FC&A August 2020

FUTURE CONSTRUCTOR & ARCHITECT

ISSUE 126

AUGUST 2020

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EDITOR’S NOTE Cross Platform Media LTD

W E L C O M E

T O

Barham Court, Teston, Maidstone, Kent, ME18 5BZ Tel: 01622 232725

AUGUST 2020

FUTURE CONSTRUCTOR & ARCHITECT MAGAZINE

P R I N T & D I G I TA L A D V E R T I S I N G Sam Ball sam@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Jim Moore jim@crossplatformmedia.co.uk PRINT DESIGN MANAGER Jack Witcomb jack@crossplatformmedia.co.uk D I G I TA L D E S I G N M A N A G E R Matt Morse matt@crossplatformmedia.co.uk ACCOUNTS/CREDIT CONTROL Rachel Pike Rachel@crossplatformmedia.co.uk SALES SUPPORT & A D M I N I S T R AT O R Klare Porter klare@crossplatformmedia.co.uk PUBLISHER Sam Ball sam@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Te r m s a n d C o n d i t i o n s : Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and return addressed envelope. No responsibility will be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editor’s hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographics or artistic belongs to Cross Platform Media Ltd. The publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed in editorial material or otherwise do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher. The publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearance or non-publication of any advertisement.

Last month, more businesses opened their doors and a minute sense of normality popped up on the horizon as more travelled further afield. Although we’re becoming more optimistic with our socialising and travelling, we’re all still treading with trepidation. As a result, architects, designers and specifiers are having re-think building material specifications, layouts, spatial design and factor in social distancing. In this edition, we’ve talked to James Latham about hygienic, easy-clean surfacing materials that are suitable for future-proofing buildings while we learn to live alongside coronavirus.

Turn to page 34 to read the full article.

Additional business openings weren’t the only thing that spread enthusiasm across the nation last month. The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson’s Economy Speech to “build back better” was welcomed by many within the construction and architectural sectors; yet, there were a few concerns expressed from some industry giants. This month, we have talked to a handful of construction professionals and architect practices to uncover the consensus across the realm.

CROSS PLATFORM MEDIA

EDITOR Rebecca Kemp rebecca@crossplatformmedia.co.uk



Meanwhile, in this month’s portfolios, we travel overseas to observe how the global trend of improving our built environment has taken form in two very different projects that are connected by one fundamental commonality – wellbeing.

Firstly, we head to Lithuania to see how German practice 3deluxe has reimagined the popular ‘plaza’ with a visionary design that is a celebration of contemporary mobility. Flick to page 12 to read more.

While on page 16, we take a look at the recently revealed MAD Architects scheme for Shenzhen Bay Culture Park in China.

Here, Chinese Architect Ma Yansong has merged contemporary artistic designs with an urban landscape.

Rebecca REBECCA KEMP Editor, Future Constructor & Architect

fcamagazine fcamagazine fcamagazine FC&A Magazine

ON THE COVER: German practice 3deluxe has reimagined the popular ‘plaza’ with a visionary design that is a celebration of contemporary mobility.

SEE PAGE 12.

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FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

NEW

AUGUST CONTENTS

NEWS

06

INDU STRY U PDAT E S :

20

ON SITE WITH S YK E S:

22

LEGAL & BU SINE S S:

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This month, FC&A has asked key professionals within the architectural and construction realms to voice their views on the PM’s Economy Speech.

RIBA Architect Christopher Sykes returns this month with an exclusive article on how COVID-19 is presenting a convenient opportunity for the construction industry to adopt modern methods of construction (MMC). Here, he looks at how MMC has advanced over recent years.

In this article, Paul Howells, CEO of Accumulate Capital, asks if we should have any confidence in Boris Johnson’s claims to “build, build, build”.

VOICE OF THE I NDU S T RY: Here, Alan Dowdall – Associate at Ramboll UK – looks at the critical role that design and construction professionals must take in enabling the UK to adapt and continue living and working with coronavirus.

FEATURES

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FLOOR S, WALLS & C E I L I N G S :

28

GLASS & GLAZI N G :

30

BIM:

32

DISABILITY:

34

BU ILD FOCU S: Timber & Surfacing:

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TECHNICAL FO C U S:

Laura Light, Concept Design Team Leader at Interface, looks at how designers, architects and specifiers should be designing for distance as we begin our journey back into the office.

Joe Thornton, Engineer at Perega Clear Structures, looks at some of the solutions and new thinking which are helping to deliver a greener built environment.

Paul Hargreaves, Group BIM Manager at TÜV SÜD, looks at how BIM is transforming the construction industry and mitigating risks by addressing issues before construction begins.

Stuart Reynolds, Head of Product and Marketing at AKW, explains how house-builders and developers can provide good design for those requiring wheelchair accessible bathrooms.

James Latham’s article on specifying materials during a pandemic looks at how architects, designers and specifiers need to respond quickly to the effects of the pandemic and redesign spaces to help safeguard people from the virus.

To find out how grooved mechanical pipe joining solutions are helping developers and engineers go higher with building designs, FC&A spoke to Matthew Strohm, Director of Product Development Piping System Design at Victaulic.

PORTFOLIOS

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V-PLAZA, 3DEL U X E :

16

SHENZHEN BAY C U LT U RE PARK , MA D ARC H I T E C T S:

In Kaunas, a city in Lithuania, 3deluxe has created a visionary plaza that is a celebration of contemporary mobility. Cyclists and scooters cruise along organically curved levels, between them; oases of tranquillity, water features, cafes and restaurants.

MAD Architects has revealed its masterplan and architectural design for the Shenzhen Bay Culture Park. The ambitious cultural complex covers an approximate area of 51,000m2 and includes the creative design hall, the Shenzhen Science and Technology Museum, with an expansive public green space along the waterfront in Shenzhen, China.

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FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

INDUSTRY UPDATES

INDUSTRY UPDATES THIS MONTH, FC&A HAS ASKED KEY PROFESSIONALS WITHIN THE ARCHITECTURAL AND CONSTRUCTION REALM TO VOICE THEIR VIEWS ON THE PRIME MINISTER’S ECONOMY SPEECH.

AL AN J O N E S, RI B A P RESI D E NT:

“I welcome the recognition for ‘urgent action’ from the Prime Minister and hope the announcements are the first of many needed to address the shortcomings of the UK’s physical and social infrastructure.

However, I am extremely concerned by the proposal to enable even more commercial buildings to change to residential use without the need for a planning application. The Government’s own advisory panel referred to the homes created by this policy as ‘slums’. It is hard to reconcile the commitment to quality with expanding a policy that has delivered low-quality, unsustainable and over-crowded homes across England. I urge the Prime Minister not to waste this opportunity and to re-build a more sustainable and resilient economy, ensuring that quality and safety remain at the heart of investment.”

C L ARE B O ND , PART II ARCHITECTURAL ASSISTANT AT SARAH WIGGLESWORTH ARCHITECTS:

“‘Build back better’ – it seems the Government now only communicates with us via the rule of three. The PM’s announcement begins with the need to regenerate existing buildings and this retro-first approach initially seemed to align with his ‘clean, green recovery’. That said, the proposed changes to the planning system promote regeneration at the cost of our small businesses (likely those hit during COVID-19) and high-street, rather than through improvements to current housing stock or getting tougher on sustainability requirements for new builds. Increased funding opportunities are much needed, but why does the Home Building Fund only apply to those creating new homes? As ever, more information please Boris!”

AL AS TAI R HA M I LTON, PART NE R AT PI CK E VE RA RD :

“The Government’s £5bn funding programme is welcome news, but fast and efficient delivery will be essential to its success. Quick, simple routes to market and access to skills and capacity are vital, and frameworks will play a key part here. The so-called ‘build back better’ agenda is also important. We mustn’t forget to drive the quality agenda at the same time to ensure we are building greener and more sustainably, achieving net-zero emissions, delivering on social value and biodiversity net gains while using the latest technologies to do that. The ‘Kickstart’ scheme will create jobs and help address the industry skills gap as we look to build our future, while investment in training throughout the supply chain will help support that legacy.”

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GE RARD TOPLA SS, E X E C U T I VE CHA I RM A N OF FRA M E WORK PROVI D E R PAGA B O:

“It is in the Government’s interest to ensure that programmes plough ahead to meet previous targets and deliver on election promises to invest £250bn in the UK’s infrastructure. There were already ambitious targets prior to COVID-19, so ensuring that the path to recovery is a short one is absolutely crucial in achieving those promises, as well as delivering the necessary infrastructure projects that have come out of the pandemic, such as improving transport systems to allow for social distancing. At this time, being able to procure works quickly via a framework will help speed us along the road to recovery in construction, and we strongly believe that the quickest and most efficient way to procure is by using a framework agreement – particularly one with a designated Direct Award process.”

PAU L HUTT, D I RE CTOR AT GLA NCY NI CHOLLS A RCHI TE CTS – A S P E C IA LI ST I N THE D E SI GN OF D E M E NTI A A ND S O C I AL C A RE D E VE LOPM E NTS:

“The pandemic has shone a light on the determination and caring nature of many individuals working in the care sector, but it has also highlighted flaws in the design of traditional care homes and their inherent inflexibility to adequately respond in terms of the physical environment and care and management strategies. The Prime Minister stated that we need to ‘build back better’ and that is certainly something we agree with. We are calling on the industry to promote an expansion, or an overhaul, of the national minimum standards for care home regulations to drive forward quality design. What will be crucial to this reform; however, is sustained investment and resourcing from central Government. The Prime Minister’s statement needs to be followed by adequate funding to allow these changes to happen.”

MI C HAE L CONLON, CHA I RM A N AT C O NLON CONSTRU CTI ON:

“The Government has made a sensible step in prioritising construction as an area of investment to get the economy moving again. In the past, construction has contributed up to 10% of GDP and in terms of employment, it is powered by swathes of SMEs and family businesses who, as they return to work, will prove vital to our recovery. I thought the £1000 incentive from the Chancellor to bring employees back from furlough was a great idea and it will encourage even the smallest of businesses to welcome team members back into the fold. The plans to increase the number of apprenticeships will also ensure young people are empowered to learn new skills so they can begin contributing to the economy. We are particularly pleased to see investment in infrastructure as well as hospitals and schools; these areas have an immediate impact on the communities around them and suggest promise for the future. “

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FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

INDUSTRY UPDATES

ARC H IT EC T I N P RO F I LE This month, FC&A talks to Tean Chee Ko, Design Director of Hong Kong studio RMJM Red Studio, to find out more about his career, design ethos and upcoming projects.

RMJM RED STUDIO

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TEAN CHEE KO Design Director of Hong Kong studio RMJM Red Studio

IMAGES : 1:

The China Construction Bank

2:

Alibaba’s headquarters

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Shenzhen Bay Twin Towers

headquarters in Ningbo in Hangzhou

www.rmjm.com FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

He said that an architect was a “jack of all trades and master of none”. What he deemed to be a weakness of the discipline was for me its greatest draw.

Please tell us a bit about your career background.

I trained in Australia and worked there for six years on residential, hospitality and commercial projects throughout Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand. Shortly after becoming a registered Architect, I moved to Shanghai with Australian firm Hassell. Significantly, we won the competition for Alibaba’s headquarters in Hangzhou. I then moved to Hong Kong and joined RMJM and have been here for the last 13 years. We have been running the RMJM Red Studio for almost seven years now with a focus on mixed-use projects in mainland China.

Who has been your greatest influence and source of inspiration?

Looking back, my father’s broad interests that ranged from the natural world to the arts and sciences shaped my holistic outlook on life and influenced my choice of career and how I live and work. For a conservative personality, he has a strong liberal mindset. Against the trend of the time and setting, he let me choose my career path independently.

Being part of the architectural fraternity and its way of life has been a big part of the story.

I’ve certainly been influenced by the well-known architectural firms and their work but what is most inspiring is seeing great work produced by lesserknown studios; there are too many to mention. They have such strength of faith to put everything on the line to push forward for what they believe in.

Had you always wanted to pursue a career in architecture?

I hadn’t made up my mind about architecture as a career path until I had to make the formal decision.

I was interested in a wide range of fields including graphic design, psychology, cartography, science and engineering. Sitting somewhat on the fence between the arts and science, architecture was a compelling direction.

In my second year at university, I remember being bemused by the structural engineer professor’s opinion of architects.

What has been your most notable project to date?

It’s hard to pinpoint a single project, so I’ll grant myself three projects and justify each of them. The China Construction 8

Bank headquarters in Ningbo was a bold proposal as a Brutalist piece of sculpture in a financial district filled with glass towers; it went against the grain.

The Shenzhen Bay Twin Towers project was the first major win for the RMJM Red Studio and is about to complete construction.

Having the towers inadvertently catch my eye kilometres away as I crossed the border from Hong Kong to Shenzhen was a surreal moment. The Alibaba headquarters in Hangzhou was my first project of such scale and significance, and it opened my eyes to the disruptive potential that architects have not only to the built environment but to the individual, to a corporate entity and everything around it.

All three of these projects are now built and as with all projects they are the result of concerted team effort. The fact that some projects become realised whilst others don’t is testament to the vision and endurance of each individual involved in these projects.

How do you approach your projects?

