing eye fatigue.

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Furthermore, Kalwall’s insulation properties mean U-values of up to 0.28W/m2K can be achieved.This is as energy-efficient as a normal cavity wall and four times better than insulated glass units.Therefore, there is less of a demand for artificial heating and cooling, while the translucence reduces the need for artificial lighting.

Kalwall is a popular choice for retrofit projects. The strong and lightweight panels are factory prefabricated to the exact project requirements. They are easily retrofitted into existing spaces and can often use the existing substrate saving both time and money on removal and new fabrication.

8 www.structura-uk.com * mail@structura.co.uk ( 01233

501504

Doors, Windows & Facades Growth for window and door foam sealants in 2020 despite uncertainty

TORMAX grassed up!

ISO-Chemie – one of the leading suppliers of window and door foam sealing tapes – states there will be growth in 2020 despite uncertainty around Brexit and the economic plans of the new Government. Andy Swift, Sales and Operations Manager, UK & ROI for ISO-Chemie, expects to see little impact on the products his company currently supplies to domestic house-builders and commercial property developers. Andy explains: “Regardless of any Brexit outcome or new Government, domestic construction will continue, particularly in the new-build sector, where there is demand to tackle the chronic national housing shortage. The only risk could be to businesses that we supply being able to survive. In addition, more house-building to higher air and thermal standards must be top of the agenda in the coming year. This has to be the rule rather than an option. It’s an important message that we will continue to push throughout 2020.”

Creating a sophisticated entrance solution to 22 Tudor Street – a highly innovative office development in Blackfriars – TORMAX has installed a three-wing, full-glass revolving door with automatic swing pass door to one side, for hands-free access.The environmentally sustainable option of a manual revolving glass door was chosen, ensuring good access at all times whilst efficiently reducing heat-loss from the stunning reception and waiting area.The automatic swing pass door is powered by the technologically advanced TORMAX iMotion 1301 operator. Featuring a powerful synchronous motor, the iMotion 1301 delivers an exceptional lifespan thanks to its unique design that negates any of the abrading parts that generally cause friction wear. Simon Roberts, Managing Director for TORMAX, says:“It is definitely the first time one of our revolving doors has been installed into a living, plant-filled ceiling!”

8 www.iso-chemie.eu

8 www.tormax.co.uk

a.swift@iso-chemie.co.uk *

* sales@tormax.co.uk

( 07837 337220

( 01932 238040

Latest Schöck BBA Certification Latest Schöck BBA Certificationraises raisesthe the bar. bar.

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Thermal break technology youyou cancan trust.

No need needto tocompromise compromise performance, quality or service.

Schöck products No onon performance, quality or service.

Schöck products meet full fullcompliance compliancewith with relevant building regulations, are approved meet relevant UK UK building regulations, are approved by and classified as fire resistance classclass REI 120. by the theBBA, BBA,LABC LABCregistered registered and classified as fire resistance REI 120.

Ltd | Staniford House | 4 Wedgwood Road | Bicester | Oxfordshire||OX26 OX26 4UL 4UL | | Tel: Tel: 0845 SchöckSchöck Ltd | Staniford House | 4 Wedgwood Road | Bicester | Oxfordshire 0845241 2413390 3390| |www.schoeck.co.uk www.schoeck.co.uk

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51

Building Elements

Hauraton high capacity channel system drains extensive car park at Skypark, Exeter The Skypark Business Park is located just North of Exeter International Airport, Devon and East of the M5 off Junction 29.

The Park is a Joint Venture Partnership between St.Moden, the UK’s leading regeneration specialist and Devon County Council.

When complete, the development will cover 130,200m2 and comprise office, industrial and manufacturing premises.

Ancillary retail development and a hotel are also planned as part of the scheme.

Set in landscaped grounds, it includes numerous car parks requiring effective surface water drainage.

In this phased development, three sizes of the Hauraton RECYFIX MONOTEC high capacity surface drainage system have so far been installed in the extensive

asphalt car parks: 145m of MONOTEC 100/230mm, 136m of 100/280mm and 45m of 100/380mm. Each channel grating has a width and internal dimension of 100mm, while the latter measurement refers to the overall height of the channel model. The 326m of channel supplied provided a total hydraulic capacity of just over 7717 litres.

The MONOTEC 1m-long channel component is of a sturdy monolithic design where the HEELSAFE grating, and the tongue and groove linking system, are integral to the channel moulding. The channels have a loading category of up to Class D400, and the whole unit is made of tough, virtually unbreakable polypropylene

Voice alarm system BIM objects announced by UK manufacturer

(PP). This is formulated to be very resistant to daily temperature fluctuations and the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum.

