FC&A April 2022 by Red Hut Media Ltd

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EDITORIAL Rebecca Kemp rebecca@redhutmedia.com Hannah Woodger hannah@redhutmedia.com P R I N T & D I G I TA L A DV E R T I S I N G Sam Ball sam@redhutmedia.com Jim Moore jim@redhutmedia.com PRINT DESIGN MANAGER Jack Witcomb jack@redhutmedia.com D I G I TA L D E S I G N M A N AG E R Matt Morse matt@redhutmedia.com ACCOUNTS/CREDIT CONTROL Rachel Pike accounts@redhutmedia.com SALES SUPPORT & S TAT I S T I C S Klare Ball klare@redhutmedia.com PUBLISHER Sam Ball sam@redhutmedia.com

There are colossal regeneration plans currently in place throughout the UK to transform existing dilapidated and out-of-date towns and cities into spaces that thrive and bring communities together. Whether it’s flourishing green spaces, brand-new architecturally-stunning hospitality and entertainment venues, or fresh, mixed-use buildings, some areas of the nation are beginning to become entirely unrecognisable, and for the better. As a Kent resident, I’ve seen this first hand. Once run-down ghost towns with an industrial heritage, particularly riverside and coastal areas, such as Dover, Chatham and Margate; for example, have all received tremendous facelifts. Meanwhile, in other districts that fall under the Garden of England, the Government is investing millions into further modernisation updates. In this month’s issue, FC&A features two inspirational Kent-based projects by Hollaway Studios that flank my home residence. Both have obtained extraordinary regeneration designs that have brought the areas in line with the aesthetic, functional and ecofriendly needs of 21st-century living. The first is an inspirational carbon-neutral global HQ and factory for one of the UK’s largest bicycle manufacturers, Brompton. Located in Ashford (where the practice’s preceding projects, Curious Brewery and Elwick Place, proudly stand), the structure will be situated within 100 acres of unused wetlands, 60 acres of which will be transformed by Ashford Borough Council into a rewilded public nature reserve and community cycle path with sustainability at its heart. Turn to page 06 to learn more about this project’s future. Elsewhere, on page 14, we uncover Hollaway Studios’ most recent completed project, just 15 miles away in the up-and-coming, coastal area of Folkestone. Here, in a series of world firsts, we tour the first-ever purpose-built, multi-storey skatepark, part of a significant ongoing programme to regenerate the seaside town. The aweinspiring landmark building features three skateparks, a climbing wall (the tallest in the south east of England) and a boxing ring. Lastly, on behalf of the team at FC&A, our thoughts go out to the innocent people that have been impacted by the needless act of war that is currently destroying lives.

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ON THE COVER: Hol a wa y St u d i o h a s d e si g ned t h e worl d ’s f i rst pu r pose- b u i l t , m u l t i storey ska te park i n o F l ke stone, U K .

SEE PAGE 14.

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APRIL CONTENTS

NEWS

VOICE OF THE INDUS TRY:

LEGAL & BUS INE SS:

James Cook, Head of Planning Law at Blacks Solicitors, discusses the legislative and planning policy background and how recent changes are going to aœect development in the comingyears.

In this article, Fraser Johns, Finance Director at Beard Construction, demonstrates how the company’s robust results show the beneßts of an ethical approach to business.

FEATURES

FLOOR S , WA LLS & CE ILINGS :

OFFSI TE CO NSTRUCTIO N:

D OORS, WINDOWS & BA LUSTRA D E S :

RCI:

T ECHNICA L FO CUS:

BU ILD FO CUS: HO USING & I N F RAS TRU C TU RE :

Andrew Sadler, Sales Director – Architectural at CTD Architectural Tiles, discusses the latest trends available in the tile market to make a real style statement through a feature wall or oor installation.

S imon Griths from S ika UK uses his MMC knowledge and experience to predict what lies ahead for the sector. He also makes a case for greater collaboration between the building supply chain to help develop the oœsite solutions allow the industry to build more eciently and sustainably long into the future.

Here, Richard Kowalski, Technical Manager at the door division of Stairways, explores the pros and cons of doorsets and traditionally-hung doors for your next project.

John Mellor, S enior Product Manager from Glidevale Protect, discusses the beneßts of taking a fabric- ßrst approa explains why collaboration and compliance go hand in hand.

With reinforced concrete construction, minimising linear thermal bridges at the wall connection to the oo has been a perennial problem for the building industry. However, Schöck has introduced a dedicated new solution – the Sconnex type W. Here, FC&A looks at the system in action.

In this article, Christian Hale, Managing Director of Hale, discusses the need to manage and monitor the Information Release Schedule as a real-time working document to improve accuracy and reduce the risk of delays on site.

PORTFOLIOS

C LINIQUE SA INT JE A N DE DI E U H OS P I TA LI TY GRE E N H OU S E , FORM E A RCHITECTUR E + URBA N I S M E :

F5 1 , HOL LAWAY STUDIO:

Forme Architecture + Urbanisme has delivered an atypical project – the conversion of a horticultural greenhouse into a hospitality room, located in the private garden of the breast cancer clinic Clinique Saint Jean de Dieu, within a conservation area in Paris.

Hollaway Studio has designed the world’s first purpose-built, multi-storey skatepark in Folkestone, UK, as part of a major ongoing programme to regenerate the seaside town.

Protection without structural weakening Protection is required where cavity insulation terminates partway up a gable. A conventional approach results in the masonry triangle bearing on a DPC slip plane. Leeward wind suction can cause failure across the gable, see -

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-57253967 Consider the advantages of the Type CD that does not weaken the outer leaf. Email enquiries@cavitytrays.co.uk and request our guide delivered to your door 01935 474769

enquiries@cavitytrays.co.uk

www.cavitytrays.co.uk

Yeovil • Somerset • England • UK

CAVITY TRAYS specialism • experience • service

FC_A APRIL

INDUSTRY UPDATES

NE WS I N B R I E F: PICK EVERARD ESTABLISHES NEW SHEFFIELD BASE

Pick Everard has expanded its UK-wide capability with the opening of a new office in Sheffield. The latest office – Pick Everard’s second in Yorkshire – further strengthens the firm’s commitment to its clients, its resources in the region and to pushing strategic growth nationally. Located at the Advanced Manufacturing Park, the new office sees Pick Everard’s national property and construction expertise sitting alongside business leaders from other industries, including Rolls-Royce and McLaren. Partner, Andy Almond, says: “Sheffield is strategically well-placed to serve our clients and reinforces our dedication to delivering the highest quality of services throughout the UK, making it the perfect location for our new regional office.”

KEEPMOAT HOMES AWARDED SOCIAL VALUE MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATE

INDUSTRY UPDATES FC&A ROUNDS UP THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS AND UPDATES. ©Hollaway Studio

ARBC ONEUTRAHQALOB G AND CTOA F RYTHOF EFUTUREORF BROMPTON Hollaway Studio has designed a pioneering global HQ and factory in Ashford, Kent, for Brompton, one of the UK’s largest bicycle manufacturers. HOLLAWAY STUDIO

i m i n g to o p e n i n 2 0 ,7 the sta e-of the-art b u i l d i n g w i l b e s i t u a te d

©Hollaway Studio

w i t h i n 1 0 a c re s o f u n s e d w e t l a n d s , 6 0 a c re s o f w h i c h w i l b e t r a n s fo r m e d by As h fo rd Bo ro u g h Co u n c i l i n to a Keepmoat Homes has been re w i l d e p u b l i c n a t u re re s r v e recognised for its ambitious programme of systems and and com unity cy le path processes to maximise social with su tainabil ty at its heart. value delivery. The business T h e b u i l d i n g i s c i rc l e d b y a is the ßrst private-market p u b l i c l y - a c e s i b l e c y l e w a y t h a t we ave s i n a n d o u t o f housebuilder to achieve a Level One Social Value t h e b u i l d i n g , p rov i d i n g b o t h Management Certißcate ex p a n s i ve v i ews o f t h e s i te a n d m u l t i s e n s o r y ex p e r i e n c e s from Social Value UK. The o f t h e f a c t o r y p ro c e s e s a l o n g certißcate acknowledges the commitment it has made t h e ro u t e . Th e j o u r n e y e n d s a t to implement systems and t h e ro f, w h e r a ‘ B ro m p t o n processes that are consistent Mu s e u m ’, re c re a t i o n a l a re a s a n d a s h a re d c a n t e n fo r b o t h Ch a l e n g i t h e t ra d i t o n a l with the Social Value Principles. These systems w o r ke r s a n d v i s i t o r s a l i ke c a n p e rc p t i o n o f m a n u f a c t u r i n g , Ho l aw y h a s d e s i g n e d t h e and processes have helped b e fo u n d . f a c t o r y t o wo r k i n h a r m o n y the homebuilder measure, A t r u e 2 1 s t- c e n u r y w i t h , a n d b e co m e p a r t of, manage and maximise its Bournvil e, the factory wil m e gr t h e p u b l i c a n d p r i va te i t s n at u ra l s u r o n d i g s . social value in the areas it d o m a i n s o f t h e i n d u s t r y t h or u g Su s t a i n b i l t y w i l b e at t h e serves. The Social Value h e a r t of t h e c a r b o n - e u t ra l Management Certißcate p e r m i t n g t h e p u b l i c to v i ew fa c i l t,y w h i c w i l d raw h e at is accredited on behalf of not only how Bromptn bieks aer manuf ct erd but to evral f ro m t h e g ro u n d , u t i l s e Social Value International by a n d e d u c a t e h ow t h e i n d u s t r y n a t u r a l l i g h t a n d a i r f l ow s a n d Social Value UK, the national wo r k s – a r a i t y i n s u c h s e t i n g s h a r n e s t h e p owe r o f t h e s i t e ’ s network for social impact and w i n d a n d s u n e x p o s u re t o social value. and something tha wil posit n c o n t r i b u t e t o e n rg y d e m a n d s . it ßrmlywithin the community. FC_A APRIL

Th e b u i l d n g ’s fo t p r i nt a n d t h e i m p a c t h a s b e n ke p t t o a m i n m u by h o u s i n g e v n t s p a c e s , a m u s e m , c a n te a n d orf ter ac . The factory wil be b u i l t to l a s t , w i t h c o n s t r u c i o n m e t h o d s ex a m i n d , e m b o d i e c a r b o n ex p l o r d a n d m a t e r i l s er s p o n i b l y s o u cr e d to e n s u r t h e s i te c a n e n a b l e f u t er a d p t i o n a n d b e er s i l e n t to t h e c h a n g i c l i m a te .

www.hollawaystudio.co.uk

INDUSTRY UPDATES

©Hollaway Studio

NEWS IN BRI EF: CALA HOMES THAMES LAUNCHES FIRST URBAN WILDLIFE STRATEGY

P E RSO N E L The qatest appointments from the constru con and architectu raq indu stries:

CONSULTANCY BUILDS ON GROWING REPUTATION

Leading environmental consultancy Omnia has revealed ambitious plans to expand its team and presence in the North West region. The opening of a new office in Preston, Lancashire, supports its long-term strategic growth plans as its services to housebuilders and commercial clients across a range of sectors continue to expand. Omnia’s skills in working on the redevelopment of brownfield sites across the UK and its experience in rail infrastructure are in high demand, and the time is right to move north, says Director, Tim Mitchell. The company was set up in 2014 by Managing Director Lee McDonald and Tim in Portsmouth, Hampshire, expanding to the Midlands with the creation of a Nottingham base four years later.

MORE EXPERTISE ON DOUGALL BAILLIE ASSOCIATES TEAM

NEW DIRECTOR FOR INTERNATIONAL M&E CONSULTANCY CPW

Dougall Baillie Associates (DBA) has added another chartered engineer (CEng) to its structural engineering team following a review of Senior Engineer Nicola Hill. The fastgrowing specialist firm now has 13 people in its structural division, up from eight just six years ago, and now has a headcount of 41, operating across Scotland from its base in East Kilbride. Nicola, 29, was reviewed by the Institution of Civil Engineers in September of last year and was granted her chartered status in October. She is one of five female engineers in the company and one of only 288 out of a total of 3273 chartered engineers in Scotland. Nicola left school at 16 and gained an HNC in construction at Glasgow Metropolitan College, now the City of Glasgow College, before applying to the University of Strathclyde to take structural and architectural engineering.

Cala Homes Thames has launched its Urban Wildlife Strategy, which outlines its intention to incorporate biodiversity improvement measures into every new home in the region. Cala Homes Urban Wildlife Strategy, a first for the Cala Group devised by its Thames region, creates a design framework that establishes a biodiversity standard for every new home. The Urban Wildlife Strategy supplements the region’s objective for all sites to achieve biodiversity net gain and will be in addition to other planning requirements. Developed in collaboration with local wildlife groups, the strategy recommends simple and effective interventions, recognising that urban environments can be wildlife-rich.

WATES CONSTRUCTION RELOCATES MIDLANDS HQ TO BIRMINGHAM

CPW has announced the Wates Construction has appointment of Jim Frisby to announced the opening Directoraspartofasignißcant of a Midlands head office number of promotions in Birmingham city centre, announcedbytheßrm.Jim following significant joined CPW in 2015, operating growth in the region due in the consultancy’s Leicester to a series of project wins. oce.Hisnewrolewillsee The business, which is him maintaining the existing part of one of the UK’s strong relationships with clients, leading privately-owned team management as well construction, property as promoting the growth of services and development the business. His promotion is companies Wates Group, one of several across CPW’s will embark on a significant 1oces,with19otherteam recruitment drive as part of members rewarded for their the move. Wates moves into hard work and dedication. Jim the Colmore District, near says: “I’m incredibly proud to Snow Hill Station, bringing be starting this new role and the business closer to its helping CPW continue the great partners and project sites in work it has been doing over the centre of Birmingham. several years in diversifying In a further commitment its expertise and developing to the area, Wates will its strong, robust reputation in join the Colmore Business the industry. We truly believe Improvement District (BID) in ‘bringing buildings to life’, working group to support whichisreectedinthepositiveimprovements and services progression of the business and in the business quarter. our advice to all our clients.” 7

FC_A APRIL

INDUSTRY UPDATES

ARCHITECT IN PROF I LE au t oster is this monthfs ectu sive h proCte: $he ssociate irector and eatthcare ead at "heLetdJbased pracce !ace ott am ssociates P! Q discu sses his cu rrent porotio and shares more abou t his inspiraon together w ith adv ice for aspiring architects: !