We approach all projects from a blank page with as little preconception as possible. We spend a lot of time getting to know the site, the client and the brief. Then we engage

INDUSTRY UPDATES

2:

in discussion within the team and with stakeholders and start to imagine an appropriate response. The process may sound ordered and linear, but we’ve found that the strongest outcomes come from a more meandering path and so we let things happen more freely at the early stage. We will have dozens of schemes on the wall to ruminate over. These get refined, culled and short-listed until we have a single scheme that makes the most compelling argument. We enjoy the challenge of the competition process, but we prefer the dialogue of formulating a scheme in collaboration with the client.

When a scheme is determined, we work hard to navigate the myriad of factors and hurdles that come up during the process and focus on staying on target. We want to preserve the potency of the initial scheme and simply improve upon it, making it more polished.

What do you think is the greatest challenge for designing in sustainability?

It’s always a challenge to convince a developer that the effort and capital investment put towards sustainability is worthwhile. Whilst most would agree with the long-term benefits of such initiatives; there are many other more immediate priorities that sideline sustainability. The greatest motivator in the decision-making is market opinion and what is deemed required and accepted in the market. Factors of speed and cost-effectiveness are still the most dominant drivers – hence the adoption of sustainable initiatives has not been strong.

3:

China’s Green Building Standard, introduced in 2006, is a good system; however, it is voluntary, and there is little incentive to aim for the top three-star rating. I believe that making it mandatory for all residential and public projects over a certain size is possible, and by making it mandatory, we can bypass the slow uptake of green initiatives by the market.

What is your favourite building and why?

I’ll avoid choosing an RMJM project to remove any bias. The Federation Square

by Lab Architecture Studio in Melbourne is a truly civic project. I feel that it really represents the city’s textural and cultural richness. It’s a complex and ambitious project and is impactful to the way people interact with one another and the built environment. I could say the same of the DDP in Seoul by Zaha Hadid Architects.

A completely different aesthetic but an equally impactful project.

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

Time has always been a scarce resource for architects intent on crafting the best possible designs. Technology has paradoxically made those pressures even greater with the expectation that things can now be done faster.

For any practice, the challenge of overcoming financial and time pressures to deliver quality design is constant. “Good things take time”, but unfortunately, “time is money”. No doubt there have always been such constraints, but increased competitiveness in what is now a truly global marketplace has made the pressure seem more acute.

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What do you think is the greatest challenge for architecture students at the moment?

It’s an issue that affects not just architecture students but practitioners as well. Instant access to vast amounts of design online can become an all too convenient ‘spice rack’ to find a style to mimic. It’s a double-edged sword that has allowed us to explore so much without leaving our chairs, but the understanding of the projects tends to be superficial, even graphical. I’ve seen what I believe to be the symptom of this practice in many new buildings. They’re photogenic, but when you’re there, moving through them and taking a closer look, it’s often disappointing.

It may be hard to conjure originality in this day and age, but there should be sincerity in the process in order to create something that is authentic and relevant.

What advice would you give to newly qualified architects?

My suggestion to them would be to spend the initial years being as much of a generalist as possible. They should try to work on as many types of projects as possible, large/small, complex/simple, public/private. They could work on commercial, transport, residential, sports, hospitality, civic and educational projects.

They should position themselves to be involved across all stages of the project, from project inception to concept design through to site supervision. There is a lot to learn, so I would suggest doing this for at least 10 years.

During this time, they should be figuring out what is of particular interest and to then start consciously specialising and becoming an expert in it. It could be theatre design, aged care facilities, facade design, high-rise towers or hotel resorts. The key is to be deliberate, always to be mindful of where you are in your career at any moment in time and where you want to be.

What can we expect to see from RMJM over the next year?

RMJM’s strength is in its team’s diversity and open-minded approach to design.

Each year, the projects delivered are of a wide variety and don’t conform to a particular style. So it’s always interesting to see what all the different studios have been working on.

RMJM Red Studio’s Shenzhen Bay Twin Towers will be completed in 2020, so it will be exciting to see it put into use. We have also been working on some unique mixeduse projects; from conceptual design to detailed design – several of which are under construction and will soon start to take shape. We have also been active on smaller-scale projects which have been a good counterbalance to our larger projects, each informing and enhancing the other.

FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

COATINGS & FIXINGS

F

inding the right shade for an external or internal architectural project is a rewarding part of a designer’s work but can be time-consuming and frankly quite overwhelming with the number of shades now available.

Helping to inspire Powdertech wants to make the task easier for designers by curating together groups of colours and also by creating new unique finishes for emerging trends.

The three new collections are Stone, Rust and Terracotta, all earth-based shades reflecting the resurgence in popularity for designs based on natural materials. All the powders offer excellent metal protection, colour stability and are Qualicoat Class 1 and 2 approved.

Powdertech Terracotta

NEW POWDER COATING COLLECTIONS FROM POWDERTECH CORBY Powdertech Corby has launched three new powder coating collections, showcasing some of the most popular shades and textures in its wide repertoire.

POWDERTECH CORBY

Powdertech Rust

Powdertech Stone

Stone, rust and terracotta on metal Stone shades used on metal mean that the solid and enduring appearance of stone can be achieved without the design constraints that the weight of the natural material imposes. Bespoke shades can be created to match or complement existing materials. Real stone needs a regular hard-hitting maintenance routine to maintain its fresh clean appearance, but these powder coatings need only a rinse over with water every six months or so in normal environmental conditions.

Powders in the Rust collection offer an industrial, lived-in look with excellent metal protection (despite the rusty appearance) and no run-off staining onto surrounding material. Many new developments on brownfield sites are drawn towards honouring the history of the site by referencing its past through colour and texture.

Warm and earthy, terracotta shades will never lose their appeal, and the powders in the Terracotta collection allow designers to combine the strength and versatility of aluminium and steel with the natural charm of terracotta, adaptable to Mediterranean, Eastern, rustic, industrial and even Art Deco styles.

Imagination given free rein There really is no limit on the types of application and fabrication suitable for these finishes, excepting designers’ imaginations. Typical applications include facade cladding, solar shading, curtain wall, garden sculptures, perforated and expanded aluminium features, windows, trims, fittings, point of sale, retail display, signage; the list goes on. Any of these can be made to resemble stone, terracotta or weathered metal.

www.powdertechcorby.co.uk FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

pcl@powdertech.co.uk 10

+44 (0)1536 400890

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FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

V-PLAZA, 3DELUXE

PIONEERING CITY PLAZA PROJECT DESIGNED BY 3DELUXE In the midst of a newly designed building ensemble boasting bright facades and ultra-modern workspaces, the German architecture practice, 3deluxe, has created a visionary plaza that is a celebration of contemporary mobility. Cyclists and scooters cruise along organically curved levels, between them; oases of tranquillity, water features, cafes and restaurants.

3DELUXE

V-Plaza – urban development

All images © 3deluxe Back in 2016, 3deluxe was commissioned with the complete transformation of the central square, together with the buildings that adjoin it on its eastern side – three new builds and two renovations, along with an underground garage that extends beneath the entire square.

What was previously a largely unused space adjoined by historical buildings is now becoming a new, inviting public amenity where you can casually enjoy a coffee in your lunch break or get some work done outdoors while children play in the water, young people skate, and students relax in the sun.

This is certainly the new ‘now’ in Kaunas, a city in Lithuania which, with the help of 3deluxe, has brought to life a futureoriented architectural concept that sets new impulses and is geared towards the communicative needs of a young and dynamic generation. The history-steeped Unity Square, with its impressive buildings from different eras, has been redesigned to reflect the innovative spirit of a country considered to be a pioneer of digitisation. The extraordinary design sets off the extensive facades to bright and cheerful effect, creates modern workspaces and uses organically-shaped green spaces, curved pathways, seating levels and the latest technology to transform the space into inspiring terrain with an urban ambience.

The real challenge was to preserve cultural heritage while creating space for social transformation. And the solution was innovative architecture that caters to the needs of today’s society: bright, friendly, open and connecting.

FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

The buildings and facades Here, 3deluxe is creating an exciting ensemble featuring various architectural interpretations of the different eras that define the city. Hence, for example, the new corner building is an homage to Lithuania’s Art Deco heritage.

With its rounded and organicallyshaped glass fronts and the elongated facade, the corner 12

building is quite captivating thanks to its elegant simplicity and flowing forms. Here, the coming together of old and new building cultures is celebrated rather than concealed. Extensive glazing and unfussy design meet detailed window frontage featuring applied decoration inspired by the facades of the neighbouring historical buildings.

The central new-build block reflects the city’s Bauhaus tradition and forges a clear link to the now modernised dual ensemble that epitomises the international style of the early 1960s. The redesign of the facade picks up on the aesthetic simplicity to be found in this Baltic testimony to Mid-Century Modern, with a pronounced Cubist design vocabulary and clear lines.

V-PLAZA, 3DELUXE

SECTION 1

KEY:

01 08 02 04 03

06

05

11

09

14 12

10

13

07

13

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01: Building A: redevelopment 02: Building A1: new-build 03: Building B: redevelopment 04: Roof pavilion: new build 05: Building B1: new build 06: Building C: new build 07: Ampitheatre with temporary screen 08: Oak of unity 09: Artificial river 10: Hide-out 11: Plaza/open space for events/markets 12: Skate park 13: Access to underground parking 14: Interactive fountain

FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

V-PLAZA, 3DELUXE

An elongated roof pavilion covers both the newly built and renovated structures and thus melds different styles to create a new whole. The roof pavilion incorporates a roof terrace that stretches the entire length of the complex – a green oasis offering a magnificent view of the whole city.

The stylistic connection between all five buildings is their uniform, whiterendered facade, which enables all the buildings to merge into one radiant unit.

The redesign of the interiors likewise emphasises the idea of connection, since all the buildings are linked internally. Extensive lobbies, atria and open workspaces permit straightforward communication as well as concentrated and creative work. Meanwhile, shops, cafes and restaurants inject further life into this modern, agile world of work and the lively, urban leisure society.

The square: a new quality of life across 22,000m 3deluxe initially developed two design levels that structure the entire surface as a grid made up of visible lines on the ground. One is linear and forms the historical context, in which the existing axes of vision and movement are taken into account. The other level is designed to be organic and fluid, reflecting the natural flows of movement of passersby. This structuring gives rise not only to pathways but also to natural islands, which are enlivened in different ways: a green lawn for sunbathing, a skate park, a programmed fountain complex or a modern event venue. The natural result is an organic, landscape-like arrangement comprising dynamic thoroughfares, staggered seating and steps, and gently sloping green spaces and water features that connect the different height levels of the square in a seemingly obvious way.

The materials used form a welcoming interplay of light granite, wood and elaborately modelled elements made of white moulded concrete.

The choice of plants for the green spaces is based on the local flora. Native pine FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

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KØGE NORD STATION, COBE AND DISSING+WEITLING V-PLAZA, ARCHITECTURE 3DELUXE

and birch along with insectfriendly grasses and shrubs form the basis of the greening concept. An artificial stream meanders through the organic concrete landscape with wooden islands, inviting visitors to linger and play, while an interactive fountain installation enlivens the large, flat open space in the square, which can also be used for events, festivals and markets.

The man who is funding the transformation of the square is a passionate skateboarder and wanted to offer skate enthusiasts a new home in the city; hence large parts of the square are laid out to be skater-friendly too. Specialists in skate park construction were; therefore, brought on board to help realise the challenging free forms developed by 3deluxe.

Another addition, lying opposite the new corner building, is a modern amphitheatre, and the frontage facing it can be outfitted with a giant LED screen for public viewings when required.

On this basis, additional mobile elements will be used to bring further life to the square: a pavilion that can be planted in various ways as an urban gardening project, changing installations such as kiosks, food trucks and mobile seating, and a temporary event stage.

All in all, it’s a square to bring people together, to create new opportunities, and to improve the quality of life for people in Kaunas.

Commenting on the opening, Dieter Brell, Creative Director at 3deluxe, said: “Since cars will gradually disappear from our cities, it’s high time we redefined the area that has hitherto been called the street and sidewalk.

“This invaluable area needs to become a peoplefriendly, urban space for environmentally sound mobility, leisure time, relaxation and communication – all in one.

“For us, the V-Plaza in Lithuania is a pilot project along the way to this development, one that been imbued with a new, positive vibrancy by the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.”

www.3deluxe.de 15

FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

SHENZHEN BAY CULTURE PARK, MAD ARCHITECTS

MAD ARCHITECTS REVEALS SHENZHEN BAY CULTURE PARK PLANS MAD Architects, led by Ma Yansong, has revealed its masterplan and architectural design for the Shenzhen Bay Culture Park. The ambitious cultural complex covers an approximate area of 51,000m2, with a total building area of 1 ​​ 82,000m2, and includes the creative design hall, the Shenzhen Science and Technology Museum, with an expansive public green space along the waterfront in Shenzhen, China. It is expected to be completed in 2023.

MAD ARCHITECTS

S

et between the young, vibrant city of Shenzhen, and the quiet oceanfront, Shenzhen Bay Culture Park juxtaposes two transcendental scales of time – the ‘ancient’ and the ‘future’ – through the setting of an ethereal artistic urban landscape.

“I want to create a surreal atmosphere, so that the people who visit, relax or exercise here have the possibility of engaging in a dialogue with the past and the future. Time and space are dissolved and placed against each other, manifesting a sense of weightlessness, and unrestrained imagination,” says Ma Yansong.