Hauraton is proud to say that all of its surface water drainage systems comply with European Standards (hENs) and carry the CE mark.

8 www.hauraton.co.uk

* ts-uk@hauraton.com ( 01582

501380

Switch on and start welding: equip yourself with the right machines

Baldwin Boxall has announced the availability of BIM objects for its VIGIL3 and VIGIL2 voice alarm systems. These new files add to the company’s readily available library of BIM Objects. BIM (Building Information Modelling) increases efficiency, reduces costs and saves time for building and infrastructure projects.

There are many benefits to this type of approach for the construction industry and because of this, companies worldwide are increasingly adopting it. The company’s BIM Object files are now downloadable both from its own website and also via the NBS National BIM Library, without charge. Baldwin Boxall is a renowned, well-respected UK designer and manufacturer of voice alarm and emergency voice communication systems. It has a wide-ranging project portfolio and customer survey responses to be proud of. The company strives to always understand the needs of the industry and its customers as well as end-users.

Leister’s new thermoplastic membrane welders are designed to be so easy to operate that both novices and professionals can produce a perfect weld seam with little introduction or practice.

The TWINNY T5 and T7 are digitally controlled with easy-to-operate displays and intuitive user controls.The TWINNY T7 comes equipped with the Leister Quality System (LQS), GPS and Wi-Fi, allowing all welding parameters to be easily stored, shared and recalled, making it possible to carry out flawless and repeatable welds from the start.

Simply download the myLeister app to your smartphone or tablet, add your TWINNY T7 and away you go. If you want to weld thick or thin geomembranes, from 0.5-2.5mm or 20-100 mils, easily and safely, the versatile TWINNY T5 or TWINNY T7 will be your go-to automatic welders.They have been practically designed to deal with rough or uneven terrain, with extra-large travel casters that provide more ground clearance and reduce stress for these types of welding situations.

8 www.baldwinboxall.co.uk

8 www.welwyntoolgroup.com

mail@baldwinboxall.co.uk *

* info@welwyntoolgroup.com

( 01892 664422

( 0800 856 0057

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Building Elements NASC launches 2020 Yearbook

* enquiries@nasc.org.uk

( 0207 822 7400

8 www.nasc.org.uk

Wrekin’s 10-year guarantee on manhole covers and gully grates Engineered for a long life and assured performance, the Unite series of manhole covers and gully tops from Wrekin Products now comes with a 10-year guarantee – the first time a manufacturer has demonstrated such confidence in this type of product.The leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of products for the civil engineering industry is so certain of the range’s durability – which has been in service on highways around the UK for more than 11 years with zero failures on 250,000 installations – that it is now providing any compliant Unite product installations with added reassurance of their performance. * sales@wrekinproducts.com

( 01543 440440

8 www.wrekinproducts.com

Tee-off in great company The Golf Classic is delighted to announce entrance is open for the 2020 Golf Classic.

Now in its 28th year, the prestigious Golf Classic tournament remains a favourite calendar event attracting players from across mainland UK. As the only national golfing tournament exclusively for those working in the construction industry, it not only offers great golf but also is equally valued for the important networking and the new business opportunities it affords and the friendships forged. Entry costs just £46 per two-ball team and must arrive by the end of February with tee-off in March. Full terms and conditions and how to enter is now online.

8 www.thegolfclassic.co.uk * info@thegolfclassic.co.uk ( 01892 752300

UK MANUFACTURERS OF STREET FURNITURE

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The NASC has launched its 2020 Yearbook – showcasing more confederation news and updates than ever before.The yearbook features a round-up of NASC standing committee outputs, more than 30 pages of NASC Awards submissions and a comprehensive listing of full contracting NASC members.

Robin James, NASC Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to launch the NASC Yearbook, which is this year more keenly targeted at key decision makers in the construction supply chain, with editorial focused on raising awareness and understanding of what the NASC does, examples of the expertise and innovation shown by our members and why all this matters to the wider construction industry.”

2/14/2017 9:36:48 AM

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53

Building Elements

How Bobtrade CEO Shneor Crombie is transforming the future of the building supplies market Bobtrade is the new online building supplies marketplace, currently taking the construction industry by storm.

Headed by CEO Shneor Crombie, Bobtrade is revolutionising the sector by connecting builders and merchants across the UK to deliver a more efficient way of buying and selling building materials.