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PAUL FOSTER IS AN ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR AT RA C E C O TTA M A SSO C I ATE S RC A

Daytime impression of the new health centre in Belper, Derbyshire

:racecott w am:com FC_A APRIL

Please tell us a bit about your career background. t u o re d m e w h e n I j o i n e d t h e p r a c t i c e a n d I studie cahrietu at the Unievrsty of I’ m exc p t i o n a l y p ro u d to n ow fo l ow i n h i s Notingham and completd ym Part 1, 2 and 3 in a fo t s e p s a s h e a l t h c a re l e a d . PSGEPTVEGXMGI.R .NSMRIHd(&EWEUYEPMßIH c a h r i e t a n d i t s’ h e r w h e r ym c e a r s’ e a r l y What has been your most notable project to date? TVSKVIWWIHßVWXFIGSQMRK5VSNIGX)MVIGXSVXLIR &KEMR MX¶WHMGYPXXSGLSSWISRIEWIZIVgTVSNIGX &WWSGMEXIFIJSVIQgGYVVIRXVSPIEW&WWSGMEXI MWRSXEFPIERHVI[EVHMRKMRMXWS[R[Eg+VSQ )MVIGXSVERHaIEPXLGEVIcIEHd(&LEWEWXVSRK the early stage of my caer, the new pathol gy e p r u t a i o n o r f h e a l t c r c a h r i et u , a n d t h i s JEGMPMXgEX LIIPH8IEGLMRKaSWTMXEPWXERHWSYX UYMGOPgFIGEQIQgWTIGMEPMWQ HIWMKRMRKXLIWI 8LMWQYPXMTLEWIHERHGSQTPI\TVSNIGXWSYKLXXS GSQTPI\IWWIRXMEPJEGMPMXMIWXLEX[MPPFIRIßXVEXMSREPMWIXLII\MWXMRKPEFSVEXSVgHMVIGXSVE QMPPMSRWSJTISTPIMWMRGVIHMFPgVI[EVHMRK involed consulta ion with over 20 staekholder KVSYTW8LIßREPHIWMKR[EWRSXSRPgLMKLPg Had you always wanted to pursue WYWXEMREFPIFYXEPWS I\MFPIXSEPPS[JSVJYXYVI a career in architecture/design? g ow r t h a n d t e c h n o l g i c a l c h a n g e s . .X[EW GSRWXVYGXMSR XLEX .[EW MRMXMEPPgHVE[R &GYVVIRXRSXEFPITVSNIGXMWERMRXIKVEXIH XS w h e n I w a s ve r y yo u n g , we h a d wo r k d o n e o n LIEPXLLYFMR’IPTIV)IVFgWLMVI 4RFILEPJSJ SYVLSQI ERH XLI FYMPHIVW GSQTPIXIPgMRWTMVIH )IVFgWLMVI(SQQYRMXgaIEPXL IVZMGIW3a m e ! As I m ove d t h ro u g h s c h o l , t h i s evo l d +SYRHEXMSR8VYWX XLMWVIHIZIPSTQIRXWGLIQIMW m o re i nto d e s i g n a n d a rc h i te c u re . Fo r m e , p a r t i c u l a r y c h a l e n g i d u e to i t s l o c a t i n w i t h n FIMRK ER EVGLMXIGX TVSZMHIW XLI FIWX SJFSXL E93*(4eSVPHaIVMXEKI MXI GSRWIVZEXMSR wo r l d s . Be i n g i nvo l e d f ro m s t a r to f i n s h , I EVIEERH+PSSH>SRI EW[IPPEWFIMRKEHNEGIRX w o r k w i t h s t a ke h o l d e r s t o d e v i s e a c o n e p t XSEPMWXIHFYMPHMRK XLEX VIWTSRHW XS XLI FVMIJERH WMXI QEREKI XLI t e c h n i c a l d e l i ve r y a n d ove r s e d e s i g n o n s i t e How do you approach your projects? EW MX IQIVKIW MR FYMPX JSVQ 8LMW GSQTPIXI GgGPI Alsyaw with an open mind and no tions.epc r ERH WIIMRK E GSQTPIXIH TVSNIGX FIMRK YWIH EW I sek ot understa the tion,aspr tsemnquir i n te d , i s s o f u l i l n g . ERHJYRGXMSREPMXgßVWXFIJSVITVITEVMRKE esponr tha esadr al thes as elw as Who has been your greatest ERgWMXIWTIGMßGGSRXI\XW.EPWSWXVMZIXSUYMGOPg MRYIRGIAERHAWSYVGIASJAMRWTMVEXMSRT elopvd tengam and epositv tionshpelar I a d m i re m a n y a rc h i t e c t s , s o i t ’ s h a rd t o [MXLEPPWXEOILSPHIVWFgIRGSYVEKMRKWXVSRK c h o s e o n e s i n g u l a r i n f l u e n c e . Fo r m e , i t ’s n o t tion,muca open dialogue and espct.r It EFSYX XLI MRHMZMHYEP FYX EFSYX XLI FYMPHMRKW QMKLXWSYRHSFZMSYWFYX[LIRXLITVSNIGXXIEQ s p a c e s a n d l a n d s c a p e s t h a t a re c re a te d . On a [SVOWGSPPEFSVEXMZIPgXS[EVHWEGSQQSRKSEP p e r s o n a l l ev l , my fo r m e r RCA c o l e a g u e a n d .ßRHgSYKIXXLIQSWXIRNSgQIRXERHVIWYPXW QIRXSV 8MQ dSFMRWSR [LS VIGIRXPg VIXMVIH cEWXPgIWXEFPMWLMRKOIgQMPIWXSRIWXMQIJVEQIWERH LEH E GSRWMHIVEFPI MRJPYIRGI 8MQ TEXMIRXPg FYHKIXWMWIWWIRXMEPJSVQEREKMRKI\TIGXEXMSRW 8

INDUSTRY UPDATES

Nighttime impression of the new health centre in Belper, Derbyshire What do you think is the greatest challenge for designing in sustainability?

more part of the mainstream conscience. Secondly, the upcoming Building Safety Bill and how this will affect future design and construction. F i nally, the constricting of fees and programmes. A ‘ r ace to the bottom’ culture is still too prevalent when negotiating design fees and really doesn’ t benefit anyone. Similarly, design programmes are becoming too squeeze d. There’s often not enough time to actually think and design.

The traditional route to qualify as an architect is long and expensive, so can

What is your favourite building and why?

scheme because it gave me an excellent grounding and overall responsibility of design, coordination, project management and contract administration duties across technologies, keep learning, ask questions, but don’t discount traditional methods for communicating ideas – sketches and models can be really useful tools.

rF om a practice perspective, the aim is sustainable growth of our health sector portfolio. The last couple of years have really highlighted the vital importance of healthcare services, so we’ll continue working with our trust partners to

apprenticeships, but there’s still a long new communities long into the future. world, practical experience is essential and more businesses, not just architectural practices, should engage with students

consultancy before starting my degree and

where we’re acting as architectural TA. A new pathology facility at St James’s Hospital in Leeds, which is part of the ambitious Building the Leeds Way programme, is about to start on site, and for the University Hospitals of Leicester, we’re

from which to approach my studies. rebuilding programme to upgrade and

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

Try to gain as much practical and site health hub in Bakewell, Derbyshire, and a new main entrance and paediatrics as project lead (with support where which will complete later this year. 9

FC_A APRIL

GLASS & GLAZING

The preservation of life often depends on delaying or preventing the spread of fire and smoke. Here, Susan Sinden, Commercial Manager of ESG Group, explains how to specify fire-resistant safety glass – still one of our best lines of defence against fire in the built environment. ESG GROUP

ince The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 came into force in October 2006, fire safety awareness has been a prominent issue in the construction industry. When specifying building materials, especially fire-resistant safety glass, it is essential to select the most appropriate product for each project. If a property is largely residential in nature, with occupants potentially being asleep when a fire starts, more time will be needed to evacuate occupants than in an office block or municipal building. Obviously, in care settings, in which residents may have mobility issues or be prone to confusion, more assistance will be needed, and, therefore, more time is required for evacuation. In custodial settings,

www.esg.glass FC_A APRIL

evacuation will also present further security challenges and require more time. In these instances, the more delay to fire that we can provide by careful specification of glass products, the better. Traditionally, fire-resistant safety glass would have been one of two main types. Classified as type ‘E’ under BS 476 Pt 22 and BS EN 1364 Pt 1 1999, the first option would have been IntegrityOnly fire-resistant safety glass, which contains flames, smoke and gases, but not heat. The second type was Integrity and FullyInsulating fire-resistant safety glass, denoted as type ‘EI’ under the same regulations. In addition to containing the fire, this second type of glass also limits the transfer of heat.

01376 520061 10

Modern fire-resistant safety glass is something of a hybrid between these two types, containing not only smoke and flames but also offering a degree of heat resistance. In contrast to older types of Integrity and Fully-Insulating fire-resistant safety glass, modern fire-resistant glass, such as ESG Pyrotech, is a highly cost-effective solution offering both properties. This is denoted as type ‘EW’ under BS regulations and is increasingly popular with specifiers, as it represents a ‘best-of-both-worlds’ option. EW glass is usually classified according to the amount of time for which it provides resistance to fire. This is usually certified as either 30 minutes’ or 60 minutes’ resistance against smoke and flames, and it is by this time classification that fire-resistant glass is usually specified. For a large number of premises, such as corporate offices and a wide range of municipal and commercial premises, 30 minutes of fire resistance will offer plenty of protection, and a glass product such as ESG Pyrotech E30 will be ideal. For care and residential settings, however, a glass providing longer resistance, such as ESG Pyrotech E60, should be specified. Using multi-layered fire-resistant glass, it is also possible to provide full insulation with up to 120 minutes of protection. If there is a specific reason why additional fire resistance might be needed, it is a good idea to consult the owner or end-user about the individual needs of the property and to ask the glass processor for advice before specifying. Fire-resistant safety glass must be assessed under strict testing in fire conditions by an independent testing facility. Following testing, it will be granted either a 30-minute or a 60-minute certification. When specifying, you should check that this testing has been carried out and the correct certification has been granted. You should also check on the certification of any frames or doors in which the glass is to be installed. CERTIFIRE approval is a good indication of a quality product. The ESG Pyrotech range has been independently tested and accredited by the independent UKAS-approved test laboratory, Exova of Warrington CERTIFIRE scheme CF628, and we would always recommend looking for an equivalent accreditation.

sales@esg.glass

RMIG City Emotion

we make ideas come to life

A stunning perforated metal facade out of the ordinary up of more than 3000 m2 of perforated sheets manufactured and supplied by RMIG. As the building is situated only a few miles from the River Mersey, the stainless steel sheets provide the perfect solution, creating a facade that is durable and resistant to the coastal environment.

The Cineworld New Mersey Retail Park is a multi-million pound complex, comprising 11 cinemas, including one with Superscreen, as well as six restaurants. Located on a major access road into Liverpool, this building looks set to become a landmark. The bold design gives a ‘sci-fi’ feel to this unusual facade that is made

FC_A APRIL

CLINIQUE SAINT JEAN DE DIEU HOSPITALITY GREENHOUSE, FORME ARCHITECTURE + URBANISME

ithin Paris’ ‘7th arrondissement conservation area’, the project is a heritage rehabilitation of a listed former horticultural greenhouse and a conversion into a hospitality room. Located within the private garden of the Clinique Saint Jean de Dieu, the greenhouse enjoys a privileged landscaped environment that is appreciated by its users. Built in the 18th century to cultivate medicinal plants, it remained in use until the end of the 20th century before gradually being abandoned. Both the lack of space within the clinic and the desire to put the building FC_A APRIL

to good use encouraged the Saint Jean building. While the envelope has been de Dieu Foundation to undertake the discreetly restored outside, the conversion project. Indeed, protected by the Plan de is more evident inside where it has been Sauvegarde et de Mise en Valeur (PSMV), fitted-out and the ground floor lowered. which controls development of the site, Inspired by the existing layout, the interior this existing vacant building provided an revolves around a peripheral bench that opportunity. In this context, the foundation accommodates the technical services and decided to convert the greenhouse into a opens up the central space for multiple hospitality room to accommodate diœerent uses. A heritage rehabilitation activities for the clinic staœ and patients. that intrinsically modifies the building The challenge was to convert the while preserving and enhancing its history building for new uses all year round, and architecture. respecting the constraints imposed by the PSMV to protect and enhance the listed www.bureauforme.fr 12

CLINIQUE SAINT JEAN DE DIEU HOSPITALITY GREENHOUSE, FORME ARCHITECTURE + URBANISME

FACT FILE:

Location: Saint Jean de Dieu Clinic, Paris’ 7th arrondissement conservation area Client: Saint Jean de Dieu Fondation Project manager: FORME Type of project: Heritage rehabilitation Programme: Hospitality room for art education, conferences, etc. Area: Existing – 100m2 Budget: €750,000 excluding tax Timing: Delivery in September 2021 Label: Wood construction and reuse of bricks Structure: Brick plinth, wooden canopy Materials: Wood, brick, glass and terrazzo Project leaders: Clément Maitre, Robinson Neuville and Emma Costantini Photographer: Giaime Meloni

