FC&A February 2019 by Red Hut Media Ltd

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February 19

Issue 108

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Building Facade Solutions Staticus’ state-of-the-art facade

engineering answers high-specification project requirements

What’s on – Futurebuild 2019 Plan your trip to this year’s much-

anticipated Futurebuild event with FC&A’s show preview

Insurance Post-Grenfell

How you can plan ahead when renewing insurance policies after the radical change in the industry post-Grenfell

The future of the built environment Introducing Futurebuild 2019 Futurebuild is the evolution of ecobuild. It brings together opinion-shapers, decision-makers and product innovators under a common purpose to explore the latest technologies and approaches, and debate the biggest issues facing the built environment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; now and in the future â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both in the UK and overseas. @FuturebuildNow

Futurebuild is home to six focused Hubs dedicated to knowledge sharing across key elements of the built environment and an industryleading content programme driving meaningful debate on the biggest industry issues.

/FuturebuildNow

FuturebuildNow

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

Mixed Media Information Barham Court, Teston, Maidstone, Kent ME18 5BZ Tel: 01622 232723 www.fca-magazine.com www.mixedmediainfo.com

Editor Rebecca Kemp rebecca@mixedmediainfo.com Editorial Assistant Paige Smith paige@mixedmediainfo.com Print & Digital Advertising Sam Ball sam@mixedmediainfo.com Print Design Manager Jack Witcomb jack@mixedmediainfo.com Digital Design Manager David Perry david@mixedmediainfo.com Production Assistant Philip Coyle philip@mixedmediainfo.com Accounts/Credit Control Jackie Dearman jackie@mixedmediainfo.com Managing Director Sam Ball sam@mixedmediainfo.com

Terms and Conditions: 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 Mixed Media Information 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.

Front cover: Lithuania-based facade engineering company, Staticus, provides a full range of solutions for high-end project demands. See page 30.

Magazine February 2019

Welcome

to Future Constructor & Architect...

ith the worst month of the year well and truly behind us, it’s time to look toward more positive, brighter months. This year, there’s an abundance of events and trade shows to engage in, which all aim to bring the trade closer together to discuss testing issues, unveil impactful innovations and shine some light during what may be seen as a turbulent age for the industry. One such event is the recent overhaul of the ever-popular ecobuild show. Now recognised as Futurebuild, the show casts light on tackling the vital difficulties facing our industry; both now and in the future. With a completely revised and refreshed programme, it’s worth noting, however, that the show’s original story has not been omitted and the ecobuild brand still lives on in 2019 taking on the form of the event’s conference hub, situated at the heart of London’s ExCeL. The ecobuild conference will be host to discussions such as the sustainable future of construction and comprise all manner of fields; from house-building to build quality as well as health,wellbeing and climate change. To book your ticket for the ecobuild conference, head over to Futurebuild’s website. As well as conferences and a wealth of exhibitors, Futurebuild will be joined by top headliners within the realm for a multitude of seminars; including the RIBA, TRADA, the Good Homes Alliance and many more. For more information on this year’s show, turn to pages 40-41. I hope you enjoy this edition. Don’t forget you can also access all of the magazine’s features, product news and supplier information at your fingertips via Future Constructor & Architect’s state-of-the-art app. To download your version free of charge, simply search ‘fc&a’ on Google Play or the App store.

Rebecca

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Rebecca Kemp Editor, Future Constructor & Architect

Cover image: ©Paulius Gasiunas

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Contents News 10 Industry Updates:

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

12 Studio in Profile:

FC&A’s Architect in Profile returns this month with a twist as Studio in Profile. This month, Michael Barker, Senior Partner at Stephen George + Partners, explains how he simultaneously played the role of client, developer, architect and tenant.

26 Legal & Business:

Bryan Banbury, Managing Director at Russell Scanlan, offers his advice on Professional Indemnity Insurance after the tragic Grenfell disaster in 2017. Here, he discusses the impact the blaze has had on insurance.

28 Voice of the Industry:

In this month’s instalment from our UK-leading certification body, Head of the BBA’s Testing Unit, Alvaro EnguitaGonzalez, explores the objective of the BBA’s ground-breaking Product Excellence Programme (PEP).

30 In Focus:

38 Building Access, Security

Facades:

Solutions & Safety:

Staticus UK’s MD, Paulius Gurksnys, tells of the facade contractor’s involvement in a high-specification project for Queen Mary University of London.

32 Building Maintenance & Preservation:

Crown Paints’ Colour Specialist, Kathryn Lloyd, paints a colourful picture on how the confident use of appropriate hues and tones can help you create building facades that will stand the test of time.

34 Technical Insight: Roofing:

In this article, Sika UK’s Sustainability Manager, Dr Sarah Peake, explains all you need to know about March 2018’s update of the BREEAM UK New Construction (NC) guidelines. Dr Peake undertook the BREEAM assessor training in 2014 to grow her expertise on the subject, enabling her to support architects and specifiers further.