It offers builders a powerful, yet simple procurement platform, where they can order all building supplies online with one click and have it delivered to their site the next day. It also provides better control and full visibility of their projects, budget and clients.

Supporting independent businesses is a big part of what Bobtrade stands for. Shneor explains: “By working with independent builders and merchants, we can optimise the market and give them more opportunities and more power when

they buy and sell through Bobtrade.”

Shneor admits there have been huge challenges: “No one thought that construction could evolve and digitise. I took Bobtrade to many investors and they all said, ‘Yes, it’s a huge market and you have a very interesting idea, but the construction industry won’t change!’ But guess what?

It’s changing rapidly, and I am proud that Bobtrade is leading the front of the building supplies procurements.

“The next steps for Bobtrade is to transform the construction industry in the UK and overseas. We will continue working hard to build our product so that we can provide a reliable service to more and more builders to help them build future projects easier, faster and more efficiently.”

8 www.bobtrade.com

* support@bobtrade.com ( 0203

900 1221

McAvoy awarded £5.5m contract for new School Art, Design and Technology Centre in Peterborough

The McAvoy Group – one of the UK’s leading off-site specialists – has been awarded a £5.5m contract for the off-site construction of a new threestorey Art, Design and Technology Centre at The Deepings School near Peterborough. Due to be handed over in summer 2020, the entire building will be constructed off site at The McAvoy Group’s production centre.This solution will radically reduce disruption to staff and children during construction.The new centre will provide an exemplar educational environment and will feature multi-functional learning spaces for food technology; constructional textiles; ICT, and craft, design and technology as well as general classrooms. * info@mcavoygroup.com

( 0288 774 0372

8 www.mcavoygroup.com/education

Deanestor awarded £4m fit-out contract for Circle Square in Manchester Deanestor – one of the UK’s leading contract furniture specialists – has been awarded its largest contract to date in the private residential sector. The £4.3m project for John Sisk & Son is for the manufacture and fit-out of kitchens and furniture for one of the biggest private rental schemes in Manchester. The £247m project forms part of Circle Square, a £750m mixed-use development on the former BBC site in the heart of the city. Deanestor will manufacture and install 683 kitchens and around 2000 fitted wardrobes, finished in contemporary cashmere with a sleek metal edge handle, for the premium one-, two- and three- bedroom modern apartments. * enquiries@deanestor.com

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( 01623 420041

8 www.deanestor.co.uk

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Offsite Solutions acquires steel fabrication business Offsite Solutions, one of the UK’s leading bathroom pod manufacturers, has acquired Taylor and Kilduff, a steel fabrication business, in a deal which represents an exciting new phase for both companies.

Taylor and Kilduff has supplied steel base frames to Offsite Solutions for more than 15 years. It now fabricates around 10,000 units a year for all types of Offsite Solutions’ steel-framed bathroom pods. By bringing the manufacturing in-house, Offsite Solutions will benefit from the increased skillset and expertise in steel fabrication, and complete security of supply, which will help to meet its ambitious growth strategy.

8 www.offsitesolutions.com * info@offsitesolutions.com ( 01278 780807

Doors, Windows & Balustrades

Discover Discover Nordic Copper Nordic Copper for Architecture for Architecture Copper: Nordic Blue Living 1, Project: Royal Academy of Music, London Architects: Ian Ritchie Architects, Photo: Adam Scott

Copper: Nordic Blue Living 1, Project: Royal Academy of Music, London Architects: Ian Ritchie Architects, Photo: Adam Scott

Architectural Copper Surfaces and Alloys Copper is a constantly evolving, natural and durable material with an indefinite design-life. It is fully recyclable, safe to use, non-combustible and requires no maintenance. Nordic Copper is an impressive portfolio of surfaces and alloys for architecture, including Nordic Brown pre-oxidised copper. The Nordic Blue, Nordic Green and Nordic Turquoise pre-patinated ranges share properties and colours based on the same brochantite mineralogy found in natural patinas. Alongside Architectural Copper Surfaces and Alloys traditional Bronze and Nordic Brassand alloys, the innovative Nordic retains its rich golden colour over time.safe Nordic Copper offers limitlessand possibilities Copper is aNordic constantly evolving, natural durable material with an Royal indefinite design-life.

It is fully recyclable, to use, non-combustible requires for no innovative contemporary architectural and interior design.