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F51, HOLLAWAY STUDIO

or Hollaway Studio, F51 is an ‘adrenaline building’. From its initial ambition and conception through to the articulation of its form and architecture and ultimately its enduse, F51 is the shot of adrenalin needed by all – from those using it to the local community and the town itself. To create this, Hollaway Studio has designed an imposing concrete beacon shrouded in mesh rising out of the Folkestone Creative Quarter, acting as a focal point within both the local landscape and the community. With its three layers of high-quality skateparks, boxing gym, climbing wall and cafe space, it is a central hub for youth culture following the year that skateboarding was recognised in Tokyo as an Olympic sport and in advance of Paris 2024, just across the channel from it. F51, named after its location in the heart of Folkestone, a burgeoning seaside town in south-east Kent, has been commissioned by the Roger De Haan Charitable Trust, with Jenner as the main contractor. The trust views the project as a further means to support the local community. It has been responsible for much of the ongoing regeneration that is transforming and reviving Folkestone. F51 is a gift to Folkestone and the young. Located on the edge of one of the most deprived wards FC_A APRIL

in Kent, it will oœeryoung locals freedom and the opportunity to push both physical and mental boundaries within a safe space away from screens. In doing so, F51 aims to put young people ßrst, conveying to the youth of Folkestone that they are Working on a comparatively small important and have opportunities that contained site, Hollaway Studio has may not have been immediately apparent designed a building that grows out of the before. Membership for young locals who site, increasing in size as it rises. The vast attend schools in the area will be oœered concrete bowls of the ‘bowl floor’ skate at a heavily discounted rate, making F51 level dominate the experience of F51. accessible for all of the local community. Suspended above the ground floor, they F51 also aims to attract many locals who appear to hang mid-air, defying gravity moved away and are now returning to bring and dictating the form of the building, up their own families and continue the creating an extraordinary sensation to regeneration of Folkestone. stand beneath them from where you can view the bowls and hear the skateboards Skate design and architecture above. Using materials that convey F51’s urban setting and use, Hollaway Studio F51 is a brave building that has seen the local community and planning authority also challenges the very perception of putting their trust into Hollaway Studio the building and its scale. The curved designing a space that could bring form means that there is never an together the community and replace endpoint to the building and its nearthe existing skatepark near the harbour. windowless state removes any reference Working closely with renowned skatepark points to understand its scale. It is designer Maverick, Hollaway Studio has inside the building that its immense size created three tiers of skate parks suited to becomes clear. On moving through it, all ages and different levels of experience, the building starts to unravel itself. The allowing beginners an opportunity to start different floors are designed to manage at the top and work down to the advanced and control activities easily, and the lack level, alongside a boxing gym, climbing of flat surfaces gives an unsteadying walls and a welcoming cafe/workspace sensation – geometry playing tricks on the mind. for the community to use. 14

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F51, HOLLAWAY STUDIO

Purpose-built, multi-storey skatepark

such as this, a skater can move around the park’s curved walls, which includes The three skate areas elevated above features such as quarter pipes, pump ground level of F51 are dedicated to bumps and bowl corners, without taking diœerent ability levels, again underlining their feet off to push. how the building will be open to all. The Linking all three of the floors is the ßrst oor is a concrete bowl, where two climbing wall, something that has bowls sit side by side, one inspired by never previously existed in Folkestone one of the iconic empty swimming pools and which will be the tallest climbing from Dogtown, Southern California. In wall in the south east of England. Like 1976-77, a major drought saw swimming skateboarding, sport climbing was also pools emptied to conserve water. The recognised for the first time at the Tokyo local ‘Z-boys’ (Zephyr Competition Team of Olympics. The F51 climbing wall is one of American skateboarders) recognised how only three in the UK that is appropriate for the pool’s architecture could be adapted Olympic speedwall training. for their own skateboarding needs and seized the opportunity of using the bowl Generational regeneration shape to practice catching air on the deep Set within Folkestone’s Creative Quarter, curves and even taller sides. The images on the edge of one of the of the skaters using the drained concrete town’s most deprived wards, F51 will pools have become synonymous with the offer membership set at a notional skateboarding aesthetic. Hollaway Studio amount of £1 each month. It will serve continues this by creating an architectural as a one-stop-shop for the most feature out of it. The shape of the underside extraordinary social services. Its mission of the bowl will be clearly visible from the is to provide Folkstone’s youth with a exterior of the building and will be a centre place of their own and permission to point to the ceiling of the entrance-level take risks, wonder, have fun and actively cafe space, so it is clear what the building’s achieve results in that most natural state foremost use is for throughout. of being: a hugely happy childhood. The second floor is made of plywood With the COVID-19 pandemic having timber as a ‘Street’ park combining so detrimentally impacted on play elements of both bowl parks and opportunities, F51 opens at a pivotal street plazas, with obstacles, such as time for many of the local youth. The stairs, railings and benches, to perform aim will be to invest in this generation, increasingly elaborate tricks. The third with the objective that it will go on floor, the largest at the top floor of the to invest in the one that follows – building, is also constructed from plywood generational regeneration. timber and is set up as a ‘Flow’ park with shallow dips. In a well-designed flow park www.hollawaystudio.co.uk FC_A APRIL

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06.04.22 14:00

VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

©Unsplash

PLANNING FOR A GREENER FUTURE Increasing numbers of climate emergencies have been declared in recent years, further expanding attention upon the need to mitigate the environmental impact of development. Whilst COP26 has renewed public support for measures to curb the climate crisis, legislation and planning policies that underpin such measures have evolved since the early 2000s. BLACKS SOLICITORS

JAMES COOK J O INED BLACKS SOLICITORS AS A PARTNER IN THE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY TEAM IN 2019, AND SPECIALISES IN TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING, HIGHWAYS AND COMPULSORY PURCHASE LAW. WORKING WITH CLIENTS IN BOTH THE PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SECTORS, HE PROV I DES STRATEGIC ADV I CE IN RELATION TO MAJ O R REGENERATION 9 0 4 , 4 6 ( 0 ! " 0 ! ", 4 $, 0 4 , * A" " " 4 ! $ , 0 AND BUSINESS PARKS.

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use of land contribute to the mitigation of, and ames Cook, Head of Planning Law at Blacks Solicitors, discusses the legislative and adaptation to, climate change. planning policy background and how recent The National Planning Policy Framework changes are going to aœect development in the(NPPF) also underlines the importance of mitigating and adapting to climate change coming years. as a function of sustainable development, UK climate change targets emphasising that the planning system should The Climate Change Act 2008 initially help to shape places in ways that contribute to committed the UK to a target of an 80% radical reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by Local plans should take a proactive approach to 2050 compared to 1990 levels. However, in mitigate and adapt to climate change, including 2019, the target was amended to reduce the providing a positive strategy to increase the use UK’s greenhouse gas emissions to ‘net zero’ by and supply of renewable and low-carbon energy 2050, with interim targets set through fiveand heat. Additionally, new developments should yearly carbon budgets. As part of this wider be built in ways that both reduce vulnerability to national target, increasing numbers of local the impacts of climate change, such as ooding, authorities have declared climate emergencies, and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. rallying resources towards reducing their overall environmental impact and signalling to the Avoiding and mitigating flood risk public the severity of the situation. A 2022 report from the Environment Agency In October 2021, the Government published its ahead of COP2 6 warned that the eœects of ‘Net Zero Strategy: Build Back Greener’ ahead climate change will increase the likelihood of of COP26, to outline how the UK will achieve net ooding in some areas of the UK. The agency¶s zero by 2050. message was that adaptation to climate change is as important as mitigation. Planning and climate change In 2021, the London School of Economics (citing Planning authorities are under a statutory duty the UK Climate Change Committee’s 2019 Progress to ensure that, when taken as a whole, their local Report) highlighted that 1.4 million people in the development plan documents include policies UKarecurrentlyatriskofooding,withcurrent designed to ensure that the development and associated damages valued at £270m each year. 18

VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

©Unsplash

©Unsplash The NPPF states that inappropriate development in areas at risk of flooding should be avoided by directing development away from areas at the highest risk (whether existing or in the future). Where development is necessary for such areas, the development should be made safe for its lifetime without increasing the risk of flooding elsewhere. The NPPF, therefore, requires all plans to apply a sequential test with the aim of steering new development to areas with the lowest risk of flooding from any source. Where appropriate, planning applications should be supported by a site-specific flood risk assessment. Importantly, the NPPF states that both developments in areas at risk of flooding and major developments should incorporate sustainable drainage systems unless there is clear evidence that this would be inappropriate. Sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDs) are designed to imitate natural drainage to reduce surface water flooding and promote water harvesting. The general aim should be to discharge surface water runoff as high up in the hierarchy

©Unsplash

of options as reasonably metric is published by DEFRA practicable, with the primary and adopts a ‘habitats-based’ aim being discharged into the approach to assessing an area’s ground (infiltration). value to wildlife, depending upon In ood risk areas, the type and quality of habitat. developments may also be If a development fails to designed in a way to build achieve the biodiversity gain resilience to future ood risks. objective, then it will need For example, constructing to mitigate the shortfall. If buildings with raised oor this cannot be achieved on levels or planning for living the development site, then spaces from the ßrst oor and mitigation can be provided above can reduce disruption to physically off site via a residents and limit the amount conservation covenant or of property damaged during planning obligation (which ooding. S pace may also be left must guarantee maintenance within developments for ood for at least 30 years after the risk management infrastructure development is completed) to be maintained and enhanced. or via the purchase of ‘biodiversity credits’. Biodiversity net gain Whilst many local authorities Although biodiversity net gain already require BNG (BNG) is already a feature of through local plan policies, national and local planning the importance of BNG to policy, the recently-enacted planning will, therefore, only Environment Act 2021 will require increase with the advent of all developments to deliver a the Environment Act 2021. We BNG as a condition of planning are also likely to see more permissions granted in England and more multifaceted and onceineœect.Inshort,this innovative approaches to means that the ‘biodiversity achieving BNG through habitat value’ of a development must creation and enhancement exceed the pre-development solutions which offer a biodiversity value by 10% combined contribution towards (known as the ‘biodiversity gain BNG and other objectives of objective’). ‘Biodiversity value’ is sustainable development, calculated in accordance with including the adaptation to, a biodiversity metric published and mitigation of the effects of, by the Secretary of State. The climate change. 19

Renewable energy and energy efficiency

The Planning and Energy Act 2008 allows planning authorities in England to require a reasonable proportion of energy used in a development to come from renewable and lowcarbon sources. Increasing in-built renewable energy measures, such as solar panels, can reduce the volume of electricity from unsustainable sources used in a development and, when combined with passive measures like enhanced energy efficiency, can significantly reduce environmental impacts. In December 2021, the Government announced amendments to Building Regulations, which aim to reduce carbon emissions from new-build homes by around 30% compared to current standards, a prelude to the Future Homes and Buildings Standard, which is planned to deliver net-zero-ready homes from 2025. Promoting sustainable transport choices has long been a key aim of national and local planning policies. Developments should be located and built in ways that enable residents or users to pursue more environmentallysustainable travel choices easily. This may include the provision of accessible electric car-charging stations for new homes and workplaces (now a common requirement of conditions imposed upon planning permissions). Opportunities to promote walking, cycling and public transport use should also be identified and pursued. Investing in public transport infrastructure and cycle lanes can support a reduction in road congestion and, by extension, limit emissions from cars, thus contributing to climate change mitigation through improvements in air quality. Such improvements are also important for residents who cannot necessarily invest enough to enjoy the benefits of electric vehicles but nonetheless wish to take advantage of sustainable transport options.

www.lawblacks.com FC_A APRIL

LEGAL & BUSINESS

FRASER JOHNS IS THE F I NANCE DIRECTOR AT BEARD CONSTRUCTION. HE OV E RSEES THE F I NANCE, IT AND SERV I CES F U NCTION ACROSS ALL OF BEARD’S OF F I CES AND SITS ON THE EXECUTIV E BOARD. F R ASER PREV I OUSLY HELD A RANGE OF SENIOR F I NANCE ROLES AT DYSON, MOST RECENTLY AS HEAD OF F I NANCE AT THE

ROBUST RESULTS SHOW BENEFITS OF AN ETHICAL APPROACH TO BUSINESS

COMPANY’S CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IN MALMESBURY, OV E RSEEING AND TRANSF O RMING F I NANCIAL OPERATIONS ACROSS DYSON’S BUSINESS GLOBALLY.

The construction sector has certainly been a difficult market to navigate for all sizes of firms over the past few years, says Fraser Johns, Finance Director at Beard Construction. BEARD CONSTRUCTION

arious factors, including the pandemic, have caused materials and labour costs to rise, and this has made pricing projects incredibly challenging. At Beard, we have found having open and honest discussions with customers has been – and continues to be – an essential part of addressing the volatility of material prices. Suppliers and sub-contractors are an essential part of the projects Beard undertakes, and fostering close relationships through regular meetings, and prompt payment has been crucial in navigating the murky landscape. While Beard has avoided any serious delays to projects driven by Covid, it certainly has tested processes and procedures, which, in turn, have been strengthened through new ways of thinking. For Beard, the focus over the past few years has been on our people, ensuring safe environments for work, excellent communication and putting in place procedures to protect against potential outbreak. This people focus goes beyond employees to those who Beard work with.

returned to pre-pandemic levels. Beard’s performance was a tribute to the strong supply chain the company had developed prior to the challenges of the pandemic, and these relationships remain a key focus for the business. In particular, Beard has always treated suppliers and contractors fairly, and prompt payment is critical to ensuring the supply chain can function.

30 student rooms at the Frewin Annexe of Brasenose College in Oxford.