He continues: “When building a cultural landmark on a site positioned between the dynamic energy of a modern city and quiet timelessness of nature, it should be imagined as free civic space – at first a land art park, with its functions complementing its aesthetics.”

MAD’s scheme is formed by a sprawling green plaza. A reception area, standard exhibition halls, public education space, library, auditorium, theatre, cafe and supporting businesses are spread out across the ground floor. Sunken into the terrain, these programmatic functions remain unseen.

Instead, they are visualised as an earthart landscape. Pedestrian pathways that lead directly from the city over to the park, freely connect the greater urban area and public green space to one another. The gentle sloping of the roof naturally falls into the ground, shaping several sunken courtyards of continuous height across the park.

FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

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SHENZHEN BAY CULTURE PARK, MAD ARCHITECTS

“Architecture should be integrated into nature, shaping a landscape where one can find spiritual belonging in the city,” adds Ma Yansong.

The sweeping green roofs and recessed courtyards form the foundation of this three-dimensional citizen’s park. It not only serves as a 24-hour open public space but also functions as a performance venue and exhibition area. A mirrored pool at the heart of the site serves as an en plein air seaside amphitheatre that can accommodate 10,000 people. Multiple platforms found across the enduring landscape provide outdoor performance venues and public art exhibition areas shaping a dynamic civic space for hosting art and music festivals,

and other domestic and international events – a place of cultural exchange.

The park is an extension of the city’s main road towards the water. Pedestrian walkways and cycling paths weave between the buildings and across the sprawling lawn, providing citizens with an expansive recreational space along the waterfront.

The north and south pavilions each sit on opposite sides of the axis and stand as smooth monumental stones, quietly settling into the environment.

They sit backed by the city’s powerful development, and face the open calm of nature and the ocean in front of them, uniquely marking the passage of time.

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Along the top floor of the south pavilion, visitors can walk through the exhibition space to reach a viewing platform that overlooks Shenzhen Bay and the city skyline. The special exhibition hall’s highest space soars to 30m. The unique gallery can accommodate a diverse display of large-scale installations, videos, multi-media and performances, delivering stunning architectural spatial effects.

Floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights throughout the main public space on the first floor and wash the interior with natural light, while also drawing the natural scenery and spirit of the park inwards, blurring the division between the indoors and outdoors.

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SHENZHEN BAY CULTURE PARK, MAD ARCHITECTS

The main public area has several standardised exhibition halls that can host a range of works, such as sculptures and special collection displays. The versatility of these exhibition spaces allows them to accommodate a variety of programmatic needs.

The Shenzhen Bay Culture Park is located within the Houhai area of Shenzhen’s Nanshan district. In the past decade, the economy of this area has developed rapidly into the city’s financial and innovation hub. In 2019, the GDP of the district exceeded 600 billion RMB. It is home to world-class enterprises such as Alibaba Cloud, Huawei and Tencent, which has coined it the nickname ‘China’s Silicon Valley’. The numerous high-rises that have emerged as a result of economic and technological development now stand as a contrasting backdrop to MAD’s design. As the city thrives economically, it now seeks to establish itself on a more cultural level. The Shenzhen Bay Culture Park is one of 10 new cultural facilities spearheaded by the Shenzhen city development, and represents Shenzhen’s ambitions of becoming a “city of culture with global influence.”

Creativity, influence and competitiveness – these are almost all the requirements of the rise of ‘super cities’. In what way will Shenzhen forge a different path of development?

Unique creativity comes from looking towards the future and pushing one’s imagination beyond reality. One needs to be both mindful and critical of the current state of normality, and anticipate the courageous and ambitious actions of future generations. Shenzhen Bay Culture Park seeks to create something seemingly familiar yet unknown. It brings a visionary concept into the city, where people can establish a renewed perspective of time and space.

www.i-mad.com FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

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SHENZHEN BAY CULTURE PARK, MAD ARCHITECTS

FACT FILE: Typology: Exhibition halls, park Site area: Approx. 51,000m2 Building area: 182,000m2 Principal partners in charge: Ma Yansong, Dang Qun and Yosuke Hayano Associate partners in charge: Kin Li and Tiffany Dahlen Design team: Li Cunhao, Zhang Chao, Neeraj Mahajan, Sun Shouquan, Zhang Yaohui, Huang Jinkun, Maria Corella, Kenji Hada, Lin Zi Han, Yu Lin, Yan Ran, Chen Yi-en, Liu Hailun, Pittayapa Suriyapee, Lei Kaiyun, Alessandro Fisalli, Edgar Navarrete S., Haruka Tomoeda and Lu Zihao Executive architect: East China Architectural Design and Research Institute Structural consultant: Arup Engineering Consulting (Shanghai) Co., Shenzhen branch Facade consultant: RFR (Shanghai) Co. Interior design: Shanghai Xian Dai Architectural Decoration & Landscape Design Research Institute Co. Lighting design: Beijing NingXhiJing Lighting Design Co. Signage design: Kenya Hara (Nippon Design Centre) Acoustic design: Guangdong Qiyuan Architectural Engineering Design Institute Co. Traffic consultant: Paimeng Transportation Consulting (Shanghai) Co. Traffic assessment: China Urban Development Institute Co. Animation: SAN Renderings: Proloog Model photography: Guo Xuan

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COLUMN

ON SITE WITH SYKES CHRISTOPHER SYKES I S A N A R C H I T E C T W H O T R A I N E D AT T H E B A R T L E T T S C H O O L O F A R C H I T E C T U R E AT U N I V E R S I T Y C O L L E G E LO N D O N . A F T E R H E Q U A L I F I E D , H E W O R K E D I N B O T H LO N D O N A N D S W E D E N . H AV I N G W I D E N E D H I S W R I T I N G A N D J O U R N A L I S T I C S K I L L S , H E S U B S E Q U E N T LY S TA R T E D H I S O W N P U B L I S H I N G C O M PA N Y S P E C I A L I S I N G I N B U I L D I N G M A G A Z I N E S A N D E V E N T S . A S A H O B B Y, H E U S E D T O W R I T E S I T C O M F O R T H E B B C .

The famous acoustics solution at the Royal Albert Hall ©Chris Christodoulou

AN INVISIBLE PROBLEM WITH HIGHLY VISIBLE SOLUTIONS

If you are thinking about nature, then one trendy acoustic solution is panels made from reindeer moss. This is hydrophobic (repelling water) with no roots, absorbing moisture and nutrients through the air.

It also filters out toxins and is maintenance-free.

An interesting event that illustrates how acoustics can influence interior design are the recent European Awards. This year, leading acoustic product manufacturer, Troldtekt’s design solutions (illustrated) won the Germany Design Award 2020 and the Iconic Awards 2019. They were also a finalist in the ‘Feel good – Product’ award category of the Danish Design Award and in the Peoples’ Choice category where the public selects the winner.

The Danish Design Awards jury commented: “Good acoustics play an important role in our feeling of wellbeing. This design solution uses existing materials from local sources that expand possibilities for good acoustic environments. The line of products is a well-rounded solution to an ongoing challenge of providing affordable acoustically comfortable environments where people are happy to live, enjoy and work.”

If ever acoustics really becomes invisible, it is worth getting advice from the experts. For example, Anderson Acoustics has launched free lunch-and-learn sessions specifically created for architects and technical managers to refresh and grow their knowledge of acoustics within the built environment.

The one-hour sessions held at its London and Brighton offices offer the opportunity to hear from expert acoustic consultants who share valuable information and advice on a range of topics including building acoustics, room acoustics, schools acoustics, sound insulation, planning noise impact assessments and more.

Emma Greenland, Education Sector Lead, comments: “We recognise the growing demand from architects for opportunities to learn about specific topics within acoustics, noise, vibration and air quality. Our informal continuing professional development (CPD) sessions meet this need by providing a convenient and relaxed environment for architects to acquire knowledge and relationships to deliver better buildings, spaces and places which look and sound amazing.”

Unusually, the specification and design of good and very sound acoustics is a horizontal activity. In other words, it is not just about the science of decibels for more suitable hearing in a space, but actually means that architects and designers have to think widely about the combination of acoustics with aesthetics, health and other issues. Sound is what we hear. Noise, on the other hand, is unwanted sound – and even relatively quiet noise can be distracting.

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ome of the leading manufacturers of acoustic products recognise this. They, and good designers, provide stunning highly visual solutions for what is essentially an invisible problem.

A great example is the acoustics of the 1860 Royal Albert Hall which used to suffer badly from an unfortunate echo caused by the curvature of its dramatic ceiling. Following acoustic tests carried out 100 years later, the solution was to hang fibreglass acoustic diffusers (fondly nicknamed ‘mushrooms’) from the auditorium ceiling. The contribution to its interior design is remarkable.

As we all know, bad acoustics can so easily ruin an environment.

Mad running noise in restaurants may sound fun but is actually a disaster when one customer cannot hear his neighbour. The path which sound takes is often bizarre. Bizarre when the priest’s words may be heard clearly by the front pews and the back pews but not by the middle ones because of the way bouncing sounds sometimes travel.

The good news is that this stimulates the design of interesting and different interiors. For example, baffles hanging from the ceiling, which add a dramatic aesthetic boost to an interior that might never have been used had the acoustics been bad.

Solutions are dramatically shown on www.pininterest/acoustic solutions, which illustrates an avalanche of product and design solutions for walls and ceilings.

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The wide selection of new acoustics panels, designed and manufactured by Troldtekt

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LEGAL & BUSINESS

IS IT REALLY AS SIMPLE AS “BUILD, BUILD, BUILD”?

The impact of COVID-19 on the UK’s construction industry cannot be understated. While every sector has been affected by the coronavirus pandemic, construction firms were hit particularly hard – development sites were temporarily closed, with some projects even facing the prospect of being cancelled outright. Now, it looks as though things are slowly getting back to normal.

However, the challenge we now face is ensuring the long-term recovery of the economy by supporting UK businesses, says Paul Howells, CEO of Accumulate Capital.

PAUL HOWELLS IS CEO OF ACCUMULATE CAPITAL – AN INVESTMENT AND PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT FIRM. ACCUMULATE CAPITAL CONNECTS REGISTERED INVESTORS WITH DEVELOPERS IN THE PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT FINANCE SECTOR TO ENABLE SELECTED, HIGH-YIELDING PROJECTS IN THE UK AND OVERSEAS.

FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

ACCUMULATE CAPITAL

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n Tuesday 30th June, we saw the Government’s intended solution to this problem. Prime Minister Boris Johnson had spoken much of his Government’s “levelling up” agenda through a “house-building revolution” when first elected, but such initiatives were placed on hold as efforts were wholly directed to curb the rise of COVID-19 cases.

In a bid to re-start construction; however, the Prime Minister now declared that he wishes to “build, build, build” once again. He has reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to focus on the construction industry as part of the efforts to revive the British economy.

A £5bn package of capital investment was unveiled as well as an additional £1.2bn fund for school improvement.

This is a positive step in the right direction, but there are concerns as to whether these ambitious investment plans are realistic and achievable. What’s more, we also need to take into account the possibility of a second outbreak of cases and the reintroduction of lockdown measures.

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Kickstarting the construction industry In order for the Government’s infrastructure investment to be realised, it must ensure construction firms are able to once again function at their full operational capacity.

It is being reported that productivity in the construction sector has dipped by 35%. This has to do with sites temporarily closing and developers implementing social distancing measures on-site. Although industry bodies were quick to provide guidelines for continuing operations through lockdown, enthusiasm has waned on big projects as part of the general economic stalling that COVID-19 has caused.

Additionally, supply chains were impacted by the COVID-19 lockdown. Countries closed off their borders, and factories were shut across the world. This initial supply shock left some projects without the necessary materials at the beginning of the pandemic and added to the issues laid out above.

As such, the market and employment stimulation that would come as a result of the plans laid out in Boris’ speech would be most welcomed. One extra benefit for the Government is the sheer number of individuals who are involved in any given construction project – ranging from architects and designers to conveyancers and builders.

This means any attempt to kickstart the UK economy must place construction at the forefront of its strategy.

LEGAL & BUSINESS

Political and economical The ‘levelling up’ agenda of Boris Johnson I mentioned earlier is specifically referencing the type of areas that make up the ‘red wall’ of the north.

Comprising previously Labour constituencies that, for the first time in generations in many cases, switched blue last election; these towns and cities are long overdue for more attention by central Government in providing proper infrastructure for regional development.

This point was repeatedly made in Boris Johnson’s own election campaign, so voters in these areas will be watching closely to see if such promises come to fruition. Directing construction efforts here would serve the double purpose of stimulating national economic activity and fulfilling his political promises.

Doncaster represents a fantastic example of a town where such promises must be kept. It is primed for a fantastic period of regional regeneration and, if proper assistance is given to local SMEs, it can become a core part of the Government’s ‘Northern

Powerhouse’ project. Accumulate Capital recently launched an Enterprise Park in Doncaster to help with such efforts in supporting local firms.

Done the right way What the UK Government needs to bear in mind is that no matter how much enthusiasm is brought into these efforts, they will go nowhere if said enthusiasm is not shared by the civil service and local councils in forming successful local partnerships.