Discover Nordic Copper now. maintenance. Nordic Copper is an impressive portfolio of surfaces and alloys for architecture, including Nordic Brown pre-oxidised copper. The Nordic Blue, Nordic Green and Nordic Turquoise pre-patinated ranges share properties and colours based on the same brochantite mineralogy found in natural patinas. Alongside traditional Nordic Bronze and Nordic Brass alloys, the innovative Nordic Royal retains its rich golden colour over time. Nordic Copper offers limitless possibilities for innovative contemporary architectural and interior design. Discover Nordic Copper now.

NordicCopper.com g.bell@aurubis.com

NordicCopper.com g.bell@aurubis.com

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55

Knauf AMF

Year at a Glance

Heradesign macro was installed on the walls around the impressive six-lane swimming pool. Thermatex Aquatec which, due to its technologically advanced composition, resists humidity up to 100% RH, formed the ceiling system in the adjoining changing, showering and circulation areas.

Heradesign completes ambitious £22m expansion at Leeds Arts University Heradesign rafts and baffles were specified throughout the main entrance, library and group spaces of this impressive new five-storey 63,500ft2 development, to minimise noise disturbance. Paul King of DLA Design Group said: “We chose Heradesign for its acoustic performance. We also liked its natural, raw wood-wool texture which is refined without being clinical or flat. It’s a striking and versatile material.”

Great acoustics at Kew Gardens Heradesign panels were specified for the ceilings of the new Pavilion Bar & Grill to absorb sound and minimise disturbance in the open-plan eating area and kitchen. Heradesign’s natural raw wood-wool texture and colour provided a complementary contrast to the bold black steel finish, rational grid and use of glass that has taken its influence from Kew’s Japanese Gateway Garden and Great Pagoda.

Fine acoustics help to deliver world-class school Heradesign and Thermatex make a big splash at £31m sports centre Optimum sound control and humidity resistance were design imperatives for the £31m Strathclyde Sports Centre so, naturally, Heradesign and Thermatex Aquatec were specified for the project.

Renowned for its excellent sound absorption properties, Heradesign Superfine was specified by the architects in nine classrooms and two halls in this new £10.6m Aldershot primary school. Thanks to the technologically-advanced mineral wool core, Heradesign demonstrates exceptional sound absorption which makes it suitable for a variety of environments, from schools and leisure buildings through to offices and hospitals.

8 www.knaufamf.com

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*

The Post Building: Heradesign specified at iconic 1960s site Finding a material for the ceilings that would complement the exposed services and an industrial design aesthetic, whilst fulfilling modern acoustic requirements, was a major challenge for this project.

Heradesign, with its acoustic credentials and raw wood-wool texture, ticked all the boxes. Specified in Grey, Heradesign provided a strong visual contrast to the exposed structural elements.

info@knaufamf.com

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(

0191 518 8600

Reynaers

Reynaers Aluminium announces two new directors Reynaers Aluminium has further strengthened its sales and marketing team with the addition of two senior figures. New Marketing Director Tina Hughan brings over 20 years of diverse marketing experience to the role.

In her new role,Tina oversees all Reynaers’ UK marketing activity, including strategy, product management and communications.

New Sales Director Paul Reid brings 15 years’ experience in the building materials industry, including senior roles at Celotex and Knauf Insulation. Most recently, he headed up his own sales, management and business development consultancy, following four years as Group Sales Director at Era Total Security. In his new role, Paul is responsible for further growing Reynaers’ UK market share, and supporting the company in continuing to meet the diverse needs of its customer base.

Reynaers facilitates delivery of a world-first in design at Axis Towers Axis Towers is the first facility in the world where two towers turn around their own axis, but stand on the same foundation, separated by multiple expansion joints. The Reynaers Aluminium systems were chosen to be

part of the Axis Towers project because of their reliability (there was a request to test 4500 Pa), ergonomics and their aesthetics complementing the overall appearance of the building.

Opening sashes of large sizes were used, alongside doors that were more than 3.5m in height and greater than 2m in width.

Constructions of non-standard height and width were also applied, including the unique implementation of the CP 155LS slide system built into the CW 50 system.

Brand-new RIBAaccredited CPD for architects Reynaers is delighted to offer a brand-new RIBA-accredited CPD course aimed at architects and other construction industry professionals.The course, entitled ‘Accessible Solutions for Aluminium Windows and Doors’, is suitable for those looking to learn more about aluminium solutions that meet the latest accessibility requirements for both domestic and commercial designs. Accessibility is an essential consideration for today’s architects, and the new CPD has been developed to equip architects with requisite knowledge to incorporate the concept into their designs.