Eco improvements

Environmental performance for the business also improved during the year as Beard reduced carbon emissions by 9% (per £1m turnover) compared with prepandemic levels in 2019. The company is more committed than During 2021, the company completed a ever to driving down carbon emissions and total of 59 projects. Highlights included: investing further in strategies to remove The £20m redevelopment of St Hilda’s carbon from our atmosphere. Whilst we have College in Oxford takensignißcantstepstoensureourenergy A state-of-the-art training facility for is procured from renewables, the biggest Bristol City Football Club impact has been from the introduction of The Archway Project in Bath, comprising a exibleworking,whichhassignißcantly new World Heritage Centre and The Roman reducedtraveltimebetweenoces. Baths Clore Learning Centre Despite a turbulent year, Beard A six-storey student accommodation performed well in 2021. There are also block at the former Gaumont Cinema site encouraging signs for the future. Supply in Bristol chain delays are easing, and although A £5m new senior school building at ination is still rising, the constructi Crosßelds co- educational, independent day industry has returned to pre-pandemic school in Reading levels in terms of output. The redevelopment of the landmark For Beard, 2 0 2 will be a signißcant year, Quadrangle building in Cheltenham, as it marks the 130th year of the existence which includes the town’s first-ever of the company, which now has oces in rooftop restaurant. Swindon, Guildford, Oxford and Bristol. Robust business performance Beard has certainly come a long way The beneßts ofourapproach to doing Projects that commenced last year by since our Founder, Edward William Beard, business can be seen in our latest annual Beard include the restoration of the UK’s started working for his father in the results. Beard reported robust business oldest lido at Grade II* Listed Cleveland summer of 1892. However, we are still a performance with growth of 6% in 2021. Pools in Bath; renovation of the Grade II* family-run firm and are proud to maintain Full year accounts published for the year Royal West of England Academy building the values that have always been at the ending 31st December 2021 show pre-tax in Bristol; construction of a new specialist heart of our approach to business. proßts of£4.2m in linewith the previousyear.primary school for deaf children in Turnover for 2021 totalled £144m as Beard Newbury, Berkshire, and development of :beardconstru w con:co:uk FC_A APRIL

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F L O R S, W A L S & C E IL I NG S

TURE FEA WALSORSB ANDFL Y THEKYTITRE LE SND ORF

Modern classics

O ne of the key design trends of recent years is the instaqqaon of featu re w aqqs and featu re floors K and the popu qarity of these are show ing no signs of sqow ing dow n: Whether itfs for a commerciaq or residenaq projectd featu re w aqqs and floors are the ideaq w ay to create an eyeJcatching space: C T D ARC H I TEC T URAL TIL E S

ile suppliers like CTD Architectural Tiles work hard year-round to curate the most attractive and innovative products on the market, ensuring customers have access to both classic styles and the latest trends. But with so many considerations for creating a striking feature wall or floor beyond

the use of a single block colour, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article, Andrew Sadler, Sales Director – Architectural at leading tile supplier CTD Architectural Tiles, discusses the latest trends available in the tile market to make a real style statement through a feature wall or floor installation.

It’s no surprise that classic-style tiles have remained a popular design choice. With applications across all sectors, it’s the ideal way to create a subtle yet striking feature wall or floor. Taking their inspiration from the pre-Renaissance masters and handcrafted artisanal tiles from the Mediterranean, modern classics have become a go-to for designers looking to make an impact. Even the most natural shades of tile – such as those inspired by aged plaster – can create a beautiful effect, perfect for feature walls and floors. However, anyone looking to make a real style statement can benefit from new and expanded ranges that offer bolder colours and patterns but still feature the classic, handcrafted-style finish proving infinitely popular. Although these tiles are inspired by classic designs and materials, they benefit from the lead times of modern production – truly offering the best of both worlds.

Interchangeable patterns

Handcrafted-style tiles are also often used to create feature walls or feature floors thanks to the uniqueness of the individual tiles, allowing users to create a one-of-a-kind, eye-catching space. But you don’t need to use artisanal-style tiles to create a unique effect for feature walls and floors, and a vast selection of tiles have been created with the use of patterns at the forefront. Collections that feature interchangeable tiles – whether through a handcrafted appearance or colour and shape – are becoming FC_A APRIL

FLOORS, WALLS & CEILINGS

increasingly popular for use in feature walls and floors as they allow designers to truly flex their creative muscles. Many manufacturers are now taking this into consideration and creating tile ranges that feature a vast array of colours, shapes and patterns. This is a key consideration for CTD Architectural Tiles as we curate collections. Any designer wanting to create an eye-catching feature wall or floor should consider choosing tiles that can be used interchangeably – from using contrasting colours to a combination of vertical and horizontal tiles.

Matt and gloss

Matt versus gloss is the age-old question when it comes to choosing tiles, but one of the latest trends for feature walls, in particular, shows that it doesn’t need to be one or the other. Several tile collections, available through suppliers including CTD Architectural Tiles, include beautiful products which use a combination of both matt and gloss surfaces. Tiles featuring a matt background and glossy finish are proving popular among designers looking to make a real impact and are particularly sought after for commercial sector projects such as bars and restaurants. Alternatively, another way to create a striking feature wall using the interplay between matt and gloss effects is to choose a product where matt and gloss tiles are separate but work perfectly together. This is a great way for designers to get creative and install a unique feature wall that alternates between matt and gloss for a stylish end result.

Lighting the way

The interaction between light and surfaces has long been used in design, with glossy tiles in particular used heavily in the commercial sector to make spaces appear bigger and brighter. It’s also important to consider the light reflectance values of tiles, especially in the design of public spaces under the Equality Act 2010, which requires public areas to be accessible to those with complex needs. Beyond using light for practical purposes in design, it’s also a popular way to create an eye-catching feature wall or floor. Tiles that have been designed to maximise lighting are becoming increasingly in demand across all sectors, and because of this, we’re seeing more and more manufacturers producing tile collections comprising products that cleverly interact with 23

lighting to create stunning visual effects. For example, the Bow tile collection, which is available through CTD Architectural Tiles, features a relief pattern designed to interact with light in order to create shadow effects for a beautiful and unique finish – making it the ideal choice for feature walls. When it comes to designing an eyecatching space, featurewalls and oors remain a popular choice, and it’s easy to see why. Thanks to modern production methods, the possibilities are almost endless. But, with so many design options available, we recommend speaking to your chosen tile supplier for advice and recommendations for the right products to bring your vision to life. It’s also worth requesting samples of your favourite tiles to really get a look and feelforthe ßnished result.

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O F FSITE C O N S TRUC T IO N

MPROI VEDSUPYPL CHAIN OLABRAC TIWION VAAD L NCE SIOF TEONSTRUC C TION Hered Simon Griffithsd Head ofOffsite Construcon at Sika UKd uses his M C knowqedge and experience to predict what lies ahead for the sector. He also makes a case forgreatercoqqaboraon between the buiqding suppqychain K cqientsd specifiersd offsite manufacturersd main contractorsd speciaqist subJcontractors and component manufacturers K to heqp deveqop the offsite soqu ons thatwiqq aqqowthe industryto buiqd more efficientqyand sustainabqyqong into the future: SIKA UK

ffsite manufacturing is having a notable effect on construction. As well as driving efficiency, MMC helps combat the industry’s skills shortage. By providing opportunities for businesses that produce offsite solutions, there are also significant prospects for manufacturers that sell into these businesses. Offsite construction is essential to delivering projects we need today and will require in the future. We know that the Government has set some quite ambitious construction targets for 2025, including building 300,000 homes per year by that time. That’s quite some challenge. In the UK, only 6 to 10% of houses are currently being built using offsite construction, which has numerous benefits. It offers quality whilst reducing waste that would otherwise be destined for landfill.

together, but unless they truly understand what a product or system does, the design will not be optimised. Trust is also important. It’s a value we’ve institutionalised at Sika because it’s such a vital part of any business collaboration. The need for greater collaboration between architects and oœsite manufacturers in orderto eœectivelypromote the modern methods of construction (MMC) agenda is the reason Sika joined the OœsiteAlliance.We believe it¶s an eœective advocate forchange and a move towards greateradoption ofoœsite building methods in the UK. Forums, such as the OœsiteAlliance and the Modular Portable Building Association (MPBA), provide an opportunity for representatives of the building supply chain to put competitive business instincts aside and work together for a greater good; the development ofoœsite products and practices that create highquality buildings for the UK.

Eartyengagement provides basis foroffsite success

From a manufacturer, such as Sika’s, point of view, early engagement with the supply chain is key to the offsite process. Engaging with clients, specifiers and offsite manufacturers is critical to the success of any project, particularly in offsite construction. Architects, for example, can bring a design FC_A APRIL

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OF F S ITE CONSTRUCTION

The future of offsite construction?

In terms of the future, I believe oœsite construction will have a growing inuence on the design and delivery of our built environment. Several large investment companies have given sizeable ßnancial backing for modular property manufacturers, an indicator that sectors outside of the building industry are also conßdent in oœsite construction¶s advancement. In 2019, global banking ßrm Goldman S achs provided £75m of funding for modular housing ßrm, TopHat, which has supplied homes via many oœsite projects in England. One of the largest UK housing associations, Places for People, is also supporting oœsite development with a 47 2 home scheme across Sussex and Exeter. It’s being delivered by modular property builder, Ilke Homes. A lack of awareness of the beneßts of modular methods could account for its relatively low adoption on a global scale. In the UK, at least, it’s an issue the Government is looking to counter with construction frameworks such as the Department for Education framework. Announced in March 2021, the £3bn scheme is heralded as an ‘evolution’ in standardising the construction of school buildings using oœsite methods. Oœsite construction also features as part of a £4bn Ministry of Justice (MoJ) plan to create more prison places. Issued in December 2021, the Prisons Strategy White Paper states that each MoJ prison build has a pre-manufactured value (PMV) of around 70%, with great opportunity for the UK’s a proposal that future builds will robotics experts to design be ‘zero-net-carbon ready from and build the next-generation day one’. technology that will progress offsite construction with Advance of greater speed and accuracy. automation will help If offsite manufacture is to refine offsite process gain prevalence alongside Automation within the traditional building techniques prefabricated factory in the near future, then environment will almost manufacturers must play their certainly increase as offsite part by developing product manufacture increases in and system solutions that popularity. Countries such as advance its popularity. Sika, for Sweden are a number of years example, has made its highahead in this respect, with performance Sarnafil singlemany of its offsite production ply PVC roof waterproofing facilities using automation in membrane available in larger the application of bathroom rolls so it can be cut to fit to tiles, for example. It’s a suit a range of non-standard development that presents a roof sizes. This type of bulk FC_A APRIL

supply has the added benefit of reducing wastage, thereby helping to lower the overall cost of the installation. Although we can only speculate when offsite construction will become the go-to method of property construction in the UK, there can be no doubting its benefits. If the UK Government is to achieve its net-zero target by 2050, then housing developments such as the one built at Greenford Quay in west London will be integral. The 2000-home riverside scheme – the UK’s first large-scale, purposedesigned, build-to-rent development – was entirely 26

delivered using MMC. It’s estimated the development’s offsite delivery saved 26,000 tonnes of CO 2 , equivalent to taking 7030 vehicles off the road for 12 months or 3562 zero-energy homes being run for a year. This type of large-scale sustainability makes the best argument of all for greater adoption of offsite building techniques. It is the ideal solution for creating homes that excel in terms of comfort and energy performance and propagating a greener environment for future generations to enjoy.

www.sika.co.uk

The new Ultimate 2

In hindsight we wouldn’t have called it the Ultimate. Because we just made it better.

High Heat Output ‘Screed heat diffuser’ improves contact with the pipe, which has a higher heat output and faster warm up than typical low build-up castellated screed systems, as well as minimising thermal striping.

Ultimate 2 High Performance Panel

Impressively thin 18mm highcompressive strength insulation provides an excellent substrate for the 9mm thin levelling screed, giving an overall system height of just 27mm – including insulation. One panel Unique pattern minimises hand-routing and eliminates the need for separate ‘straight’ and ‘loop’ panels.

Generic Low Build Up Screeded Panel

Peel & Stick 50% faster to install with our self adhesive panel. Simply peel and stick to the subfloor and pour the levelling screed over.

Pre-Primed Pre-primed at the factory to save you time and cost.

Got a project in mind? Call 01392 36 36 05 or visit omnie.co.uk

MADE IN GREAT BRITAIN

© OMNIE Limited 2021. All information correct at time of publication. Product information and performance characteristics are subject to change without notice. Please see omnie.co.uk for the latest information or contact your local representative. OMNIE Limited, Unit 18, Apple Lane, Exeter, EX2 5GL 01392 36 36 05 customer.service@omnie.co.uk www.omnie.co.uk 27 and OMNIE® and the OMNIE logo are registered trademarks. FC_A APRIL LowBoard®, TorFloor®

DOORS, WINDOWS & BALUSTRADES

DORSETSVERSUSTRADITIHANGIOL DORSBYWHT;S A RIGHTORF YOURPROCT4 JE Whatever the scaqed sty qe or pu rpose of you r deveqopmentd doors are a v itaq featu re of any bu iqdingd important both aesthecaqqy and fu nconaqqyd and a significant consideraon du ring the constru con processd too: STAIRWAYS

ith such a range of choices, from materials to the ironmongery and the finish, the potential combinations are virtually limitless, allowing you to select doors that perfectly fit your design goals and budget. But underlying all these other considerations, there are essentially two options – the traditional hanging door or a ‘doorset’. There are pros and cons to each, so understanding the difference is crucial when deciding which is suitable for your project.

What’s the difference?