Endeavouring to plan out new housing sites with property developers whilst ensuring social distancing is carried out on-site is no easy task, and the Government must ensure that local authorities are prepared for such an undertaking. Issues with project closures and supply chains have not completely vanished either, meaning that they also need to be taken into account when moving forward.

These potential problems may be evaded through new ideas; for example, the conversion of defunct high streets and retail parks into new housing. Such creative thinking is the result of successful public/private partnerships – where cooperation leads to new ways of addressing the residential and commercial property needs of regional Britain. Such collaboration should be heavily endorsed going forward.

If councils take such advice, I firmly believe that we should have confidence in Boris Johnson’s promise to “build, build, build”. If the right decisions are made, and all relevant parties approach this challenge with the right mindset, the UK can benefit hugely, and previously neglected regional hubs can undergo fantastic periods of renewal going forward.

www.accumulatecapital.co.uk 23

FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

DESIGN INNOVATIONS DURING AND POST-COVID-19 2020 will not be easily forgotten. With the loss of so many loved ones, the financial impact of being furloughed or losing one’s job, as well as witnessing the struggles of officials attempting to manage the situation, it’s certain that the impact of coronavirus will stay with us for a long time. However, from the depths of this crisis and its negative impact, there are hidden pockets of positivity, says Alan Dowdall, Associate at Ramboll UK. RAMBOLL UK

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hese have ranged from hotel owners giving their rooms to NHS workers to, at local level, people helping those in need with a simple task such as the weekly shop. Across the cultural spectrum, many people are putting themselves forward, using their skillset to make a difference.

In this time of crisis, designers are also looking to make a difference and provide that positive impact.

As designers, our job is to approach problems and provide solutions, and thus, the problems caused by COVID-19 have been no FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

exception. In fact, designers and construction professionals will be instrumental as we try to manage the impact of COVID-19, as their innovations will enable the UK to adapt to the restrictions imposed by coronavirus and allow us to continue to live and work together.

The Social Contact Pod, a collective effort between Scott Brownrigg, Hoare Lea, Constructional Timber and Ramboll, is a great example of a group of designers coming together to provide a solution which many of the more vulnerable members of our society will need. Although

protecting themselves from coronavirus requires isolation from family and friends, a physical connection with loved ones is essential in maintaining one’s mental health and wellbeing. The ‘Pod’ enables such connections, whilst also providing security from contamination.

The Pod is one example, but there are countless more.

In Ramboll alone, we have had many a creative mind come up with innovative design solutions, from forming 20,000 PPE visors out of office stationery to building ‘prevent infection’ apps. Designers seem well adept at applying 24

their skillset, generally finetuned to a specialist subject, to a wider social application. It is design innovations such as these that will not only see us through this crisis but continue to have a positive impact going beyond the pandemic.

When we emerge from this crisis, there will be challenges we will need to face, including the changes to social trends and implementing climate change initiatives on route to a net-zero carbon future. Design and construction professionals are going to play a key role in shaping this new world, enabling us to connect and interact with each other.

VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

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All images ©Scott Brownrigg

01: Perforated acoustic metal ceiling with integrated speakers

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02: Perspex screen

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03: Flip up/down table

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04: Fully accessible design

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05: Ventilation for air purging

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06: Handle-less door push plates

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07: Sensor-operated hand sanitiser 08: Cleaning station 09: Hygienic easyclean floor

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10: Protective hand-holding

The Social Contact Pod is a collective effort between Scott Brownrigg, Hoare Lea, Constructional Timber and Ramboll

During this period, many employers and employees have now found that working from home is a feasible option for many people. In fact, many companies have rapidly adapted to make this possible. While it may not be feasible for most people to continue working at home to the same extent beyond the COVID-19 crisis, it is reasonable to assume that we will see a trend of more people working from home than pre-COVID-19 levels. Trends such as these will no doubt be tightly monitored in the coming months and/or years.

From a designer’s perspective, we need to consider the implications of such a possible trend. Should the design and space planning of our new homes include dedicated workspaces/study areas built into the design? While housing design guidance does note that living spaces can be converted to work zones, this feels more of a temporary fix, rather than a long-term solution. One practical idea could be increasing floor areas in our new homes in order to provide a comfortable working standard.

It is also possible to extrapolate this potential trend from the view of a home

space design to the wider scope of the neighbourhood and community designs. If we spend more time working at home, the majority of our physical social interactions will switch from work colleagues to members of our local communities.

Designers would then need to innovate new communities, or revitalise existing urban areas, creating spaces that encourage connections to our surrounding neighbours.

These are places that improve social trust and mental health and can cater for young to old, nurturing and encouraging community bubbles that also care for our most vulnerable.

So, what then happens to our workspaces? Do we increase our home spaces and decrease the space required for our offices? The housing crisis is still here, and new homes are still needed. If we move some office space previously set towards commercial buildings into our homes, then surely fewer office buildings will be required.

If this is indeed the case, then perhaps we do not necessarily need to focus as much on new buildings, but instead on reusing and refurbishing the stock of existing buildings already available where possible.

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The design challenge then will be in adopting a suite of many building types of various usage into flexible working space within the constraints of an existing frame but to today’s acceptable standards. Reusing, as opposed to rebuilding, is not a new concept, and the sustainability credentials are well known. Indeed, in committing to making London a zero-carbon city, a London Building Stock Model is being created to provide a snapshot of all of London’s buildings, including information on energy performance.

Such data will be powerful in targeting and upgrading buildings of inefficient energy use into modern low-carbon spaces.

It is possible to speculate on many aspects, industry requirements and cultural trends in a post-COVID-19 future. Whichever direction the country chooses to go, it is sure to be an interesting time with many challenges to be met and overcome through design innovations. It is quite possible that 2020 becomes, in reflective hindsight, the starting point of a cultural paradigm shift, that kick-starts in earnest our route to a net-zero carbon goal.

www.ramboll.com FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

FLOORS, WALLS & CEILINGS

READING BETWEEN THE LINES: THE HIDDEN POWER OF MODULAR FLOORING As many companies begin thinking about a return to the office following lockdown, it’s clear that we are entering a new era of workplace design. Being socially distant in an office environment presents many challenges, but it’s a factor we will have to live with for months, or potentially even years, writes Laura Light, Concept Design Team Leader at Interface.

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We want to help companies to sensitively and safely integrate teams back into these environments by creating nurturing and reassuring spaces for employees.

Offices will need to place a renewed focus on biophilic design, sustainability and design considerations that impact wellbeing, such as better acoustics. For this reason, when designing our products, we’ve taken a long-term approach to development, creating carbon-neutral tiles which promote safer and calmer environments, while also making beautifully designed workspaces.

earning to live and work with coronavirus will mean implementing measures such as reducing the density of staff in open-plan spaces, restricting communal areas, visual zoning, wayfinding, installing dividing screens and splitting work shifts. Whether businesses are looking to create entirely new workspaces or turning their attention to reconfiguring existing ones, this shouldn’t mean that design is comprised. It’s still possible to create beautiful and inspiring workplaces while incorporating social distancing.

A new way forward At Interface, we recognise the vital, functional benefits that our modular flooring products can play in wayfinding in commercial spaces, and we are seeing customers successfully and seamlessly adjusting their flooring in accordance with new safety guidelines.

Modular flooring is designed to be taken out and installed via individual tiles, so designers are able to incorporate visually engaging and well-matched flooring plans to support safety across their projects. With a tile-by-tile approach and by using colour and texture, modular flooring acts as an almost subliminal communication tool to influence how occupants move and behave. With modular shapes and dimensions, it is possible to create clear and graphic zoning areas in any building. The variety in the pattern and rhythm of tiles helps occupants understand where to walk and, importantly, where not to, keeping them connected from a safe distance. In open areas, the floor can even be designed to fit around furniture to create designated places of space.

Reaffirming company culture While we may see a shift in terms of the way offices are used in the future, they still have an integral role to play in reaffirming company culture. The reality is that the physical office is still needed as the workplace helps to bring people and ideas together, which is key to a positive and productive culture. It’s extremely difficult to replicate this emotional and creative hub virtually.

Investing in the future The coronavirus pandemic has reminded all of us that people are a company’s most important asset and while in the shortterm companies will have to adapt to the pandemic, longer-term the focus will be on future-proofing offices to minimise a repeat disruption to the business and most importantly, its people. Our Concept Design team is focused on listening to these needs and understanding how we can create innovative, inspiring and people-led workplaces as we adapt to these new measures.

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As employees are phased back into the office gradually, and at limited capacity, workplaces may increasingly become spaces for interaction, community and collaboration – used for memorable teambuilding events and learning activities.

Reconfiguring our offices and ways of working shouldn’t mean that we need to lose our corporate culture. This is why our ‘Designing for Distance’ solutions offer a wide range of colours, textures and tones to ensure that companies still have the freedom to express their brand identity. From muted, softer tones, to allow for versatility and tranquillity to brighter, bolder colours which naturally warn us away from certain areas, our solutions prove you can still create beautiful, bespoke designs for your customers while implementing social distance measures. This means floorplans continue to be aesthetically pleasing for occupants as well as uniquely functional. Interface’s accompanying guide provides inspiration for how to create visually engaging boundaries and zones throughout various types of commercial settings.

www.interface.com

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GLASS & GLAZING

A CLEAR ROUTE TO SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION Last month, the UK Government announced its plans to encourage the nation to “build, build, build” as part of its efforts to kick-start the UK economy post-coronavirus. While there is much to be admired in this sentiment, we must not lose sight of other important issues the construction and building product manufacturing sectors need to address, particularly around sustainability.

PEREGA CLEAR STRUCTURES

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uilt environment professionals from the independent builder and selfemployed architect, to the largest contractor and global practice will be acutely aware that the clock is everticking down to 2050. By this time the industry needs to have achieved net-zero carbon status.

In spite of some of the encouraging steps taken in the right direction, from adopting more circular design methods, to tentatively embracing digital construction technology, increasing efficiency and reducing waste, we are still some way off achieving this scenario.

This gradual drive towards carbon neutrality has also encouraged us to reappraise the materials we use in construction and how we specify them. One of these is structural glass. The last decade has seen a number of innovations in glazing products and advancements in construction methods, meaning you can improve a building’s carbon footprint through strategically placed glazing.

Here, Joe Thornton, Engineer at Perega Clear Structures, looks at some of the solutions and new thinking which are helping to deliver a greener built environment.

New light through old windows Retrofitting windows is a cost-effective and rapid way to significantly improve the sustainability of a building. Replacing the windows and facade elements of existing building stock with modern and new technologies, especially in older FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

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buildings, can make significant improvements to the structure’s energy efficiency, reducing consumption and CO 2 emissions.

One emerging example is smart glass technology, which allows the windows to adapt to fluctuating weather conditions. This could include the ability to darken in response to the sun’s rays, or to intuitively adjust its light transmissions properties as the air temperature fluctuates.

Pilkington UK recently put together a wide-ranging report on the future of glass in commercial buildings, where they explored these innovations in detail. For one contributor, Architect Ian Ritchie, the green potential of these new systems are significant, saying that smart glass will deliver “a stable, comfortable environment for occupants without automatic recourse to expensive heating and air conditioning.”

As these latter two activities account for the substantial majority of a building’s emissions, this technology could significantly help reduce the carbon footprint.

GLASS & GLAZING

Circling around the issue If we’re going to truly deliver a more eco-friendly built environment, we must also look beyond the performance and energy efficiency of windows and facades during the operational service life.

It’s important to rethink current processes and innovate to achieve a more circular supply chain, which will reduce the glass’ embodied carbon.

Upcoming changes to the Building Regulations will go some way to providing a clear, robust framework which the construction industry can follow in order to specify more sustainably. However, more needs to be done to raise awareness that embodied carbon in many waste materials, including glass, can be as much as the emissions produced by the building itself through lighting, heating and air conditioning. Disposing of it merely adds to the problem.

One solution is to look at the way in which window and facade materials are removed on existing buildings and how they can be repurposed, recycled or reused. Often,

perfectly good, undamaged glass either goes straight to landfill or is crushed up for use as road bedding, when it could have a second, third or fourth life within a new build.

Laminated glass is one product which is crying out for some fresh thinking.

We should be investing in low-impact delamination technologies which will enable this material to be recycled and subsequently reused.

A multi-layered approach Other technological innovations having a big, positive impact on the built environment’s carbon footprint are the increasing specification of double and triple glazed units. Filled with inert gas and invisible, low emissivity coatings, their systems have, according to trade association Glass for Europe, significantly improved the insulating properties of windows and facades. As we know, better insulation means improved thermal performance with less dependence on carbonintense central heating.

Equally, when specified in large, floor-to-ceiling formats, maximum natural daylight is attained, meaning reduced need for artificial lighting solutions. As an added bonus, when coupled with passive air conditioning and heating systems, solar gains can be exploited to maintain a comfortable, consistent temperature within the building.

A quick internet search will show that I’ve only scratched the surface. Ultimately, clever specification of glass, alongside other structural elements, is proven to deliver lower carbon 29

buildings, bringing us closer to the 2050 target.

As material experts, we need to get better at communicating the benefits of investment into sustainable technologies, especially how we dispose of, or upcycle existing glazing in urban areas. It might present a significant short-term cost now, but it will be well worth the investment in years to come.