Devised and led by Simon Cray, Consultant Project Manager, the 45-minute seminar will provide delegates with a comprehensive guide to the changes to Approved Document M.

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Year at a Glance

Upgrades made to Reynaers’ market-leading Hi-Finity range Reynaers is announcing a series of options for its Hi-Finity range of patio doors, including a manual lock and a double-wheel carriage.

They are structurally glazed and include an ergonomically designed handle and a concealed locking system. Reynaers has now introduced the manual lock system, as an addition to the popular automatic option as part of the Hi-Finity range.The manual lock means that an electrician is not required on site during installation, giving the installer and the homeowner greater flexibility. Another key feature of Hi-Finity is the doors’ impressive size and weight, which can reach a maximum height of 3.5m, a sliding panel weight of 750kg and a fixed pane weight of 1200kg.

Reynaers helps achieve patientcentred design The AZ Sint Maarten hospital was a decade-long project aiming to incorporate three separate hospital campuses into one building. Working closely with the project design team, Reynaers helped tailor a brise soleil envelope for solar protection and provided glass surfaces that

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guarantee the highest level of thermal insulation and natural sunlight. A multitude of glass surfaces were used to provide patients with continuous visual contact with the world outside.

Reynaers’ CS 77-HI windows were specified, as they offer the highest performance and thermal insulation. Outside, a waving brise soleil envelope was designed as a second skin for the building, offering solar protection for patients and personnel and introducing a playful, delicate element to the building.

Contemporary Norfolk home commands attention This superb private residence utilises products from leading aluminium systems company Reynaers at home (RAH).

The RAH products have been installed across the expansive four-storey design of stacked modular structures to enhance the striking facade. Reynaers Hi-Finity sliding doors have been used to blur the boundaries between interior and exterior, the glazed panels which are made possible by the system’s ability to carry up to 500kg of glass. The Reynaers CS 86-HI system has been installed in areas of the home where a hinged opening is required. It offers a highly insulated and robust flush system, which meets the highest requirements of safety, including burglar resistance level 2 as well as providing thermal insulation and stability.

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Closomat

Year at a Glance

Housing with care: think outside the box to design in cost and health benefits The use of assistive technology in housing is receiving additional relevance with the publication of new research and strategies.

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ccording to Housing LIN, housing developers and providers can deliver enhanced benefits for residents by constructing more housing with care-type properties*.

Toilet assistive technology manufacturer, Closomat, is urging that helpful fixtures are utilised to simultaneously deliver that independent living with care and reduce demand on healthcare services.

Robin Tuffley, Closomat Marketing Manager, explains: “Provision of equipment such as toilet lifters and/or wash and dry (smart) toilets, reduces reliance on care intervention, enabling people to undertake intimate

tasks with little or no help. It improves hygiene and, thus, health.

It reduces risk of falls. All are factors that would otherwise require healthcare intervention.

“Such equipment also mirrors the definition of housing with care:The combination of ‘independent living, a home with security of tenure, along with care services arranged according to need…housing with modern developments to cater to the needs and individual wishes of people’. The Housing LIN study quantifies that for each person living in housing with care, the financial benefit to the NHS was approximately £2000 per person per annum, in reduced GP visits, hospital

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admissions, etc.That saving is further amplified when the cost of care intervention versus the cost of assistive technology is factored in**. It all combines to ease the strain on our already stretched health and social care services, whilst improving a person’s independence, health and wellbeing.”

Closomat wash and dry toilets feature integrated douching and drying triggered by user preference. When the user remains seated and triggers the flush mechanism, the Closomat flushes and simultaneously washes the user’s bottom, followed by warm air-drying. The toilet eliminates the need to wipe

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clean, and all its associated considerations of dexterity, balance, hand: body contact, potential urinal or faecal crosscontamination of hands, body or clothing or skin irritation caused by abrasive toilet tissue or residual dampness from wet wipes.

Closomat’s Aerolet toilet lifter is the WC equivalent of a riser recliner chair. At the push of a button, it replicates the natural motion of sitting down and standing up, supporting and balancing the user whilst gently, automatically lowering and raising them over the WC. Closomat is already one of the main providers for accessible toilet provision in housing environments.The expertise within the company represents the combined wealth of knowledge amassed from almost 60 years of helping providers to meet the needs of disabled people by optimising their dignity and independence in the bathroom, at home and away.

References: * Housing LIN Identifying the health care system benefits of housing with care https://www.closomat.co.uk/ resources/cost-of-care.html **

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