Put simply, the traditional hanging door is just the door ‘slab’, whereas the doorset is the complete package, as Richard Kowalski, Technical Manager for the door division at Stairways, explains: “With a traditionally-hung door, a developer will need to install the frame and add all the other elements separately on site. On the other hand, a doorset comprises a lining or frame that is already routed out for hinges, locks and other elements, and the door itself, which comes ready for installation, including ironmongery, such as latches, bathroom locks and hinges. FC_A APRIL

“At Stairways, we ask our clients to specify what they want ahead of time. On a front door, for instance, they may need drop-down seals, intumescent strips, locks, deadlocks and so on – all of which can be sorted for them in the factory, so the doors arrive ready to install.”

Ease of installation

When it comes to a larger development like residential flats, which could include hundreds of doors – ease of fitting matters more than ever. Richard clarifies: “We have supplied sites with upwards of 300 doorsets, which represents a lot of work for the onsite team, so the easier we can make that process, the better. With so many jobs handled in the production process by a specialist factory, it means fewer specialist skills are needed on site, which can help to reduce onsite costs and the opportunity for error. “With a doorset, you’re sourcing every component from the same supplier too, which ensures compatibility and performance – you can avoid those lastmoment panics, that nightmare moment – for instance, when you discover the doors are the wrong size for the frames; it happens! 28

“Very often, our clients will also order stairs and skirting boards from us too, which makes for the most streamlined delivery and installation processes. It also means that they can be assured of a consistent finish throughout – those small details make a big difference to the overall look.” Alongside the look ofthe ßnished door, there is also the potential for additional reliability and compliance. Richard explains further: “Because doorsets are manufactured, tested and installed as complete units, it helps to ensure ßre and security performance, as well as dependability for users. Doors are subjected to particularlystrict ßre regulations,whi doorset meets entirely.”

DOORS, WINDOWS & BALUSTRADES

TRADITIONALLY-HUNG DOORS: Pros Great if you’re replacing a door or doors – providing the new door is the samesizeandconßgurationastheold door – any variation will make it harder to hang in the existing frame Tend to be cheaper, although not accounting for the labour costs of additional work on installation.

Cons You need to build your frame, architrave and door stops for every doorset‡requiringspecißcskills and adding time to a project You need to ensure the use of the correct intumescent, hinges, locks, and frame materials are used tocomplywiththeßrecertißcation of the door leaf. Responsibility for this is down to the joinery company making the doorsets on site from these components. Recessing and machining of all ironmongery will need to be done – this can lead to poor-quality machining/cutting Additional onsite time. DOORSETS: Pros Reduced installation time A time saver for new builds or larger installation quantities No component compatibility worries with a fully-compliant doorset Consistentqualityandßnish Testedasaunitforßre,security and acoustic compliance Technical advice and assistance through the doorset company. Cons Doorsets can be heavy and harder to manoeuvre Upfront costs can be higher Pre-planning for delivery of product.

Choices and options

While some manufacturers will oœer doorsets with Despite coming as a package, doorsets a diœerent look and feel to traditionally- hung doors needn’t be ‘standard’ or ‘boring’. Many ( for instance, with diœerent hinges, where the door options are available on the market, and a is clipped on at the end), others, such as Stairways, good manufacturer will be able to work to put together doorsets in much the same way as specißc design or function requirements. traditional doors, with high-quality components and Richard adds: “Doorsets can be the same quality and ßnish, but with the advantage manufactured to a wide variety of of a modern system of installation. specißcations, including accredited Richard ßre concludes: ‚There are diœerent price points and smoke resistance, soundprooßng in the market, but, as always, it tends to be that you and security requirements. You are not get what you pay for. Doors are such a big part of any conßned to any one look or ßnish ‡ with project. They can alter the look and feel of a room and choices across diœerent materials, will be a high-use element of any development, so including diœerent woods, ßnishes and qualityand ßnish reallydo matter. It¶sworth spending glazing options. Pocket doorsets are more to get what you want and avoid a costly hassle an option too if there isn’t space for a down the line.” standard swing door system, as well as pivoting doorsets.” www.stairways.co.uk 29

FC_A APRIL

RC I

WHYABRIF CFIRSTSHOULDN;T AFTENBE RTHOUGHT

Improving airtightness and thermal performance

rom F increasing thermaq efficiency and airghtness to redu cing carbon emissions and minimising the risk of condensaond bu iqding homes that ck aqq these boxes can be a reaq baqancing act: Hered John Meqqord Senior P rodu ct Manager from G qidevaqe P rotectd discu sses the benefits of taking a fabricJfirst approach and ex pqains w hy coqqaboraon and compqiance go hand in hand. G L I DEV A L E PRO T EC T

et against a backdrop of global discussions about climate change, rising energy costs and the importance of sustainable design, and with pending changes to the Building Regulations on the horizon, this is a challenging time for the housebuilding industry. As we collectively work towards improving the quality and efficiency of new housing stock, both manufacturers and specifiers have an important role to play in ensuring that the right kind of products are available and used in the most effective way. This is the ethos behind the adoption of a fabric-first approach, with the specified materials and components that form the building envelope contributing directly to the overall performance of a home, whether this means improving energy efficiency or reducing longterm maintenance costs. By focusing on the fabric of a building, it is hoped that the design code of new homes will become less reliant on energy-intensive mechanical or electrical service systems, and the homes themselves will become more cost-effective to run and be balanced against a natural ventilation FC_A APRIL

strategy that will ensure indoor air comfort and promote positive health and wellbeing. This fabric-first approach will also form part of the Future Homes Standard, which is expected to come into effect in 2025, but it’s never too early to future-proof your project.

Hidden home comforts

Reducing heat loss from a property requires a consistent and considered approach and one that extends beyond the more obvious solutions, such as increasing the amount of insulation used or opting for low U-value tripleglazed doors and windows. Creating homes that are airtight and are free from draughts and other weak spots where heat can escape, whilst ensuring that the property can still ‘breathe’, requires specifiers to take a more holistic approach by considering all the elements of the building fabric and how they work together. This is where specialist solutions such as air and vapour control layers and breather membranes take centre stage and, although such products are often hidden from view, the benefits they offer as silent innovators are clear. 30

Reducing air leakage is key to helping buildings retain heat, and the forthcoming changes to the Part L of the Building Regulations will create new, lower U-value targets that all new homes must meet. Here, the correct specification and installation of wall construction membranes with low-emissivity reflective surfaces to provide an additional insulating benefit is vital on both warm and cold sides of the insulation. The effectiveness of a reflective membrane is dependent on the quality of the foil-faced surface, in terms of how it performs as a radiant barrier. A membrane featuring high-quality aluminium used within a still airspace can significantly reduce radiant heat transfer and ensure the cavity becomes low emissivity, a vital part of energy efficiency in buildings. By combining reflective membranes as part of a system within a timber frame panel, for example, insulation and footprint savings can be made whilst maintaining an overall low U-value for the building element. Airtightness and condensation control can be further boosted through the use of specialist air and vapour control layer membranes (AVCLs), which are installed on the warm side of the insulation to limit heat loss further. Installing a reflective wall membrane, so it faces into a still air cavity, will reflect radiant heat back inside the home, effectively blocking the infrared radiation and offering a thermal resistance to heat flow. When installing an AVCL, it’s essential to create a continuous airtight seal, paying particular attention to service

RCI

penetrations, overlaps and junctions between different elements, such as a wall and floor or a window and wall. Any gaps, however small, can become thermal bridges where heat can easily escape to the outside and cause an accumulation of condensation, which, in turn, can cause mould and mildew to form. To create a reliable and continuous seal, the use of specialist adhesive tape, such as those in the Glidevale Protect range, which have a high-tack adhesive, offers greater accuracy than traditional double-sided tapes or mastic sealant. When breaks in the building fabric are unavoidable, such as the need to install a loft hatch, for example, manufacturers such as Glidevale Protect have responded by creating specialist loft hatches which feature robust seals to reduce heat loss and ensure the continuity of the insulation at ceiling level. This gives designers the flexibility of being able to factor in essential and practical features without having to worry about heat and moisture escaping into the roof space.

Moisture management

Creating a well-sealed and thermallyefficient home is only part of the challenge. Warm air creates moisture, and without a considered plan to balance airtightness with ventilation and reduce the risk of condensation, problems will arise that can negatively impact both the health of the building fabric and the residents within. Again, the development and specification of specialist solutions often provide the answer. As well as using an air and vapour control layer for structural timber construction, it’s

essential to consider the installation of an external wall breather membrane to the cold side of the insulation too. Not only can this help prevent water from penetrating and damaging the exterior of the building during the construction, but breather membranes can significantly reduce the risk of interstitial condensation and the formation of damp patches. It is well recognised that the traditional design of structural timber building is to utilise an internal AVCL and an external breather membrane to avoid the risk of warm air combining with cold and prevent moisture condensing out of the air and meeting dew point, which will trigger the formation of condensation. When used as a system of wall membranes, the combination of an AVCL and breather membrane can have huge benefits, particularly if combining reflective technology throughout the wall construction. 31

Build tight, ventilate right

Taking a fabric-first approach relies on the early and considered specification of products that not only protect new homes from the elements as a secondary line of defence during construction but also help to create a safe, healthy and thermally-efficient interior that is free from condensation and cost-effective to heat, particularly important in light of rising energy prices. Engaging with the specialist manufacturers at the earliest opportunity also means that compliance with the new Building Regulations doesn’t have to limit the creativity of the design scheme and that this can be future-proofed. From help with product selection to added value technical support and advice and onsite consultations, supply chain collaboration can help boost the efficiency of your next build in more ways than one.

www.glidevaleprotect.com FC_A APRIL

TE C H N I C A L FO C U S

Aylesbury Square. courtesy of Vistry Partnerships

THA ERMYIAL NSULTIA NG ONCRETEWACTIONE L ON With reinforced concrete construction, minimising linear thermal bridges at the wall connection to the floor, or floor slab, has been a perennial problem for the bu iqding indu stry : H ow ev erd SchXck has introdu ced a dedicated new soqu tion K the Sconnex type W. It is a product that offers outstanding insu qation performanced combined w ith an ex ceptionaq qoadJbearing capacity : H ered F C h A qooks at the system in action.

The South Building under construction

SC H Ö C K

round 40% of all thermal regeneration in the London bridges in a building Borough of Southwark. are caused by walls and supports, which, in turn, are Extensive responsible for about 10% of regeneration required heating energy losses. Schöck The Aylesbury Estate, has applied its Isokorb expertise completed in 1977, was to reinforced concrete walls planned to house over 10,000 and support, therebyoœering anresidents, embracing concepts application-friendly and highof modernist urban planning. quality solution that contributes During the 1990s, however, to a permanently sustainable despite its ambitions, the building concept.The ßrst major estate was considered one project to incorporate the new of the most deprived areas in product is the Aylesbury Estate the country. With deteriorating FC_A APRIL

buildings and disillusioned There is a phased demolition residents, the estate needed and redevelopment programme extensive regeneration, and that will see the Aylesbury Southwark Council considered Estate transformed into one the possibility of refurbishment. ofthe most signißcant urban However, in 2005, having renewal projects in London. assessed the overall cost and beneßts, itwas decided that theAylesbury Square best option was to demolish is at the heart the existing estate and build Due for completion in 2036, the new, better-quality, mixedoverall masterplan envisages tenure homes. Various remedial 3500 spacious new homes developments have taken in a combination of terraced place since. More recently, the housing, a contemporary update regeneration has escalated. of the London mansion block 32

TECHNICAL FOCUS

THE SCONNEX TYPE W

connection to the oor, or oor The key stages during slab, has traditionally been a installation are that assembly serious source of linear thermal boxes are positioned relative bridges. The result is not just to the cast walls, and the slab serious energy loss but also the reinforcement is laid over the high risk of condensation. This boxes and wire-tied to the slab can easily lead to mould growth, reinforcement cage for stability. resulting in possible structural The thermal break body is then damage and, worse, posing a ßxed to the assemblybox, and health risk to the occupants. the concrete slab is poured and There is a sustainability strategy compacted. After the concrete in place for Aylesbury Square, slab has been set, insulation which is to “create a place that elements are positioned meets or exceeds the highest between the still-exposed quality standards for new vertical structural components. development in London”. This The wall reinforcement can is to be achieved by delivering then be introduced, and the highlyenergy-ecient buildings concrete wall poured. After as part of a London Plan the concrete wall has set, the Policy-compliant strategy using shuttering is removed, with the BREEAM Communities the unsupported wall being sustainability standard. braced before the upper frame and slabs being cast. The Sconnex is a unique result is a product installation Schöck solution offering outstanding insulation The new Sconnex type W performance, combined with thermally-insulating connection an excellent load-bearing for reinforced concrete walls capacity that transmits very is unique in its ability to help high-pressure, tensile and to meet these criteria. The shear forces in the longitudinal product minimises the thermal and transverse direction. This bridge between the exterior wall is made possible by using a insulation and the insulation pressure buffer consisting of above the oorslab, increasing ultra-high-performance, fibrethe energyeciencyofthe reinforced concrete. entire building. Thermal losses A material that achieves are signißcantlyreduced, and compressive strength levels in the surface temperature in the excess of 175 N/mm2, but with room rises considerably more outstanding exuralstrength, than the critical dew point a furtherbeneßt ofusing this temperature. Heating costs are solution is the signißcant cost lower, a pleasant room climate is reduction involved compared to created, and the linear thermal installing insulation beneath the transmittance (Psi) of the oorslab. connected reinforced concrete wall is reduced by up to 90%. www.schoeck.com

Onsite installation of Sconnex type W

The Sconnex type W in position and a series of taller buildings. library and commercial space Improved open spaces will also at ground level. The second be a signißcant feature. Pivotal block, the South Building, to the scheme is Aylesbury accommodates a health centre, Square, one of the earliest sites along with a state-of-the-art to be delivered. It consists of primary care GP medical centre two separate blocks, from four and community healthcare to 15 storeys, situated around facility. There is also an early a new public square forming years facilityon the top oor. the civic heart of the Aylesbury Estate regeneration. The North A serious source of Building will provide 122 new linear thermal bridges homes on the square, and it will The construction of the two also incorporate a community blocks is made of reinforced facility, which includes a public concrete, and the wall 33

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B U IL D F O C U S: H O U SING & INF R ASTRUC T URE

BUILD FOCUS:

HOUSING & INFRASTRUCTURE

In t h i s a r t i c l e , C h r i s t i a n H a l e , M a n a g i n g Di re c t o r o f f i n e b u i l d i n g c o n t r a c t o r, H a l e , d i s c u s e s t h e n e d t o m a n a g e a n d m o n i t o r t h e In f o r m a t i o n Re l e a s e Sc h e d u l e a s a re a l - t i m e w o r k i n g d o c u m e n t t o i m p ro v e a c u r a c y a n d re d u c e t h e r i s k o f d e l ay s o n s i t e .