This is something we cannot afford not to address.

www.perega.co.uk/clearstructures FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

BIM

HOW BIM IS TRANSFORMING CONSTRUCTION Major construction projects are becoming increasingly more complex, involve multiple task teams and span several years, making projects fraught with challenges. As individual task teams work in isolation from other members of the delivery team, the result is unsynchronised processes and procedures with no defined standards for quality control. As a result, issues are only identified as work commences on site, causing abortive work and wasted materials which all come at a cost to the project and the environment, says Paul Hargreaves, Group BIM Manager at TÜV SÜD. TÜV SÜD

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uilding Information Modelling (BIM) is the process of working collaboratively to mitigate these risks using one “single source of truth”. The BIM process not only refers to the production of a 3D model but all the processes and procedures that monitor the progress of a construction project from cradle to grave, irrespective of project size.

BIM, also commonly referred to as digital engineering, utilises the progressive development of a 3D virtual construction model during design, construction and post-occupancy, allowing the separate parties to address issues well before construction begins.

BIM also enables the creation of multiple ‘what-if’ scenarios, so alternative approaches can be evaluated, allowing a more iterative approach during the project. As BIM facilitates more effective management throughout the entire project lifecycle, it can also contribute to the realisation of larger project goals such as improved energy efficiency, healthier environments for occupants, and increased environmental sustainability.

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The stages of BIM The BIM maturity levels are: Stage 0 – unmanaged CAD Stage 1 – managed CAD (2D and 3D) Stage 2 – developing building information in a collaborative 3D environment using separate discipline models. The UK Government’s Construction Strategy now has a minimum requirement for stage 2 BIM on centrally procured public projects.

Stage 3 – potentially utilising cloud-based modelling but more focused around the operation phase of the built asset and how data recorded from the built asset can influence future decision-making.

The benefits of adopting BIM In our own analysis of previously digitised industries and audits of BIM adopters, TÜV SÜD have identified additional important drivers of increased profitability, resulting from the adoption of BIM technologies. In total, the six most dominant drivers include: 30

1. Better asset quality and usability When used for digital prototyping, the BIM methodology helps to keep design and construction activities focused on the key performance indicators (KPIs) as defined by the investor or asset holder. It enables lifecycle analytics and operational metrics to be embedded into the earliest stage of a project.

2. Improved information and decision management BIM supports more effective and more confident decisions by combining virtual inspections and visualised information in a way that facilitates understanding by building owners and investors. This can dramatically reduce the number of changes and corrective actions, greatly improving the likelihood that a project will be completed on schedule and within budget.

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3. Greater project efficiency

5. Uprated sustainability outcomes

By centralising all projectrelated data and virtualising communication and collaboration, BIM enables real-time access across disciplines and locations, providing all parties with continuous access to accurate and up-to-date project information.

In addition, project scheduling is more accurate and easier to monitor, supporting more efficient and streamlined processes with traceable responsibilities and visual coordination.

BIM supports the collaboration between architects, engineers, service designers and facility managers in evaluating multiple energy usage scenarios in the context of other project requirements. This allows the delivery team to adjust construction specifications and materials to maximise natural resource efficiencies. This can result in reduced operational costs as well as a higher asset value (e.g. by supporting a higher level of sustainability certification).

4. Increased transparency The transparency of project information generated by BIM makes it easier to identify and resolve discrepancies and errors related to design, materials, construction and documentation.

Model checks for spatial, material, cost and schedule issues provide building owners and investors with increased insight into their project.

This allows them to communicate more effectively with engineers and architects and increases accountability. Operational safety, regulatory and legal issues are also clearly documented so that asset holders have a clear understanding of all relevant matters.

It is important to note that these key benefits are achieved only when the BIM methodology is adopted to its full potential and executed in the three dimensions of strategy, tactics and operation. In projects where BIM has not been effectively implemented or executed, we have seen costs soaring over the initial construction budget by between 10 and 30%. There have also been situations where there has been an increase of between 40 to more than 100% in the time invested during the design stage, often caused by reprogramming incorrect data standards or redeveloping BIM models.

BIM is a change to the traditional methods in which the industry works, and peak efficiency will not occur overnight. It is clear that BIM has the potential to increase efficiency and reduce construction costs during the

6. Overall operational excellence BIM models can serve as an object-related database for CAFM, CMMS and ERP systems that allow data from actual operations to be fed into and out of the BIM model, allowing for further BIM model refinement and modifications to lifecycle management practices, and generating updated performance benchmarks. TÜV SÜD uses the term BIM-to-computer-aided facility management systems (BIM2CAFM) to describe the strategic, tactical and operational implementation of BIM models in the operational phase.

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planning, design and execution stages, while also improving overall project quality and utility.

Building owners, investors and asset holders would benefit from the effective adoption of BIM as an essential process to design, plan and operate assets over their entire lifecycle.

The architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industry has embraced digitalisation with open arms, realising the benefits and potential it has to offer. It’s an evolving technology with a steep learning curve, which will take time to fully adopt and embed, across all sectors of the built environment. However, the ability to integrate state-of-theart materials and technologies into designs to increase usability, maximise efficiency and promote sustainability, is a prize worth fighting for.

www.tuv-sud.co.uk/real-estate FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

DISABILITY

INCREASING DEMAND FOR INCLUSIVE BATHROOMS This has been an unprecedented year on many levels, what with construction sites having to implement social distancing measures and four in 10 architects reportedly struggling with their mental health during lockdown . The industry has been battling to keep sites open and building work progressing, and the UK’s 2020 outlook now sits between a contraction of 5 to 12%, with the bounce back in 2021 forecast to be between 1 and 10%.

AKW

Ageing population = inclusive home demand

Good wheelchair accessible bathroom design

Following the significant site construction and operational disruption of COVID-19, Knight Frank’s research consultancy team has predicted that the total delivery of new homes in the UK will drop by 35% in 2020. In the longer term, consumer sentiment will also impact recovery, and house-builders will, not surprisingly, only build what they can sell. One thing that won’t change; however, is the UK’s rapidly ageing population and with it an increasing demand for inclusive, accessible public and private housing.

To ensure that more new homes meet minimum accessibility standards will take time, but with 1.2 million wheelchair users in the UK already, it is an area of housing design that sorely needs attention. Here, Stuart Reynolds, Head of Product and Marketing at AKW, explains how housebuilders and developers can bring good design to bear, in cost-effective ways, for those needing wheelchair accessible bathrooms. More detailed advice can be found in the new AKW Wheelchair Guide for Accessible Bathrooms.

What exactly constitutes ‘good’ wheelchair accessible bathroom design? The following is best practice advice taken from the Building Regulation’s Doc M for wheelchair user dwellings and also from Kate Sheehan, Occupational Therapist of The OT Service, for a well-designed wheelchair accessible bathroom:

FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

Promote movement around the space Manoeuvring into and inside the bathroom are key considerations, not only when thinking about the wheelchair user but any personal care assistants that might accompany them. With this in mind: Prioritise level access throughout the space – use a wetroom former, or a recessed or ramped shower tray Ensure doors are outward-facing – this increases space in the bathroom and helps in case of emergencies Ensure easy and safe level shower access – this can be done by using a corner design for the shower space Minimise any gradient near the WC – a level access shower area has a gradient to help 32

the water drain. Ensure that this is not part of the WC transfer zone, to minimise wheelchair tipping hazards.

Incorporate a raised height toilet – to allow for easier transfer from a wheelchair to a toilet seat Ensure toilet accessibility on both sides, if possible – this is best-practice advice and facilitates transfers, personal assistant support and potential changes in need for the wheelchair user Ensure that there is no external plumbing and pipework – to promote ease of movement around the space, all pipework needs to be concealed within the walls Think about the placement of radiators or towel rails – these can hinder wheelchair movement. Always opt for low-surface temperature heat sources and consider underfloor heating as an alternative.

Use slip-resistant flooring – to maximise the traction of the wheelchair and minimise falls Use a wall-hung sink – to improve access.

Consider one with handles or a concave design to make things easier for a wheelchair user. The sink’s height should also be tailored to the user’s requirements (although compromises might be needed if the space is also used by the wider family).

DISABILITY

KEY: Two sites: A: WC access zone B: Alternative permitted locations for a wash hand basin (in a bathroom) or a hand rinse basin (in a WC) C: Fittings can encroach up to 500mm one side or the other (not both) D: 1500mm diameter clear turning circle – may overlap max 500mm with shower E: Hatched area shows 1000mm-long x 1000mm-high x 100mm-wide zone kept for fitting of grab rails.

Good design promotes independence The aim of any accessible bathroom is to promote the dignity of the user. If they are also able to use the space independently, then these are key elements to include: Think about shower placement – as this will impact movement around the space. For example, fittings can encroach up to 500mm on one side of the space (not both).

Use technology to promote independence – for example, AKW’s SmartCare Plus remote-controlled shower helps the wheelchair user control everything with no additional assistance Think about the user’s reach – to ensure that all of the essential fixtures and fittings (such as the toilet flush, light switches and bath/shower controls) are at a height and reach that supports functional use

Add a handle or rail to the door – to help the wheelchair user close the door behind them, without the need for additional assistance Tailor the placement of grab rails – to suit the abilities of the wheelchair user.

Think about rail placement beside the WC, washbasin and level access shower.

Depending on the bathroom’s layout, fold-up rails may benefit some users and any personal assistants Incorporating a bidet – bidets promote user independence. If this is something that the wheelchair user would benefit from, remember to include an isolated electrical supply in compliance with Building Regulations for this.

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Good design needn’t be expensive. In fact, the majority of the suggestions in AKW’s latest Wheelchair Accessible Bathroom Design guide are focused on using cost-effective adaptation equipment in ways that make sense to the space and the wheelchair user.

For more details on how to ensure the best possible wheelchair accessible bathroom design, download the new Wheelchair Guide for Accessible Bathrooms (www.akw-ltd.co.uk/ wheelchairbathroomguide).

www.akw-ltd.co.uk FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

BUILD FOCUS: TIMBER & SURFACING MATERIALS

BUILD FOCUS:

TIMBER & SURFACING MATERIALS

FC&A rounds up the latest case studies, advice and stories from the industry’s leading professionals.

This month’s Build Focus shines a light on how architects, designers and specifiers will have to change their way of thinking when it comes to specifying building materials in a post-pandemic world.

STUDIO Collection

Abet Laminati

SPECIFYING MATERIALS DURING A PANDEMIC With the world still in the grip of COVID-19, the built environment is having to respond.

While lockdown is easing, it is being done on the condition that social distancing and hygiene are top of the agenda for individuals and businesses. This means changes to the places we work, shop and relax; changes that are likely to remain until next year at least.

JAMES LATHAM

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Sector-by-sector challenges

he biggest challenge for architects in the short-term is how they respond quickly to the effects of the pandemic and redesign spaces to help safeguard people from the virus. Material choice is under a huge amount of scrutiny now, for example: “Will the virus survive on the surface of this material? If so, how long for? Can it cope with a heavy cleaning regime?”

There is a lot of information available from suppliers and manufacturers, but how can architects cut through the noise to learn about and source new materials with suitable properties to help in the battle against the virus? Architects often like to work with existing suppliers and with materials they know and trust, which is understandable. However, the landscape is shifting rapidly, and new materials will need to come into play.

Each sector has different challenges and; therefore, different materials are needed.

For example, public-facing businesses, particularly in the retail and leisure sectors, are adding sneeze guards to protect their staff and the public. Clear plastic screens have been popping up everywhere, especially around tills and customer serving points.

However, many of these have been added without any flare or style, and in many cases, they are made from a flimsy clear plastic offering. When subjected to regular cleaning with tough detergent, they are going to scratch and start to look shabby before long.

By investing a little more in higher quality clear acrylics, you can get it right first time. Products like AcryBright are extremely hard-wearing and will stand the test of time, even in high use scenarios.

If a business, such as a gym or an office, needs screens to separate staff or users, but do not need them to be transparent, there are a number of thermoformable solid surface materials available. For example,

Where to begin? Anti-bacterial verses anti-microbial If a surface is to remain safe in the post-COVID world, it ideally needs anti-microbial properties. However, this should not be confused with anti-bacterial. It is important to understand the differences. Anti-bacterial materials prevent bacteria from growing on their surface, while antimicrobial products halt the growth of bacteria and a broader range of viruses, organisms, protozoa and fungi such as mould or mildew. This broader performance makes this type of material significantly better for high-use surfaces and high traffic areas.

Some products have anti-microbial properties built in such as some advanced thermoplastics, like KYDEX. A homogeneous product, it can be moulded to any shape and colour matched, perfect for branded environments, such as retail or leisure uses, schools and corporate spaces.

Thanks to its hard-wearing nature, it can be used for a wide range of objects including desks, worktops, chairs and storage units. It is available in a number of bright colours, which are ideal to add a splash colour to the environment.

Others, like laminates, have anti-microbial properties added via a coating. One example is Abet Lamishield which contains silver-ions that help inhibit surface growth by 99.9%. When combined with good cleaning practices, this kind of product is highly effective.

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Aristech Surfaces’ STUDIO Collection is available in a range of translucent colours, is durable and has hygienic properties. It can also be backlit to provide a unique ambience for the area.

The hospitality sector faces some different challenges, with hotels, in particular, needing to increase cleaning regimes. For hotels, it is the fast turnaround of rooms that is the biggest challenge. Many hotels are now looking at thermoformed bathroom pods and bedroom furniture as a solution.