©Alexandria Hall Photography, www.a-h.photography.

W H Y A RE I N F O RM A T I O N R E L E A S E SC H E D UL E S SO VI TA L I N P R E V E N TI N G D E L A YS O N S I T E 4

CHRISTIAN HALE

A s a constru ction professionaq w ho w orks coqqaborativ eqy w ith architects on a daily basis, I know them as sticklers for detail. It is both their superpower and their curse because it allows them to create unique touches that delight their clients.

I S TH E F O UN D E R O F H A L E A SP E C I A L I ST I N

C O M P L E X6 H I G H QUA L I TY C O N STRUC TI O N PROJECTS, OFFERING SERVICES AND RESULTS

HALE

THAT MEET THE EXPECTATIONS OF THE MOST DISCERNING CLIENTS. HALE WORKS

l i e n t s o f te n h ave a ve r y c l e a r v i s o n o f w h a t t h e i r d re a m h o m e s h o u l d l o k l i ke , a n d t h e y m a y h a v e w o r ke d w i t h t h e a rc h i t e c t fo r m o n t h s o r e v n l o n g e r t o e n s u re t h e s t y l e , l ayo u t a n d s p e c i f c a t i o n a r t i c u l a te s that vis on. But what a client understands b y d e t a i l i s v e r y d i f e r n t f ro m t h e c o m p l ex i n fo r m a t i o n a c o n s t r u c t i o n c o m p a n y n e d s t o p ro g re s a p ro j e c t e f i c e n t l y, a l i g n e d t o t h e p r o g r a m e . O u r d ef i n t i o n of d et a i l m e a n s h av i n g p re c i s e l y t h e r i g h t i n fo r m a t i o n i n t h e r i g h t o rd e r a t ex a c t l y t h e r i g h t t i m e . Ex p e r i e n c e , a n d a c o m i t m e n t t o a c h i e v i n g t h e v e r y b e s t o u t c o m e fo r t h e p ro j e c t a n d t h e c l i e n t , d r i v e t h e t e a m a t H a l e t o e n s u re we a re c l e a r a b o u t w h a t we n e d to k n ow a n d w h e n we n e d to k n o w i t . Th e r fo re , p a r t o f o u r ro l e i s t o FC_A APRIL

e m b e d t h e m e c h a n i s m s re q u i re d to e n a b l e t i m e ly a n d d et a i l e d i n fo r m a t i o n - s h a r i n g f ro m t h e e a r l i e s t s t a g e s o f a p ro j e c t . T h e ke y t o l fo r t h a t p ro c e s i s t h e In fo r m a t i o n Re l e a s e Sc h e d u l e , w h i c h ex i s t s t o i n fo r m t h e u p s t re a m d e l i v e r y p a r t n e r s w h a t i n fo r m a t i o n t h e co n s t r u c t i o n te a m w i l n e d at e a c h p o i n t i n t h e p ro g r a m e . It i s i n t e g r a l to a ny J CT co nt ra c t , b u t o p o r t u n i t i e s to l ev ra g e t h i s to l to a i d ef i c i e n cy a n d a c u r a c y o f p ro j e c t d e l i v e r y a re s o m e t i m e s o v e r l o ke d b y c o n t r a c t o r s , a rc h i t e c t s a n d c l i e n t s a l i ke . As a re s u l t , schedules can slip because vital i n fo r m a t i o n i s n o t a v i l a b l e a t t h e c r i t i c a l p o i n t i n t h e p ro g r a m e , o r a c u r a c y c a n s u f e r b e c a u s e t h e i n fo r m a t i o n i s n o t detailed enough.

WITH LEADING ARCHITECTS AND DESIGNERS THROUGHOUT LONDON AND THE SOUTHERN COUNTIES. CHRISTIAN OVERSEES ALL OF HALE’S OPERATIONS, CONTINUOUSLY CHECKING, QUESTIONING AND IMPROVING SO THAT EVERY DETAIL IS SET UP FOR SUCCESS.

Em b e d i n g d e t a i l a n d a c u ra c y i n d e l i ve r y

To lev e rage the full benefit of an Information Release Schedule, the contractor needs to communicate not only when information is required by but also ex a ctly what it should look like, and they must rev i ew, monitor and update the Information Release Schedule throughout the programme. 34

BUILD F O CUS: HOUSING & INF R ASTRUCTURE

©Alexandria Hall Photography, www.a-h.photography.

©Alexandria Hall Photography, www.a-h.photography. The Information Release Schedule should be managed as a core working document, which forms part of the proj e ct set-up process and the contractor’ s routine communication with the architect, both in person and through any digital methods used to manage proj e ct design and delivery. By establishing the format of information and level of detail required with the architect at the earliest stages of the proj e ct, the contractor not only improves programme management – so that milestones for information release are met – but they also avoid the nemesis of any construction proj e ct: delays. Digital systems can aid smoother and more accurate information sharing. The Request for Information tool ( R F I ) within Procore enables any areas where more detail is needed to be expedited in good time. This ensures the team track communication between delivery partners so that it’ s clear, in real-time, where the information request is up to. M onthly progress meetings provide another opportunity to review and update the Information Release Schedule. Site meetings often focus on progress and cost management as well as immediate information requirements. Still, they should also be an environment

for reviewing information required further on in the programme via the Information Release Schedule and establishing any gaps in the information available. Often, clients opt to attend these meetings, so they also provide a forum to explain the level of detail required to the client. By taking the time to explain the reasons why it is so important, and the potential impact on the programme if it is not available on time, contractors develop opportunities to work collaboratively with the client and deliver an optimised outcome with z e ro delays. F or example, the client may have decided on the wall and floor finishes for the bedroom and stipulated that there should be a power socket on either side of the bed. This seems clear enough from an occupier’ s point of view; however, to get the bedside sockets right, we need to know where the bed will be positioned, how big it will be, whether there will be bedside tables and what their dimensions will be. We also need to know whether the sockets will go above the bedside tables or below them. This detail is also required at the first-fix stage, long before any wall or floor finishes are applied, often where the client’ s focus is. It’ s not our remit to make a j u dgement call or base decisions 35

on our experience of what other clients have had; it’ s our j o b to get it exactly right for the particular client co ncerned. Asking so many questions of the client, particularly if they haven’ t even begun to think about furniture yet, may seem onerous and unnecessary at such an early stage. Still, best-guessing could leave the client with a socket inconveniently placed behind the headboard or on the wrong side of the room. When we invest time in explaining that, we not only experience a positive response from the client, but we begin to train them in thinking in a way that benefits the proj e ct.

This one simple example of the detail needed to enable efficient progress on the construction programme demonstrates the vital role of the Information Release Schedule and why it needs to be monitored and managed so closely. It is in everyone’s interests to avoid any delays or variations on a proj e ct because that’s what allows the client to move into their home on time and the delivery partners to move on to their next proj e ct with a smooth handover and a simple settling of the final account.

FC_A APRIL

PREVIEW

CLERKENWELL DESIGN WEEK

participating showrooms back in 2010 to over 115 confirmed for 2022, this year’s show is truly bigger than ever before.

Showrooms already confirmed include:

CLERKENWELL DESIGN WEEK RETURNS WITH ITS BIGGEST AND BOLDEST SHOW TO DATE CLERKENWELL DESIGN WEEK

here is much excitement around CDW 2022 and its return to the design calendar since the 2019 edition, which welcomed 34,185 attendees and over 300 exhibiting brands. 2019 included leading names like Established & Sons, which debuted works from renowned designers Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec and Konstantin Grcic. Stellar Works launched the Crawford Collection by up-and-coming Australian Designer Tom Fereday. At the same time, Thonet celebrated 100 years of Bauhaus at CDW with new interpretations of side tables by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. This year, CDW’s festival route has been extended to include Charterhouse Square, which will see Orticolario’s Delenimentum installation taking centre stage. The gigantic version of the legendary Adirondack Chair created in 1903 by the Designer Thomas Lee is a playful and photo-worthy addition to this show. Visitors can expect a show full of the latest designs, innovations and creative ideas, plus installations celebrating

the fascinating history of Clerkenwell, as well as hundreds of design-led fringe events, pop-ups, workshops, talks and showroom presentations. Once again, CDW will host a series of discussions in Spa Fields by leading designers and architects tackling topical and newsworthy issues. Across EC1, there will be nine exhibitions in both purposebuilt and historical venues, all showcasing a curated mix of leading brands and emerging talent covering furniture, lighting, textiles, surfaces, accessories and product design from around the world. New for 2022 is Covered, sponsored by RAK Ceramics, an exhibition dedicated to interior surfaces. Forming part of a new festival location in Charterhouse Square, Covered will display the best in surface design and material innovation. Also new for 2022 is Contract, where visitors can view the latest products for commercial interiors. Clerkenwell’s subterranean House of Detention, which was previously a prison in the mid-19th century, will showcase Light + Rising Stars, where a host of new and

upcoming designers will exhibit alongside leading lighting brands. Pop, the former coldstore turned nightclub, will be essential to visit hosting brand activations and immersive experiences throughout the three days of CDW.

CDW Presents

Each year, CDW Presents showcases speciallycommissioned, site-specific street spectacles across Clerkenwell. In a partnership that has spanned five years, CDW will, once again, collaborate with Scale Rule to present the NextGen Design Pavilion. This year’s design concept for the NextGen pavilion exemplifies human impact upon the earth and, in turn, humankind’s responsibility to protect and shape it for the better, a highly topical issue following COP26 in 2021.

Showrooms

Growing in synergy over the 11 editions of the festival, Clerkenwell has flourished as one of London’s creative hotspots. From CDW’s humble beginnings with less than 40

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Abstracta Alea Office Allermuir ARPER UK Bisley Boss Design Camira Fabrics Casala Ceramiche Caesar Cosentino Davison Highley Devol Kitchens Duravit Ege Carpets Flokk Formica Fredericia Furniture Frem Group Fritz Hansen Gessi Spa Grupo Forma 5 Havwoods Haworth Hitch Mylius Icons of Denmark Ideal Standard Interface Mapei Milliken Industrials Modus Moroso Orangebox Sixteen 3 Sky-Frame TOTO Europe Ultrafabrics Vescom VitrA.

Exhibitions

CDW’s exhibitions are hosted in distinctive spaces around the area linked by a route running through the centre of EC1. There are nine exhibitions, each with a different curatorial focus, ranging from cuttingedge international design to emerging talent, lighting, luxury interiors and the best British design. After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, there is great enthusiasm and excitement among creatives in the area about the new edition of CDW and the return of the pink trail.

PREVIEW

UK CONSTRUCTION WEEK ! $ F

achievements, and some of the best thought leaders and innovators construction has to offer, a mustattend event for anyone that wants to have their finger on the pulse of all things construction.” Day one will include updates on the new rules around public procurement, the regulatory regime on building safety, the forthcoming Building Safety Act, plus the new ways in which the industry works on projects as wide ranging as prisons, hospitals, road and rail infrastructure, education buildings and housing. Day two will dive into digitalisation, net zero and energy futures, and day three will focus on diversity, health and wellbeing, recruitment and retention issues. The Digital Construction Hub will deliver workshops on best practice in digital strategy, BIM, cloud computing, cybersecurity, use of big data and the whole Businesses and individuals across the architecture sector are being urged torange of ways in which new technology can £obm|_WRbvLvvbomomLt|uWL_HmyWbm|_WLomv|uLombmRv|uRHvlouW improve productivityand proßtability. The Infrastructure Hub, sponsored |_HmR rWortWHuWWrWL|WR|oLolW|oyW|_Wu|oWrtouW_o|_W by CEMEX, will showcase learning from bmRv|ublrtWlWm|vmWKW_HbouvRKWv|ruHLLWHmRH|uWLt|uHtv_bwbm _ob|KbtRv=ou|_W=|uW: projects like HS2, Thames Tideway, Royal UK CONSTRUCTION WEEK Docks London and the West Midlands Growth Engine and analyse policies K Construction Week (UKCW), one Xero, Entserv UK and Construction affecting infrastructure over the next 10 to 15 years. of the country’s largest live shows Industry Solutions. for the construction industry, is Nathan Garnett, UKCW Event Director, The Sustainability Hub will look at running in London at the ExCeL centre says: “We’re really excited to bring UK best practice in low-carbon building from 3rd to 5th May alongside co-located Construction Week to London. 2022 is and retrofit from Europe, regenerative events Concrete Expo (3rd to 4th May), the the year to focus on how we achieve the design and biomimicry, hydrogen innovation, 3D printing, waste issues Offsite Show (3rd to 5th May) and Grand systemic changes we’ve been discussing Designs Live (30th April to 8th May). for some time and to share the learning and building for disassembly. It will consist of over 40,000m 2 of from the organisations that have already The Offsite Alliance Hub will share exhibition space, more than 300 exhibitors made a strong start. We need to ensure learning from Alliance members who work alongside leading organisations, (600 including co-located shows), 10,000 there’s no corner of construction that innovative products and technologies, doesn’t know how to live its core values, industry bodies, Government, local 300 expert speakers, seven theatre implement new policies and behaviours, authorities and housing associations to stages, multiple specialist hubs and 150 and be transformed by culture change. increase the uptake and delivery of offsite hours of CPD content and activities. “There’s so much to see, with many technologies across the residential sector. Just some of the key companies taking displays, exhibitors, shows and products Free registration to UK Construction part in the event include HS2, ABC+ you won’t find anywhere else. It will Week London is now open. Find out more Warranty, Bosch, Hanson Plywood, be a chance to celebrate the sector’s by visiting the website below.

UK CONSTRUCTION WEEK LONDON TO FOCUS ON CULTURE CHANGE IN CONSTRUCTION

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PREVIEW

Eleanor Brough of Sarah Wigglesworth Architects

Joanna Simpson of Simpson Studio

Je Ahn from Studio Weave

Taking place on 13 and 14th April 2022, ARCHITECT@WORK reaches higher

he theme for the 2022 edition is Air & Architecture, which allows the talks programme to explore a range of different projects, places and experiences. Different sessions will touch upon how we breathe and what that means for our wellbeing, as well as the lungs of cities themselves. A key highlight for the talks programme will be a session on health and wellbeing that takes a look at air, space, materials and biophilia, considering how they are key to comfortable experiences that encourage better interactions within workspaces. This talk will feature Morris+Company Director Joe Morris, speaking alongside Francesca Brady of AirRated, rising star Anouska Anquetil, who runs Aterre and Rachel Edwards of Lendlease. With climate change making a bigger impression on every design project, it’s clear that the relationship between architecture and landscape can play a huge role in making the built environment more inhabitable and kinder

to the environment. The ways that we retrofit our cities to accommodate this will be discussed by Eleanor Brough of Sarah Wigglesworth Architects, Katherine Erne from HTA, Joanna Simpson of Simpson Studio and Sanaa Shaikh from Native Studio. Je Ahn from Studio Weave and Adam Scott of Freestate will focus on the everpopular draw of public space projects as good design is used to enliven places, creating a character and a focus for activity. Not only that, but we get the opportunity to reconsider what we want cities to look like, with a greater emphasis on greenery, accessibility and inclusivity. Some of the best innovations in architecture are found in the buildings and spaces that harness our love of sport and exercise, ranging from the recent Olympics to climbing centres in skyscrapers and running tracks that weave through new developments. Peter Karn of MET Studio, Guy Hollaway from Hollaway Studio and Zoe Adeline-Lindop

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of AHMM will discuss how design can promote exercise when advances in digital technologies cause us to be more sedentary. Join the presenters of Open City’s smash-hit podcast, the Londown, for a live recording of their topical show, which covers breaking stories in London’s architecture and built environment. The Londown is produced by Open City and the London Society in partnership with the Architects’ Journal. Architecture offers so many opportunities for enclosure, but why aren’t we better utilising the air space on top of buildings to create new homes and landscapes? Emily Erlam of Erlam Studio, Nile Bridgeman from Gatti Routh Rhodes and Julia Barfield of Marks Barfield will explain how designers are using sophisticated engineering and new materials to take in our surroundings like never before. The venue advises taking a lateral flow test prior to the show.

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DRAINAGE & LANDSCAPING

MODULAR CONCRETE PERMEABLE PAVING AND TREES IN SYNERGY

Irrigation and gaseous exchange

Street tree planting and retention of existing trees in developments, with provision for long-term maintenance, are now embedded in planning policy. Concrete block permeable paving (CBPP) offers an important opportunity to help satisfy these requirements simply, integrated with SuDS and contemporary urban design, as Interpave explains. INTERPAVE

he 2021 ‘National Planning Policy Framework’ (NPPF) for England lays out what local planning authorities (LPAs) will require, when setting local policies and also considering planning applications for all developments. The NPPF states that: “Planning policies and decisions should ensure that new streets are tree-lined and that opportunities are taken to incorporate trees elsewhere in developments.” This is backed up by other recent Government and local guidance such as the ‘National Model Design Code’ which says: “All schemes will be expected to follow national policy by achieving a 10% net gain in biodiversity. All new streets should include street trees.”

Maintenance requirement

However, measures need to be put in place to nurture and allow trees to mature, generally for decades, enabling them to actually deliver their real

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potential – including net-carbon storage, urban cooling through shading and evapotranspiration, biodiversity and public wellbeing. So, the NPPF also requires that “appropriate measures are in place to secure the long-term maintenance of newly-planted trees, and that existing trees are retained wherever possible”. Local planning authorities now need to incorporate long-term tree maintenance measures in their planning consents and a straightforward spatial solution, such as permeable paving, offers a holistic multifunctional solution. Urban trees and paving have traditionally been seen as in conflict. But this is not the case with concrete block permeable paving, a key sustainable drainage (SuDS) technique to reduce flood risk and make cities more liveable. CBPP offers unique opportunities to collect, attenuate and treat rainwater runoff, removing pollutants for a gradual supply of clean water irrigating green infrastructure.

Unlike conventional impermeable hard landscape materials, CBPP allows the same pattern of runoff transfer to the ground as natural vegetation, allowing water to reach tree and shrub roots, despite providing an attractive hard surface above. In addition to irrigation directly from rain, with CBPP there is scope for water storage and rainwater capture away from trees and their umbrella canopies for gradual conveyance laterally to trees – essential during the summer. In addition, CBPP enables air to reach roots and poisonous CO2 to escape from them. The favourable environment created for tree roots avoids pavement surface disruption from upward root growth and facilitates natural growth into lower levels for stability in high winds and longevity. CBPP can be used within new-build or regeneration schemes with new tree planting and also for ‘rescuing’ mature trees. It can be used in conjunction with raingardens/bioretention, tree-pits or proprietary systems avoiding air pipes, reservoirs or other structures for irrigation and gaseous exchange.

Beneficial relationship

A recent Interpave case study (available via www.paving.org.uk) explored the 20yearbeneßcialrelationshipbetweenCBPP and trees at the Martlesham Park and Ride scheme. Here, concrete block permeable pavinghasoperatedecientlywithminimal maintenance amongst extensive tree planting without root disruption or other issues.

DRAINAGE & LANDSCAPING

Innovative concrete block overlay paving provides clean water to tree-planted basins at Bridget Joyce Square, London

The benefits of CBPP for trees, while retaining accessibility, are recognised by the current Code of Practice for accessibility in the external environment, BS 8300-1:2018, which states that: “Tree grilles should be avoided. Smooth or paved permeable surfaces should be used wherever practicable.” Permeable paving can be laid level and still avoids puddles without the need for drainage gulleys. It provides a safe, firm, pot-hole-free surface for everyone – including wheelchair users and people pushing prams. Two decades of experience in the UK demonstrate the long-term performance of CBPP with minimal, if any, maintenance.

Low-intervention retrofit

Another important innovation – particularly for regeneration – is the retrofitting of CBPP as an overlay to existing, conventional road bases or other hard surfaces. These thin overlays create attractive, safe and sustainable shared surfaces. They can be particularly effective when used to supply a gradual flow of clean water horizontally into raingardens or bioretention areas with trees and other green infrastructure, via simple slot inlet/outlets, to store water for irrigation and biodiversity, as well as SuDS. Such low-intervention techniques enable transformation of the public realm in response to the raft of recent active travel, low traffic and open space initiatives.

www.paving.org.uk

This approach is exemplified in Bridget Joyce Square, London, an important regeneration project designed by Robert Bray Associates (RBA) in conjunction with McCloy Consulting for the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, which won the top prize at the 2017 Landscape Institute Awards. Here, a typical, adopted asphalt street and adjacent parking areas were transformed for community use with CBPP overlay shared surfaces and tree-planted raingarden basins – an exemplar for future urban landscapes. The basins provide water storage for SuDS to reduce overloading existing drains (in the absence of the CBPP subbase), as well as for irrigation.

Well-established green infrastructure Interpave revisited the project in August 2021, around five years after completion, and noted that trees and other green infrastructure were healthy, substantial and particularly well-established. The permeable paving is also performing well and, it is

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understood from local sources, experienced no problems during recent extreme summer storms, despite extensive flooding nearby. RBA Founder, SuDS expert and Landscape Architect, Bob Bray, commented: “All the plants have grown really well. Birches are particularly sensitive to drought and urban heat island effect but they have thrived here and the vegetation has remained green all summer. The critical thing seems to be that even small rainfall events are captured by the permeable paving in summer and with larger events concentrated in the basins.”

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D O R S & WIN D O W S

PRO F AB AC C E S S

rov i ding secure and unobtrusive access to ceiling and wall serv i ces for both residential and commercial proj e cts, the fire- rated panels are not only aesthetically pleasing and easy to install but ensure compliance with the latest Building Regulations. As part of Profab Access’ commitment to construction excellence, the access panels are independently bi- d irectionally tested and fire- rated up to 12 0 minutes to BS E N 16 3 4-1 : 2 0 00 for single- and double- d oor configurations up to 6 0 0 x 12 0 0mm. Size s up to 75 0 x 15 0 0mm are also ava ilable and are fire rated for up to 9 0 minutes. The PRIMA 1000 FR Series Access Panels are ava ilable in standard and bespoke specifications, prov i ding first- c lass performance and functionality; the panels are also smoke sealed with an intumescent and smoke seal gasket. The lightweight metal doors can be easily installed into j o intless plaster, plasterboard and partitions to prov i de concealed access to electrical and mechanical serv i ces and are etch primed to support onsite decoration. Marcus Parnham, C o mmercial D i rector at Profab Access, said: A “ s one of the industry’s leading manufacturers and the first to bi- d irectionally test its access panels and riser doors, we are committed to ensuring we prov i de construction professionals with the highest standards of compliance and performance. O u r PRIMA 1000 FR Series Access Panels have been ex p ertly designed to prov i de unriva lled certification, without compromising on v i sual appeal or functionality to meet the most demanding site requirements.” As a member of the official Made in Britain accreditation, Profab Access can delive r stock size s in the shortest lead times from its UK headquarters. Its team of engineering ex p erts can also design bespoke specifications to meet specific proj e ct requirements.

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DOORS & WINDOWS

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The Sash Window Workshop can also comply with conservation area and listed shown in making and installing our new property requirements. windows. Excellent product and stressThe Sash Window Workshop free installation. We feel very lucky to understands the importance of providing have such beautiful windows!” excellent customer service, highlighted The Sash Window Workshop has over by the fact that around half its orders 25 years’ experience manufacturing, every year come from existing customers installing and draught-proofing timber or recommendations. The Sash Window windows and doors across London and Workshop is an award-winning company southern England. The company also and is proud to be a Which? Trusted offers a supply-only service for new Trader. It is also FENSA and FSC certified. timber windows and doors nationwide. The company recommends using The Sash Window Workshop Accoya timber, which comes with a manufactures traditional timber sash 50-year anti-rot guarantee due to its windows, casement windows, bi-fold durability and stability. The Sash Window doors, French doors, front doors and single Workshop offers a wide range of glass, back doors. It provides a range of services, finishes and ironmongery options to including complete replacement, installing meet your requirements. All its materials new sashes into existing frames, secondary are chosen to give the best possible glazing and draught-prooßng.What¶s more,performance, combining minimum it manufactures all its new timber windows maintenance with maximum lifespan. and doors from its workshops in Berkshire Are you looking for timber windows to ensure that the new joinery meets the or doors for your project? To find out high standards expected. Customers are more or obtain a free quotation, contact welcome to visit for a tour of the workshops The Sash Window Workshop via the by prior appointment. below details. THE SASH WINDOW WORKSHOP

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DO O R S & W I NDO W S

TN E M L C TN EREM C A L P STEWILWS EO D N TA UC M VETEO AL G H D SHTHD A E TRE AE B eqiev ed to be the onqy pqay hou se bu iqt in G reat B ritain du ring the Second Worqd War and home to The P rogressiv e P qay ers since d the Little Theatre remains Gateshead’s only theatre to this day. C L E M E NT W I NDO W S

Photo kindly supplied by Robbie Carruthers, Chairman of the Little Theatre

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l osed during the pandemic, fundi g w a s c o m p l e t d o n a n ex t n s i o n t o t h e t h e a t r c re a t i n g a n e w re h a r s l ro m a b ove t h e a u d i t o r i u m .

New s te l w i n d ows f ro m t h e C l e m nt W 2 0 r a n g e w e r c h o s e n fo r t h i s n e w s p a c e . Th e n ew m et a l f ra m e s a re p o lye s t r p owd e r p a i n t e d i n J e t B l a c k ( m a t ) , a n d g re a t c a re w a s t a ke n c h o s i n g t h e g l a s f o r t h e t w o s t r i k n g m o d u l a r b a y s a t t h e f ro n t o f t h e b u i l d n g : Su n G u a rd Su p e r Ne u t ra l 6 2 /3 4 wa s c h o s e n fo r t h e o u t e r p a n e , o f e r i n g v e r y h i g l i g ht t ra n s m i s o n . Th e Pro g re s i ve Pl aye r s we r fo u n d e i n 1 9 2 0 . Th e t h e at r o p e n d w i t h a p e r fo m a n ce of A M i d s u m e r Ni g ht ’s Dre a m , a n d to d ay t h e Pl aye r s p ro d u ce 1 0 p l ays a ye a.r The new erh a s l or m has the same d i m e n s i o a s t h e m a i n a u d i to r u m s t a g e , a l ow i n g a s m o t h t r a n s e f f o r m e r h a s l XSA ßREPA TVSHYGXMSRJ A .XA MWA EGSYWXMGEPP]A MWSPEX a l ow i n g e r h a s l t o p o r c e d e v n d u r i n g a p e r of m a n c e a n d wa s d e s i g n e d to b e i n ek p i n g w i t h t h e l o k a n d ef l o f t h e o r i g n a l t h e a r. F i t e d w i t h m o d e r n l i g ht n a n d s o u n d s y te m , t h e er h a s l or m h a s t h e l a te s c o n e t i v y a n d n e t wo r k i n g c a p b i l t e s . .t i s h o p e d t h a t h e ref u b i s h e d L i t l e Th e at r w i l n ot o n ly b e u s e d fo r t h e Pl aye r s’ re h a r s l , v i s t i n g h i re s a n d c o m u n i t y g ro u p s b u t a l s o t o a c o m d a t e a y o u t h t h e a t r g ro u p .