Challenges of the health sector With a high volume of potentially vulnerable people, hospitals have a very special challenge. Many surfaces need to be anti-microbial and hard-wearing. For that reason, the lower half of most hospital walls, doors, furniture and over-bed tray tables are all made of or coated in the aforementioned KYDEX. It is damage-resistant and can withstand strong cleansers with no staining.

Even graffiti can be removed from its surface without fading or surface damage.

It also contains Microban

BUILD FOCUS: TIMBER & SURFACING MATERIALS

STUDIO Collection

anti-microbial protection, which halts the growth of microbes and reduces the spread of infection.

It was extensively used in the NHS Nightingale programme to produce Integrated Panel Systems (IPS) for selfcontained handwash stations as well as overbed tables for each patient bay.

How to find out more If you need to find out more information about these kinds of products, a good place to start is supplier websites. They often include case studies that show the materials in use, details about the product range and available options, and technical information such as testing, certification and performance-related data.

And while CPDs are no longer taking place face-to-face, do not forget the value of liaising directly with sales teams. Virtual tools such as webinars are becoming increasingly available and; of course, there is always the option to contact them directly. As product experts, they will be able to offer comprehensive guidance on materials, their properties and the best applications, as well as discuss your specific requirements.

As the world adapts, so must architects and designers. It is time to find the new normal when it comes to specifying materials.

KYDEX

KYDEX

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FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

TECHNICAL FOCUS

OVERCOMING ENGINEERING CHALLENGES IN RISER DESIGN How grooved solutions have been making contractors and engineers reimagine the way they construct risers in vertical buildings.

VICTAULIC

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nter into the right pub or head to a city’s museum or town hall, and you can often find a picture of how the surrounding area used to look. An image from 20 years ago and the difference isn’t too vast. 50 years back and there’s a definite change. A picture from over 100 years ago and it’s practically unrecognisable. And what’s the common theme running through these images? Cities are getting taller.

As more people migrated to urban areas, developers saw the need to go higher.

But with this comes its own unique set of challenges. How can the safety of the ground floor be transferred to, in the most extreme case, level 163? To find out how grooved mechanical pipe joining solutions are helping developers and engineers go higher, FC&A spoke to Matthew Strohm, Director of Product Development Piping System Design at Victaulic.

When it comes to high-rise buildings, there are a number of potential challenges a piping engineer will need to take into consideration, most of which relate to thermal movement and the resulting forces on the building. Other issues such as seismic activity and building creep (the natural movement of a building due to settlement) also need to be taken into account.

Specifically related to piping systems – and subsequently, pipe joining solutions – is the unique problem of having to compensate for thermal expansion and contraction while at the same time accommodating for higher pressure. Change in pipe diameter is not an uncommon concern for engineers; however, providing a solution which could operate at a pressure gauge of 25 bars, or the fluctuating temperature of water, presents its own challenges.

FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

It’s with these issues in mind that engineers choose their joining solutions, which is why these are the very criteria we set our Victaulic pipe joining solutions against.

Grooved vs traditional pipe joining For decades, the traditional solutions for joining pipes have been either welding, threading or flanging. These are good solutions to choose from, but there is a distinct lack of flexibility in a solution which fuses or flanges system components together. This is where flexible grooved couplings come in: a best-in-class solution that allows controlled linear and angular movement at each joint to accommodate not only for thermal expansion and contraction but also building sway and creep.

So how do flexible grooved couplings manage this? It’s essentially down to the design of their components. The dimensions of the pipe coupling housing key are narrower than the pipe groove, allowing room for movement. Furthermore, the width of the pipe coupling housing allows for pipe end separation, which, in turn, allows the grooved pipe joint to accommodate movement.

There are many benefits of grooved couplings, with space-saving being a key advantage on projects both large and small.

As many project managers and engineers know, saving on space can be the key to unlocking extra value above initial planning.

Additionally, grooved couplings are perfectly placed to accommodate for piping movement whereas welded joints, which in their very nature are designed to be fixed in place, need to have an area of space to allow for a welded expansion loop or alternatively, enough space to allow the star-pattern tightening of a flanged flex connector.

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Besides the savings on space, grooved connections offer contractors savings in three key areas: time, money and labour.

The installation-ready design of Victaulic’s grooved couplings allows for easier installation, meaning a process which might take 30 minutes through a welded solution, for instance, can now take five. As any contractor will testify to, this is valuable time which can be used for other parts of the project.

With a reduction in time comes savings in cost and labour. Naturally, less labour is used for the same job and, in the case of grooved couplings, less skilled labour is required (in comparison to the high skill level needed for welded joints). It’s these aspects which will ultimately deliver contractors with valuable project savings.

Mechanical riser solutions There are three ways to accommodate thermal movement within risers using a grooved mechanical system.

The first method is called the top of riser free floating method and involves installing rigid couplings on the riser and two flexible couplings on the adjacent horizontal piping at the top of the riser, which can reduce the need for riser clamps or other structural elements during installation and allows the system to move freely within the design tolerances.

The second method involves working with grooved expansion loops which help to save up as much as 2/3 of the size of welded U-shaped expansion loops and avoids forced welded pipe deflection. While welded expansion loops require eight welded joints to assemble, the forces exerted on the joint are far greater than those applied on a grooved expansion loop and generate greater stress, which ultimately requires larger anchors and guides in order to direct the movement.

TECHNICAL FOCUS

The third method is working with grooved expansion joints instead of traditional in-line expansion joints, which typically have wear parts and manufacturer–recommended maintenance cycles of five years, which also poses problems due to riser accessibility once the construction is complete. Grooved expansion joints like the Victaulic Style 155 are maintenancefree for the life of the system.

Importance of anchors In a system using only flexible joints, risers are installed with anchors at the top and bottom and the piping guided every other length to prevent angular deflection at the joints within the piping run. Anchors distribute the movement forces across the structure and also provide the important task of directing pipe movement. At the pipe anchor location, there will be no differential movement between the piping and the building structure, which forces the pipe to thermally expand or contract from that location. This allows the design engineer to control how and where the movement in a system occurs and to provide the best solution to accommodate that movement.

A good manufacturer will always listen to customer demand, especially in an evolving market, and off the back of strong feedback from contractors, Victaulic recently upgraded its A10 grooved riser anchors to a standard product. With the primary functions of carrying the weights and forces which act downward to the base of the riser and connecting the riser to the rest of the structure, the anchor has been providing sturdy support for some of the tallest buildings around the world.

Future trends for high-rise buildings KEY:

03 04 02

05

02 06 07

01

01

01: DN300 02: DN65 03: DN300 VIC COUPLING STYLE 77 (FLEX) WEST TOWER RISERS 04: DN65 VIC QUICKVIC COUPLING STYLE 177N (FLEX) WEST TOWER RISERS 05: DN65 VIC 300 MASTERSEAL BUTTERFLY VALVE LH&MS (TYP) 06: DN65 X DN 50 VIC CONCENTRIC REDUCER No 52 (BSP) WEST TOWER RISERS 07: DN65 X DN65 VIC TEE No 20 WEST TOWER RISERS

03

One trend already taking place, and I expect to continue, is contractors bringing riser experts into the project at an earlier stage.

It just seems to make logistical sense to operate in this fashion; it’s a more efficient use of time to collaborate early in the process. I believe contractors and engineers will seek assistance from companies such as ourselves to help design blueprints together, working in tandem to produce the right solution.

Vertical buildings are on the rise. For generations, people have been moving to urban areas, putting greater demand on housing residents and employees. Through the use of grooved coupling solutions as an alternative to traditional methods, contractors can benefit from greater flexibility, reliability, ease of installation and ultimately and most importantly, speed of the installation process.

www.victaulic.com 37

FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

FLOORS, WALLS & CEILINGS

COMPANY IN PROFILE: OSCAR ACOUSTICS

In applying the SonaSpray to 100% of the soffit, it not only looks better but it reduces to the material depth required to the equivalent of a Class B or C. As our test data is worstcase onto a concrete slab, the actual substrate can also have a huge impact. If spraying onto a flat hollow rib deck, you are gaining a huge amount of material depth over the rib gaps which increase low-frequency performance and thus the Class.

Likewise, if you are spraying onto something like a D60 profile steel sheet, the surface area is increased.

Not only this but on the diagonal slopes of the profile, the material is a lot deeper when the sound is hitting it vertically.

This means that we can dramatically reduce the material depth to save a huge amount of time and material, which allows us to make the system even more economical for the client.

Oscar Acoustics is a family business set up 42 years ago by Managing Director Ben Hancock’s father, John Hancock. For over 20 years the brand has been providing architectural acoustic finishes and soundproofing solutions for many types of buildings including offices, schools, stadia, restaurants and homes. Here, FC&A talks to Ben about the company history and finds out what’s in store for the future.

OSCAR ACOUSTICS

What is Oscar Acoustics’ most notable project?

That has to be Warner Bros film studios and the Harry Potter Studio Tour. This was over 10 years ago now, and the continued popularity of it has pushed them to extend it twice, the last being a doubling in its size. By the end of 2020, we will have sprayed 21 studios for Warner Bros.

What is Oscar Acoustics’ most challenging project?

There’s Oscar Elite acoustic plaster in the stunning five-star Four Seasons Hotel in Trinity Square, London. This was a challenging project as we were having to make a product with a fairly ridged baseboard and create some truly incredible shapes. We were having to mosaic it to the GRG shapes as they were curving in every direction possible. Fortunately, the advantage we have over other smooth acoustic plasters is that we can sand the final coat. When you trowel shapes like this, it is impossible not to have imperfections and trowel marks. Rather than that being the limit of the finish we were able to achieve, we were able to hand-sand to absolute perfection. The result was extremely satisfying!

Do you believe there’s enough emphasis on acoustically sound spaces within today’s building industry?

What’s the most frequently asked question you receive from architects and building specifiers?

I have been told I need a Class A absorber; What Class is SonaSpray? SonaSpray is any class you need it to be as we adjust acoustic performance by increasing and decreasing the material depth to suit the acoustic requirement and budget.

Mostly when a Class A absorber is requested, it is not needed due to several factors. Sometimes they have been told to apply a Class A to 80% of the soffit.

www.oscar-acoustics.co.uk FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

No, not yet, unfortunately.

I see a lot of new office photos where tiled ceilings have been removed in favour of nice high ceilings

mail@oscar-acoustics.co.uk 38

and exposed services yet with absolutely no acoustic treatment.

High noise levels are a huge problem, and they can damage people’s health in ways far beyond hearing loss. The Chief Medical Officer in England says it is second only to air pollution in damaging health, while the World Health Organisation (WHO) highlights issues such as tinnitus, sleep disturbance, heart disease, obesity, diabetes, adverse birth outcomes and cognitive impairment in children. I think we’re on the edge of something big here. There’s a real lack of knowledge among employers, putting their employees’ health at risk.

What can we expect to see from Oscar Acoustics in the next few years?

This year, we’ve doubled in size to meet demand, and we’re building a purposebuilt training facility, the ‘SonaSpray Training Academy’.

By the end of 2023, our target is 400% growth on the acoustic spray side which we feel is ambitious yet achievable. We’re also globally ambitious, and we’re gearing up to export the innovative Oscar Iso-Mount soundproof ceiling system.

Watch this space!

01474 854902

DOORS & WINDOWS

THE SKY IS THE LIMIT WITH BILCO UK’S SKY FLATGLASS SMOKE VENT Bilco UK is supporting specifiers, architects, engineers and facilities managers in achieving the highest standards in safety, efficiency and aesthetics with the launch of its new SKY Flatglass smoke vent.

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he innovative product, which can be installed on flat roofs across a wide range of commercial and residential building types, offers professionals a diverse ‘three-in-one’ solution, as it can be utilised as a smoke vent, roof access hatch and rooflight.

Suitable for installation on new-build developments or retrofitted onto existing projects, the CE Marked smoke vent can be wired into the Building Management System to provide a fully compliant solution that will automatically open in the event of a fire or smoke.

The SKY Flatglass is fully compliant with all relevant Building Regulations outlined

BILCO UK

in Approved Document B and is tested to BS EN 121012 to support professionals in achieving constant compliance in line with the latest legislations.

Unlike many competitor products that use polycarbonate, the smoke vent features a single-leaf flat glass sliding cover, offering a functional yet aesthetic approach to natural smoke ventilation, particularly for exposed areas where a hinged opening may not be suitable.

The streamlined flat glass enables the smoke vent to also be utilised as a rooflight, flooding interior spaces with natural light. When used in conjunction with a fixed

www.bilcouk.co.uk

ladder, it can also be utilised as a roof access hatch, opening to 180º for safe and secure access.

The latest range has been tested for impact resistance, meeting standard BS EN

bilcouk@bilco.com

1873: 2014 Class SB1200.

This is achieved through its innovative construction, which features a top layer of toughened glass, spacer filled with 90% argon and a low-E laminated glass layer.

01284 701696

VICAIMA LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE STRENGTHENING THE USER’S EXPERIENCE Always aiming to build the perfect online experience for its customers and partners, Vicaima has launched a new website, which aims to improve the ease of navigation for its users, providing spontaneous and differentiating interaction with all features and tools. Yet another innovation, from a company which is continuously investing in a close, modern and intuitive digital footprint.

VICAIMA

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mong the new features, Vicaima highlights the speed of the platform and the contemporary, functional and responsive redesign, strategically created to facilitate the search process for users, in line with their intentions, needs and desires.

Thus, the new website is characterised by dynamism, accompanied by carefully selected content, as well as a wide range of products, performance and solutions, with a view to boosting the digital presence of the brand in the national and international arena.

This redesign includes aesthetic improvements allowing for more immersive experimentation and improved navigation, which allows visitors to easily find the information they need.

www.vicaima.com

“After many months of work and dedication by our entire team, we are very pleased with the launch of the new Vicaima website. This latest step reflects the company’s ability to anticipate trends, innovate, propose complete and exciting proposals to the market. With the new website, the user can easily and intuitively access the commercialised products, news, catalogues, technical information, projects and news, as well as request the download of BIM solutions from Vicaima, quickly and effectively.

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We believe that we will strengthen our position as one of the dominant players in the market.

“With the new design, we expect an increase in the number of visitors and consumption of content on our page. We look forward to feedback and the new and exciting developments to come,” stresses Antonio Moutinho, Director at Vicaima Group.

01793 532333 FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

RCI & FACADES

MEETING AESTHETIC, ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND ENVIRONMENTAL EXPECTATIONS

Solent University Sports Complex

There have been huge technical developments in cladding solutions in recent years and with architects demanding a more aesthetic approach to the building envelope, Heath Hindmarch, Chairman of PSP Architectural, considers the balance that has to be struck in meeting design, energy efficiency and environmental expectations.

PSP ARCHITECTURAL

Anne McLaren Building on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus

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RCI & FACADES

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facade can make or break a building’s standing in the community. There are many that settle for conventional facade designs which perfectly meet Building Regulations and functional requirements, but which can lack identity and character.

A facade’s function is to not only act as an external barrier between the inside and the outside, but can also play a huge role in creating stand out and appeal. It makes a statement to the outside world which links the exterior building with the interior design. Here at PSP Architectural, we help our clients realise their ambitions through our vast experience and applying our integrated expertise combined with the most advanced digital and manufacturing technology – to unlock the potential in every project.

But in addition to being aesthetically pleasing, a facade plays a pivotal role in energy efficiency – reducing energy bills for the lifetime of the building. As well as contributing to the building fabric, a well-designed facade also minimises solar gain, which in turn, reduces the cooling loads of buildings.

This dual energy efficiency role is not only costeffective but is also a highly sustainable approach.

Facades are the outcome of sophisticated technology and advanced manufacturing processes which means they are highly resistant to the external environment – making them highly resilient and durable. This resistance to temperatures, weathering, and corrosion makes facade systems an increasingly widespread choice across all construction sectors – from stylish apartments to statement commercial builds.

More than ever before, the safety of the materials we use and environmental sustainability standards – quite rightly feature in construction conversations.

Our job is to manage a range of contributing aspects while meeting the client’s aesthetic expectations.

www.pspuk.com

Sustainability will dominate specification briefs for many years to come as we strive to create projects which are in line with environmental targets. We all have to play our part, and I firmly believe that it is the responsibility of everyone operating in the built environment to work to ensure each facet of the building process adapts to accommodate this stronger focus.

Greater sustainability can be achieved by looking at how a completed facade can be improved to provide a better environmental solution and understanding how to use the palette of materials and systems to balance out the different conflicting sustainability targets and agendas for the overall benefit to the project, space and users.

The future of sustainable building lies in evolution, not revolution. It will take the combined expertise of clients and consultant teams to continue to push boundaries and emphasise the priority of sustainability, utilising the technological advances which will drive the built environment forward. Through doing this, we can continue to deliver outstanding results without compromising on sustainability, or indeed aesthetics.

Our facade systems at PSP have been tested and approved by the Centre for Window & Cladding Technology (CWCT), ensuring we meet rigorous industry standards. We have made large investments in recent years and have positioned ourselves as a single point of procurement for bespoke full envelope solutions.

As a leading manufacturer in our field, we understand the importance of working closely with architects, clients, customers and suppliers to build longlasting working relationships that allow us to provide the very best engineered solutions. Over the last 20 years, we have developed vast knowledge and deep understanding of what the right solutions are for each building.

Experience is everything, and we feel that maintaining practical capability throughout the whole design and manufacturing processes enhances the complete client experience.

A design-driven strategy is at the forefront of all our operations, ensuring that innovation and quality are at the core of our systems. We design, manufacture and supply a massive range of products including rainscreen cladding, specialist fabrications, solar shading and facade support systems using a range of different metals to meet our customers’ bespoke requirements.

For the best possible results, it is imperative to choose a specialist manufacturer with design expertise to meet aesthetic, energy efficiency and environmental expectations.

147 Woodberry Grove in London

ABOUT PSP ARCHITECTURAL: Heath Hindmarch is Chairman of PSP Architectural – one of the UK’s leading providers of rainscreen facade systems, metal fabrications and bespoke full building envelope solutions. All manufacturing processes take place in a precision-controlled advanced manufacturing facility in Shildon, County Durham. The company’s architectural and aluminium manufacturing divisions also collaborate with their experienced design team in Cramlington, Newcastle Upon-Tyne, to maintain premium quality throughout all processes, from design to manufacture, to transportation of finished systems.

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01388 770490 FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

RCI & CLADDING

Brick cladding systems are lightweight and versatile and; therefore, suitable for application either offsite or on site. The reduced weight and support requirements mean reduced line loads, framing and foundations, with greater productivity and cost efficiency.

They are also more sustainable and will; therefore, reduce the environmental impact of conventional brickwork, due to the use of thin brick slips and less mortar. There is less material and embodied energy in production, fewer deliveries to site, reduced movement and storage on site, and less waste disposal.

Pedigree

A VERY MODERN SOLUTION With the coronavirus pandemic affecting almost every industry, modern methods of construction (MMC) will play a key role in helping construction adapt to the ‘new normal’. Paul Richards, MD of brick cladding systems supplier Aquarian Cladding Systems, has seen the rise of MMC first-hand and explains why it will become even more important as the industry gets to grips with the ‘new normal.’

AQUARIAN CLADDING

VUCA times Technology and the use of data are hailed as the solution for most industry sectors to become safer, more predictable, and more profitable in increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) times.

It could be argued that the construction industry has always experienced degrees of VUCA, but this time the case for the use of MMC as a solution is more compelling than ever, as it addresses the increasing number of challenges that we face.

www.aquariancladding.co.uk FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

MMC is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution and options vary from full turnkey, volumetric solutions to panelised or factory-assembled components – designed using the very latest visualisation and scheduling software technology. Key to the use of MMC is its ability not to compromise the appearance or performance of a building.

As brick facades seem more popular than ever in British architecture, so brick cladding systems are increasingly being used to give a building its traditional appearance and robust protection, with the advantage of being a modern method of construction.

We are experiencing greater demand than ever for our cladding solutions, as they offer all the benefits of an offsite solution but with the hybrid flexibility to be adapted on site too. Speed of delivery and installation, reduced build programmes and reduced prelim costs, including replacing scaffolding with mechanical access, are all major benefits of MMC. Our brick cladding systems come in a wide choice of natural colours and finishes. Using brick slips formed from fired clay and pointed with natural mortar, a building will therefore still have a familiar, traditional appearance. Even tired-looking buildings can benefit from a new lease of life, with negligible extra load and overall wall thickness.

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Despite being classed as a modern method of construction, brick cladding systems are not quite as modern as many might think.

Our Gebrik system is a factory-produced, panelised alternative to conventional brickwork and is supplied in a kit of parts, including all components needed to create a brick facade. It has been produced since 1982 and so used across Europe for almost 40 years. Here in the UK, it has been used on buildings exposed to most extreme UK conditions, including height, coastal conditions and high pedestrian access.

An ability to adapt With Building Regulations changing across the UK, the only route to compliance for residential buildings above 18m is for the use of non-combustible, or limited combustible, i.e.

A1 or A2, materials.

Our Mechslip and NaturAL-X brick cladding systems use brick ‘tiles’ with unique profiles to enable them to each be mechanically secured onto metal cladding support rails and subsequently pointed. Both systems have been tested to CWCT test methods for weathertightness and under EN13501, are classified as A1 so are suitable for use on buildings in excess of 18m (as well as those below).

0808 223 9080

RCI & CLADDING

KALWALL SECURES CARGO Kalwall translucent cladding has been used in another project at Heathrow Airport. This time it has been specified for a new 10,000m2 state-of-the-art premium cargo terminal. Designed by specialist logistics firm Gebler Tooth Architects, this temperature-controlled facility has been built to handle pharmaceutical and other premium cargo.

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alwall has been installed to transmit high-quality diffused daylight while also helping solve the issues around solar gain, privacy and security. A specialist bespoke Kalwall canopy provides protection without compromising visibility for critical operations.

The Kalwall wall elevation provides glare-free diffuse daylight, avoiding hot spots and reducing the reliance on the HVAC systems to maintain the constant internal temperature required in such a facility. The cladding’s inherent strength and heavyduty impact resistance make it ideal for secure locations

such as this while U-values as low as 0.28W/m 2K, equivalent to a solid wall, can be achieved by including translucent silica aerogel within the panels.

The 66m-long, 4m-wide canopy is a bespoke solution designed to provide weather protection for forklifts operating at the loading bays.

The canopy itself is supported on a steel frame extending from the side of the building.

Completely mansafe to walk on, the canopy is colour stable and includes a UV-resistant, self-cleaning surface. This means that normal rainfall helps to keep the surface free of dust and dirt while at the

www.structura-uk.com/kalwall

same time retaining its original colour during the weathering process.

Architect Peter Fennell commented: “The Kalwall canopy gives the weather protection we need for the forklift operators loading

and unloading but avoids shadowing. So there are safety and operational benefits, and as it has great spanning capability, it needs less steel to support it than glass and less cleaning and maintenance.”

mail@structura.co.uk

01233 501504

SCHOOL’S RE-ROOFING PROJECT SHAPES UP NICELY THANKS TO BMI BMI

Geometrically-shaped with many facets, the roofs of Thorpepark Academy in Hull now have a guaranteed extra 20 years of life after being fitted with a cost-effective overlay system devised by AHR consultants and BMI. This primary school consists of two separate hexagonal buildings. The roofs were visibly ageing, so the Venn Academy Trust invited BMI to survey the roof and apply for Condition Improvement Funds. As the survey found that the existing roofs were in good enough condition to remain in situ and act as the substrate, the bid was to install an overlay system that included BMI Total Torch Vapour Control, BMI Thermazone Roofboard Insulation, TorchSafe T.A. Underlay and Thermaweld FireSmart Capsheet.

www.bmigroup.com/uk

marketingukandi@bmigroup.com

BMI AERODEK TILES ON THE BUTTON AT SUTTON BMI

Swift to install and vandal-resistant, the BMI AeroDek lightweight metal roofing tiles from BMI enabled contractors to replace the failing roof at St Helen’s Sutton Academy with minimum disruption, bringing it up to 21st-century standards while maintaining its modernistic appearance. Covered against failure to provide a weatherproof roof with BMI’s 40year insurance-backed product guarantee, the 5200m2 roof is the first phase of the re-roofing project, yet it is a case of ‘spot the join’ as the coated zinc aluminium galvanised steel tile panels closely match the existing concrete tiles. “It’s a good all-round package for the school: a well-known product backed by a strong guarantee,” remarks Stuart Jenness of Lancaster Maloney, which commissioned the roof.

www.bmigroup.com/uk

marketingukandi@bmigroup.com 43

REDLAND MINI STONEWOLD IS THE PERFECT SOLUTION AGAINST HIGH WINDS IN ORKNEY BMI REDLAND

With winds in excess of 130mph prevalent on Orkney Islands, a solution was required that could withstand the elements when it came to roofing a facility for members of the community. The BMI Redland Mini Stonewold Slate was chosen due to its strength, robustness and appearance.

Hamnavoe House was commissioned

by Orkney Islands Council (OIC). The Redland Mini Stonewold Slate was chosen for several reasons, explains OIC Senior Project Officer, John Wallace. “The tile is very popular here. From the planner’s point of view, it has a flat slate appearance like many of our traditionally built roofs. It’s also very strong, especially when fully fixed, which makes it the perfect choice given our environmental conditions.”

www.bmigroup.com/uk marketingukandi@bmigroup.com FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

BUILDING ELEMENTS

NEW HYDRAULIC DESIGNSOFTWARE FOR HAURATON SURFACE DRAINAGE SYSTEMS HAURATON’s new web-based application ‘DesignSoftware’ provides construction industry professionals with quick, simple hydraulic analysis, channel sizing, project design and product specification for the company’s range of surface drainage systems (for landscape, commercial and civils projects) whilst working on their own desktop computers, laptops and tablets.

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mmediate access for registration and use of this new hydraulic design software is achieved through the link: https://hydraulicdesign. hauraton.com User-friendly and free of charge, HAURATON ‘DesignSoftware’ provides engineers with the flexibility to create their own drainage designs and project specifications, with just three clicks to a hydraulic calculation.

HAURATON has used its ‘in-house’ hydraulic design software to create project designs for over 30 years with total reliability.

In addition to this new software application, HAURATON offers a comprehensive design service, which is also free of charge.