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SENIOR’S ON THE RISE IN THE ON L DON RESIDENTIAL MARKET SENIOR ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS

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DOORS & WINDOWS

Modern working conditions

One of the main problems is that young people see construction through a very narrow window – many see unpleasant, poor working conditions; outdoors in the mud on a building site, getting cold and wet in the winter, and choose an air-conditioned office instead. MMC means that hours on site are drastically reduced, while offsite and modular construction can mean even less time on site, with structures built in controlled, safe settings rather than outdoors. Young people also see the industry as low paid and for people who don’t go to college, but construction is a multi-billion-pound, highly-skilled and highly-paid industry that offers opportunities for personal development with diverse careers in everything from IT and design to sales and marketing.

Modern solutions for modern minds

MMC PERFECTLY PLACED TO PROVIDE SOLUTION TO LABOUR SHORTAGE Labour and skills shortages have been an increasing problem for the construction industry for years. With the twin disrupters of Covid and Brexit, a recruitment crisis is on the cards. Nick Cowley, Managing Director of Euramax Solutions, a Modular Group Investments (MGI) company, discusses how MMC can be the catalyst for enticing new blood into the sector. EURAMAX SOLUTIONS

t is no secret that a worsening labour shortage will have a major impact on our industry if we don’t address the slide. There is no exact average age of a construction worker, but it is estimated that almost half are approaching 50 years of age. That number will be rising in the absence of new blood coming into the industry, and it won’t be long before many of them are at retirement age. The lifeblood of any industry can only be sustained by replenishing it with young people who can push boundaries and

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produce fresh ideas to help it grow. And the construction industry is no different. We now have a chance to strike; the next generation of young people – Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012 – represent the biggest generation yet, with around 1.3 billion of them expected to join the global workforce over the next 10 years. It is imperative that we attract as many of this generation into the industry as we can to safeguard its future – and modern methods of construction (MMC) provide the perfect opportunity to bridge that gap.

0330 134 0290 45

Attracted by industries that appear more progressive, dynamic and exciting, innovation and cutting-edge technology play a vital role in the modern construction industry. MMC should be the perfect fit for young people of Generation Z with skills in science, technology, engineering and maths vital in their design and build. Many MMC approaches use state-of-the-art technology, and the introduction of sophisticated technology such as virtual reality, augmented reality, imaging drones and 3D printing should make for an extremely exciting future for the more IT-literate, tech-savvy generation coming through.

Making a difference

Young people are concerned about climate change and the future of the environment, and they can play a huge role in being part of the solution through construction. The Government is committed to sustainability and building greener if the county wants to hit its carbon net-zero targets, and MMC will be key to doing that through technology, design and sustainable practices. Being part of a sustainable future should resonate with young people as they plan their futures, and a career in construction using MMC can provide that. With the Government committed to “building back better” by spending on infrastructure and picking up the shortfall of new homes that need building, MMC is the future of construction and can provide what the young people of today and tomorrow are looking for in a career. It is the best chance we have of enticing young people into our industry – and we must take advantage before it’s too late.

info@euramaxuk.com FC_A APRIL

F L O R S, W A L S & C E IL I NG S

Th e c a t e g o r i e s i n t h e Q - Aw a r d s a r e :

this award will eva luate new proj e cts incorporating innovative colour schemes and safety features this award will look at proj e cts where ex i sting infrastructure is improve d upon to comply with current legislation this award will aim to find the best entire new proj e ct, from concept to completion.

The j u dges who will decide the category winners are Paul Iddon, V i ce President of the Manchester Society of Architects and the D i rector of Agency PSI; and Steve Kean, Quantum Flooring’s Sales D i rector and a leading commercial architect. Winners of each category in the Q-Awards will get a JERXEWXMGATVM^IAERHAEAXVSTL]J8LIA A ßVWXAE[EVHWA[MPPAFIANYHKIHASR MLXLA/YRIIAERHAIRXVMIWA[MPPAFIAEGGITXIHA[MXLAMQQIHMEXIAIœIGXJ These awards will be held throughout 202 so that by the end of the year, there will be numerous winners in all GEXIKSVMIWJ8LIWIA A [MRRIVWA[MPPAFIAIRXIVIHAMRXSAXLIAßREPAVSYRHASJA judging, where an overall winner of the Q-Awards Project of the eY ar will be decided. The overall winner will receive a fabulous trip to Lake Garda in Italy for a wine tasting weekend for two. Second place will win a spa weekend away for two, and the third prize will be a driving day experience for two. If you would like to enter Quantum Flooring’s inaugural Q-Awards 202, speak to your local Quantum sales manager about your project. Alternatively, you can send across your entry photos and/or details about your project to the below email address.

QAWARDSBYTHQUA E TUM N RIWAO A L FGRDN S Quantum Flooring Solutions is delighted to announce that it is qau nching a brandJnew set of aw ards for : The QJA w ards are open to architectsd specifiersd fqooring contractors and other project qeaders: They w iqq rew ard the best projects that u tiqise Qu antu m F qooring produ cts in three categoriesd w ith the w inners ju dged by indu stry ex perts: Q U ANTUM F L O R ING

w . q u a nt u mf l o r i n g . co u k

016 627 42

i nfo @ q u a n t u mf l o r i n g . co u k

TARMAC SUPPORTS A B ND OF BUILDERS A G RDEN MAKEVE O R OR F OMA W NS WHO E DOG DETECTED HER CANCER

DORMA’S WO L OCV EMISSIONS SET NEW STANDARD OR F VE MO ABLE A W LS

TARMAC

STYLE

Tarmac has teamed up with Band of Builders, a national charity for tradespeople, to help transform the garden of a South Shields woman whose dog alerted her to ova rian cancer. The landscaping proj e ct was supported by the team from Tarmac’s cement business and saw half a doze n vo luntary tradespeople landscape Tess Robinson’s garden to make it a more peaceful and relax i ng space for her to continue her recove ry from chemotherapy. These vo lunteers – part of the Band of Builders community – offered their time and ex p ertise to ensure Tess could benefit from a newly- renova ted garden. Garry Gregory, Packed Products D i rector at Tarmac, said: “ I t’s an honour to work with Band of Builders yet again. The impact this charity has is immeasurable, not only to the industry but also to families and real indiv i duals like Tess. This will be the 2 3 rd proj e ct to date, and we hope to be invo lve d in many more to support tradespeople up and down the country.”

Responding to a growing awareness of the importance of indoor air quality, Style’s manufacturing partner, D o rma Hü p pe, is pleased to announce that its aV riflex move able wall system far exc eeded ex p ectations in a recent emissions test carried out by the independent laboratory, eco- I N S TITUT. o V latile organic compounds ( VO C s ) were analysed and eva luated, delive ring reference va lues of only 0.02 1 mg/m ³ . This is an outstanding result, give n that the recommended max i mum leve l, according to AgBB (C o mmittee for Health- related *ZEPYEXMSRA SJA ’YMPHMRKA 5VSHYGXWG I A MWA A A QKK QvJ A 8LIA VIWYPXA MWA particularly significant for architects, contractors and end- u sers choosing move able walls for sustainable buildings, as not only were the indiv i dual parts tested but also a complete aV riflex 100 move able wall with an opening height of 2 8 0 0mm. This consisted of a full-wall element, telescopic element and pass door with wheels and suspension. This created a ‘ worst- c ase scenario’, with all three elements being tested at dimensions that reflected a potential real- l ife installation, yet D o rma Hü p pe still came out with exc eptional figures.

FC_A APRIL

SURFACES & METALS

SPIRALLING NORDIC BRASS Three dramatic spiral staircases clad in Nordic Brass copper alloy announce intersecting looped pathways, helping visitors to explore intuitively a new museum in Perth, Australia. AURUBIS

he WA Museum Boola Bardip in the revisions to achieve cost-eœective layouts, The Nordic Blue, Nordic Green and Nordic Turquoise pre-patinated ranges Perth Cultural Centre was designed dimensioning and details while retaining as a joint venture by international the original design intent. Sean Carter have been developed with properties and design practices Hassell + OMA. The new said: “Everything we do is handmade. No colours based on the same brochantite museum, effectively taking up a whole CAD software was used on the project for mineralogy that can be found in natural city block, was designed as a series fabrication or installation...just pen, paper, patinas worldwide. As well as the solid patina colours, of virtual ‘stories’ that guide visitors tape measure, mathematics and, most of all, through the major galleries to experience patience. We all loved working on it.” ‘Living’ surfaces are available for each the state’s collections. The design As well as Nordic Brass, which can also with other intensities of patina flecks aims to make wandering up and down be supplied pre-weathered, copper alloys revealing some of the dark oxidised background material. A wide choice the Nordic Brass staircases, between include Nordic Bronze and the innovative restored heritage-listed buildings and Nordic Royal – an alloy of copper with of Nordic Decor mechanically-applied the new contemporary development, feel aluminium and zinc, retaining its golden surface treatments is also available. seamless to visitors. colour. The extensive Nordic Copper range A growing series of ‘copper stories’ – Fabricator and installer of the three Nordic of architectural surfaces includes Nordic building studies exemplifying the best in contemporary architecture – showcase the Brass spiralstaircases, CarterRooßng, S tandard mill ßnish¶ and Nordic Brown preworked closely with the architects and oxidised copper with lighter (Nordic Brown diversity of surfaces, forms and applications managing contractor Multiplex on design Light) or darker shades of brown. available with Nordic Copper today.

www.nordiccopper.com FC_A APRIL

01875 812144 48

g.bell@aurubis.com

WDO P RTE E TIC E L O C SH NC O VAE L BA L I THROUGTHH SB NRAEITIL AM NIRY B LANO P ow dertech C orby fs u niqu e <C oqqectionsf range of pow der coatings can be researched and dow nqoaded as B I M objects from N B S Sou rce:

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FC_A APRIL

BUILDING ELEMENTS

NEW VICAIMA WARDROBE BROCHURE TRULY INSPIRES WITH FUNCTIONALITY AND AESTHETICS Vicaima, a major European player in the design and production of vanguard solutions for interior doors, doorsets, wall panels and associated joinery solutions, has launched the latest version of its inspiring wardrobe brochure, together with tutorial assembly videos to show how easy it is to create beautiful storage solutions. VICAIMA

www.vicaima.com

n a symbiosis between functionality and aesthetics, Vicaima wardrobes feature refined, innovative, sustainable designs and multiple customisation possibilities, presenting a modern portfolio that promises to cater for the latest market trends in 2022. The three ranges of the brand, Easy, Advanced and Transform, complement each other and enable Vicaima to provide extensive solutions suited to the varied demands prescribed by the multiple sectors of activity, namely housing, hospitality and health, amongst others. True to its commitment to sustainability, all these solutions are available with FS C certißcation, an entity that promotes responsible forest management. The Easy Range is noted for its versatility, promoting a practical and functional concept, offering modulation options and specific accessories. Focusing on elegance and optimisation of the wardrobe interior, Vicaima provides solutions with opening doors and sliding doors, with the option of a mirror and wardrobe fronts, consisting of doors and frames. Sophistication and comfort are the vectors guiding the entire Advanced Range. With a wide range of contemporary coatings and ßnishes, where Naturdor and Lacdor are the highlights, these suggestions blend in perfect harmony with the interior doors. Sophistication leads the various modulation solutions, enhanced by the elegance of the details and the diœerent options of accessories that are available for the wardrobes and storage solutions within this range. Strongly committed to the professionals of this sector, Vicaima also produced two tutorial videos explaining the installation of the Easy Range wardrobes, in a sliding door version, and the Advanced, with opening doors, which will be available, in bilingual format, on the social networks and the company’s website. In response to the desire for exclusivity and customisation, the Transform Range grants the customer the possibility to explore their creativity and imagination, thereby designing genuinely unique projects. Focused on detail, these solutions are enhanced through innovative combinations of exclusive real wood veneers, sophisticated lacquers and highlycustomised patterns and textures, which imprint an individual identity to each room. This latest renewal is an expression of the quality, diœerentiation and diversity of the wardrobe solutions developed by Vicaima, and also of the company’s capacity to follow and set market trends, which are continuously accompanied by its commitment to sustainability and a circular economy. For more information, please visit Vicaima’s website. Alternatively, to request samples/literature, please get in touch via the email address below.

01793 532333

marketing@vicaima.com

FC_A APRIL

Redefining Surfaces. Redefining Projects.

Exterior Façade of Redeveloped Vantage Point Archway Tower The ultra-compact surface, Dekton® by Cosentino has been selected for use for the Vantage Point Archway Tower redevelopment project in London

Project Archway Tower Architect GRID Architects

25 Year Warranty. Find more projects, technical info and inspiration at cosentino.com

Dekton® Surface 3,000 m2 Façade Dekton Danae Natural Collection

COSENTINO UK 01256 761229 / info.uk@cosentino.com / Follow Us: F T FC_A APRIL