Design reassurance DesignSoftware has been tested extensively and the methodology validated by an independent hydraulics consultancy company.

HAURATON’s ‘in-house’ hydraulic design software has been used successfully by its own technical personnel for over 30 years with total reliability.

Confidential Registered users (password protected) have access to safe and secure server storage regarding their final designs.

Designs remain strictly confidential unless users tick to ‘share with HAURATON’.

Registered users have the option to export design files for external storage in their own computers or for sharing with colleagues for further design or discussion.

https://hydraulicdesign.hauraton.com

Experience and expertise A world-leader in the manufacture of modular surface drainage systems, HAURATON drainage products have been supplied onto major projects within the UK and international markets for over 65 years.

HAURATON developed its first linear drainage system in 1956. Since that time, the HAURATON brand has become known around the world as a benchmark for quality, reliability, durability and service.

janine.kennedy@hauraton.com

A PREMIUM FINISH, AT A SENSIBLE PRICE

01582 501380

SIMPSON STRONG-TIE LAUNCHES CROSS-LAMINATED TIMBER RANGE

OSMO UK

Polyx-Oil from Osmo UK is a premium wood finish guaranteed to keep wooden surfaces in top condition. Ideal for solid, engineered or laminate wood, it is a high-quality, water-repellent and treadresistant wood finish based on natural ingredients. Available in glossy, satin, semi-matt and matt finishes, the Polyx-Oil range offers the highest coverage of any oil on the market – a 2.5 litre can covers approximately 30m² with two coats. Polyx-Oil is extremely easy to apply. Simply brush onto the wood’s surface along the grain to achieve deep, long-lasting penetration. Another key benefit of this hardwax-oil is that Polyx-Oil uses a dearomatized and benzene-free white spirit, therefore, making the odour more pleasant in comparison to others. This makes Polyx-Oil a much healthier wood care product to use. Polyx-Oil also contains no biocides or preservatives and is safe for humans, animals and plants when dry.

SIMPSON STRONG-TIE

Simpson Strong-Tie, leader in engineered structural building solutions, has launched a comprehensive range of connectors and fasteners to serve the growing demand for CLT construction, along with a brand-new ‘Connectors & Fasteners for CLT Construction’ catalogue. The CLT product range is backed by a robust distribution system, along with first-rate service, technical support and training, enabling design flexibility and ensuring projects can be built stronger, faster and more easily than ever. “With over 25 years of designing and manufacturing here in the UK, Simpson Strong-Tie is proud to now offer smart solutions for CLT,” says Jon Head, Sales Director. “We’re looking forward to bringing our product range to this fast-growing sector; particularly our brand-new structural angle brackets, hold downs and beam hangers, along with a heavy-duty connector screw and a Quik Drive collated screw system for timber frames.”

www.osmouk.com 01296 481220 FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

DesignSoftware has been configured to comply fully with GDPR ‘data privacy’ regulations.

www.strongtie.co.uk 01827 255600 uksales@strongtie.com 44

BUILDING ELEMENTS

FLEXIBLE OFFICE SPACE IN A POST-PANDEMIC WORLD

EARTHBORN DOUBLES SILICATE COLOURS

STYLE

Although home working has become the new norm, there will always be a need for people to meet for collaborative working and negotiations, which just cannot be carried out as effectively using online technology. Allowing commercial offices to be quickly reconfigured, the use of moveable wall systems will be a cornerstone to the redesign process, delivering flexible space that can be quickly adapted to help ensure social distancing requirements can be safely maintained. “We have been installing high-quality partitioning systems in commercial offices nationwide for over 20 years,” said Julian Sargent, Group Managing Director for Style. “As the UK’s leading moveable wall specialist, we are the sole distributor for Dorma Hüppe, Skyfold and SWG, so are able to offer a truly comprehensive range to meet all budgets and location.” Operating nationwide, Style has won multiple awards over two decades in the UK moveable wall sector and prides itself on its people, systems and processes as well as its high attention to detail, sustainability and health and safety.

EARTHBORN PAINTS

Exterior masonry is probably the toughest test of all for paint. It needs to be durable and weatherproof, as well as good looking, and not all masonry paints were born equal. Ecopro Silicate Masonry Paint is a highly durable, breathable and weatherresistant mineral paint, which is also virtually VOC- and toxin-free.

Earthborn believes its Ecopro Silicate Masonry System is the most advanced masonry paint available and in response to growing demand, it is increasing the colours available from 24 to 48. The system comprises a primer and paint, which together form a chemical bond with the underlying mineral substrate. The result is a very hard-wearing, water- and weather-resistant barrier, yet it is highly breathable, which prevents moisture damage within walls.

Now, both the primer and all of the 48 paint colours are available to order from the Earthborn website in 100ml tester pots, so the whole system can be tested on site.

www.earthbornpaints.co.uk/silicate-colour-card-trade 01928 734171 sales@earthbornpaints.co.uk

www.style-partitions.co.uk 01202 874044 sales@style-partitions.co.uk

F. BALL SALUTES THE NHS F. BALL AND CO.

F. Ball and Co. has helped to support frontline NHS workers as part of SalutetheNHS.org, a major non-profit initiative, set up to provide one million nutritious, free meals to these vital NHS staff over a three-month period as they have fought the coronavirus pandemic. Specifically, F. Ball has donated floor preparation materials and adhesive to install temporary flooring at a former aircraft hangar in Bicester that has been transformed into a food distribution centre for the duration of the project. The installation of vinyl safety flooring over a 1500m2 area of the hangar was undertaken by flooring contractor John Butler Contracts of Nottingham.

www.f-ball.co.uk

mail@f-ball.co.uk

01538 361633

FIRST CONTRACT AWARDED FOR OFFSITE SOLUTIONS’ GRP FLOORLESS BATHROOM PODS FOR BTR OFFSITE SOLUTIONS

Offsite Solutions has been awarded the first contract for its new enhanced and floorless GRP pods developed for the build-to-rent (BTR) sector – a £1.6m project for ISG in Cardiff. Offsite Solutions will manufacture over 400 bathroom and shower pods for Cardiff Interchange – an £89m flagship, mixeduse construction project for developer Rightacres Property. The scheme is designed by Holder Mathias Architects. The bathrooms and shower rooms for 318 apartments for the private rental sector will be manufactured and fitted-out offsite and installed on each floor as the building structure rises. This solution will reduce the build programme and the number of trades required on site and will enhance quality.

www.offsitesolutions.com/floorlessgrp

info@offsitesolutions.com 45

01278 780807

GILBERTS ADDS BIM PORTFOLIO GILBERTS (BLACKPOOL)

Britain’s leading independent air movement specialist has invested significant time and effort to ensure that Revit files for its entire range of most popular grilles, diffusers and louvres are now accessible. The catalogue is available for free download upon registration via its dedicated BIM portal. “Every one of our popular standard ranges is now included on the portal,” says Ian Rogers, Gilberts Sales Director. “We will continue to build on the core base, and, if there are specific requests, we have the internal capability and capacity to upload the relevant files within 48 hours. All our files are fully compliant with the BIM ISO 19650, launched last year.”

www.gilbertsblackpool.com info@gilbertsblackpool.com 01253 766911 FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

BUILDING ELEMENTS

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ith the stadium directly behind and its frontage on Wembley Park Boulevard, it will provide 150 dwellings over 11 storeys. The project utilises a variety of concrete frame techniques, including slipform concrete cores and a skeletal concrete frame installation. The building exterior features hand-set brick, a punched window facade – and elegant slide-on balconies – an aesthetic and appealing addition to the new development. As with many of the other projects at Wembley Park, Schöck Isokorb load-bearing thermal insulation elements are critical to the balconies’ structural and long–term insulation performance. The modular design of the Isokorb type used on Beton means it can be adapted to all profile sizes and loadbearing capacity requirements. On this occasion, the units were fixed to a cast-in plate, rebars and a stub bracket. The balcony cantilever support arm was then attached to the stub, and the fully preassembled balcony chassis slid on to the cantilever arm and locked into position.

Thermal bridging is a serious issue

SCHÖCK MAINTAINS STRONG PRESENCE IN WEMBLEY REGENERATION The Quintain Wembley Park regeneration, one of London’s largest housing delivery schemes, is still scheduled for completion in 2027, despite current world events. The latest residential development nearing finalisation is Beton, also known as site W06.

SCHÖCK

The Schöck Isokorb modular unit used on the project

Ineffective insulation at cantilever connectivity points will result in local heat loss, and this major consequence of thermal bridging means that more energy is required to maintain the internal temperature of the building. In addition, low internal surface temperatures in the area of the thermal bridge can cause condensation, leading not only to structural integrity problems with absorbent materials such as insulation products or plasterboard but also mould growth. This can have serious health implications for residents in the form of asthma and allergies. So for any project involving balcony connectivity, the prevention of thermal bridging is a critical issue.

Construction dependability and freedom of design As the leading international supplier of structural thermal breaks, Schöck has almost limitless variants available in its main Isokorb range, offering planners complete construction dependability and enormous freedom of design.

The comprehensive Schöck Isokorb range offers solutions for concrete-toconcrete, concrete-to-steel, steel-tosteel, a thermally insulating connection for reinforced concrete walls – and even a maintenance-free alternative to wrapped parapets. All products meet full compliance with the relevant UK Building Regulations and NHBC, offer LABC registration and independent BBA certification. The temperature factor used to indicate condensation risk (fRSI) which must be greater than, or equal to, 0.75 for residential buildings, is also easily met by incorporating the Isokorb.

www.schoeck.co.uk FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

design@schoeck.co.uk 46

01865 290890

BUILDING ELEMENTS

MAKING BUILDINGS HEALTHY

Image ©Kirstine Mengel

Although sustainable building is on the rise, large quantities of the harmful substances in some building materials still manage to slip through into new and refurbished buildings. In a new online theme from Troldtekt A/S, experts present their views on material health and indoor climate – and possible solutions to the challenges.

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his problem exists because material health does not always have the same concern as, for example, acoustics, ventilation or daylighting. In an interview with Martha Lewis, Head of Materials at Henning Larsen Architects, the theme focuses on the health of building materials and their influence on indoor climate.

The theme also features inspiration from some European buildings which excel at being verifiably healthy and have Troldtekt acoustic solutions incorporated into their architecture. For example, it

features the newly opened C2C lab in Berlin where all the materials meet the Cradle to Cradle design criteria. These are valuable and much more detailed calculations than are available elsewhere.

Troldtekt, a leading developer and manufacturer of acoustic ceiling and wall solutions which contains no deleterious materials, wants to be specified for buildings that are healthy for their occupants.

This is why the company is working strategically to support the third UN Sustainable Development Goal – ‘Good Health and Wellbeing.’ In practice is because their products

www.troldtekt.co.uk

contain no deleterious materials. This theme also explains how the recognised DGNB certifications focuses on the health and comfort of building users. Specified throughout the UK and

Europe, the benefits of 100% Troldtekt natural wood-wool panels include high sound absorption, high durability, natural breathability, lowcost lifecycle performance and sustainability.

info@troldtekt.co.uk

01978 664255

HYDE PARK PROPERTY PROTECTED USING FIREFLY ZEUS LITE BARRIER TBA FIREFLY

DC Fire Protection, a long-term customer of TBA FIREFLY, has employed the manufacturer’s ZEUS Lite system to create a 90:30 minutes’ fire barrier within the firstfloor ceiling void of a commercial property in London’s Hyde Park area. FIREFLY ZEUS Lite is ideally suited to this type of application, comprising a non-rigid woven fabric fire barrier that has been specifically developed for the vertical separation – and compartmentation – of extensive concealed spaces within buildings. FIREFLY ZEUS Lite is amongst the range of products regularly employed by DC Fire Protection.

www.tbafirefly.com

technical@tbafirefly.com

01706 758817

DEANESTOR AWARDED £2.3M STUDENT FIT-OUT CONTRACT IN LONDON

©Apt

DEANESTOR

Deanestor has been awarded a £2.3m contract for a major new student accommodation scheme in London.

This is Deanestor’s fourth project for the developer urbanest. Deanestor is manufacturing furniture, supplying fittings and will fit-out 629 bedrooms and more than 200 kitchens for urbanest City in Vine Street, London. Due for completion in 2021, the furniture for two 13-storey buildings and one six-storey block will be installed in four phases. The architect is Apt, and the main contractor is Balfour Beatty. The bedroom furniture will have a dark woodgrain finish and includes single, three-quarter and king-size beds with storage drawers below.

www.deanestor.co.uk

enquiries@deanestor.com

01623 420041 47

KÖNIGSTONE ACHIEVES NSF CERTIFICATION KÖNIGSTONE

The high quality of Königstone’s KönigQuartz range can be depended on to add beauty and elegance to the kitchen.

And it is 100% safe. The exceptional calibre of these surfaces has now been endorsed with the award of NSF Certification; KönigQuartz products have obtained NSF/ANSI 51 certification, meaning that safe contact with food is guaranteed.

When a surface is tested and certified by NSF International for being safe in food contact areas, the composition is verified so it will not leach harmful chemicals that could contaminate food or make the surface difficult to clean. Choosing a product certified by NSF ensures means that it complies with strict standards and procedures imposed by NSF.

www.konigstone.co.uk info@konigstone.co.uk 0333 577 2903 FC&A – AUGUST – 2020

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