36 Glass & Glazing:

Features 22 Hospitality:

Built to facilitate hikers’ treks and provide a sanctuary in which wayfarers can unwind and relax, the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) has unveiled a series of day trip cabins amidst the beautiful, picturesque vicinity of the Norwegian mountains.

The safety risk of an uncertified product can conceivably put specifiers’ reputations in peril. Uncertified products not only pose a danger to buildings’ users but energy efficiencies can also be overstated. Here, Justin Seldis of Sunsquare looks at the lack of standards within the skylight realm.

A new independent living facility in Aylesford, Kent, has received the GEZE UK treatment for extra safety. GEZE RWA 110 NT window actuators have been installed throughout the three-storey facility, increasing safety for its residents.

Portfolios 14 Stylus, gpad london:

Sited in Europe’s answer to Silicon Valley – the Silicon Roundabout – Stylus, gpad london’s latest high-end office project, has an impressive past. Once a Victorian gramophone factory in the St. Luke’s conservation area, Stylus has received a modern-day makeover; however, still holds on to its bygone purpose.

18 Le Cheng Kindergarten, MAD Architects:

“My ideal kindergarten is not a theme park or a place of shelter. It should be objective and real, but go beyond reality and provide some space for the unknown and imagination,” says MAD Architects’ Principal, Ma Yansong, on the design on Beijing’s latest kindergarten design – complete with a ‘floating roof’.

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Industry Updates

NEWS

FC&A rounds up the latest industry news

In Brief Futurebuild partners with BEIS and Innovate UK

Futurebuild has been announced as an Official UK Government Innovation Partner as it unveils plans to host ‘The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Innovation Zone’ at the 2019 event. The Innovation Zone will inspire and educate visitors around the Government’s ambitious clean growth initiatives, and provide knowledge to innovative companies on how to access funding and support from BEIS and Innovate UK. The Government has recently set out a Clean Growth Grand Challenge, as part of the Industrial Strategy, to put the UK at the forefront of the global low-carbon economy of the future. The Innovation Zone – delivered by BEIS in conjunction with Innovate UK and the wider innovation family – will demonstrate the Government’s work in delivering on the Clean Growth Strategy and showcase the impact and opportunities of BEIS’ Energy Innovation Programme. Focused on accelerating the commercialisation of innovative clean energy technologies and processes, the £505m programme is a major element of the Government drive to ensure UK industry is at the leading edge of the global shift to clean growth. Futurebuild has been selected to host the Innovation Zone due to its position as the industry event that brings built environment opinion shapers, decisionmakers and product innovators together under a shared goal of achieving positive change. At the Innovation Zone, BEIS will be highlighting the economic opportunities presented by tackling climate change. Visitors will be able to learn more about businesses who are already benefiting from the opportunities created by the £2.5bn Clean Growth Strategy, as well as gaining an in-depth understanding of the work of BEIS and opportunities available from BEIS and Innovate UK.

First project in Belgium for Stefano Boeri Architetti

Palazzo Verde will be the new landmark of developer Antwerp Nieuw Zuid’s district, whose masterplan establishes that 60% of its surface – 12 hectares – will remain green. terraces designed to host three roof gardens, Palazzo Verde is going to give its own contribution to fight air pollution absorbing 5.5 tons of CO2 per year.

“We thought that it was very important to have at the centre of New Zuid district as a new green spot that – whether in the courtyard or roof gardens – hosts a relevant amount of trees and shrubs and gives oxygen back to the city. We are very satisfied with our first project

CIOB chief executive announces retirement

Designs on growth for North East architect

Gallagher Group appoints CEO

One of the longest-serving chief executives at a professional body has announced his retirement. For almost 20 years, Chris Blythe OBE has led the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). He will retire from the CIOB in May 2019. CIOB President, Chris Soffe FCIOB, said of Blythe’s time with the CIOB:“Leading a 184-year-old organisation, like ours, and keeping it relevant is no easy feat. Chris has transformed the CIOB into a modern international institute, able to adapt to the changing needs of its members and in an industry undergoing a digital revolution. With his influence, he has helped establish the discipline of construction management as a chartered profession.”

Pod Newcastle is gearing up for continued growth with two new appointments. Launa Cowan, 26, joins the Toffee Factory-based practice as a newly-qualified Architect, while Matthew Turnbull, 25, comes in as a Part II Architectural Assistant.The move comes on the back of several large-scale projects such as the Callerton Park residential development, enabling the firm to ensure the resources and expertise are in place as it develops further in the next 12 months. A graduate of Newcastle University, Launa brings creative experience in bespoke residential design and project management. Matthew rejoins after completing his Part I qualification in practice with Pod.

This new project will immediately become the greenest building in Belgium. With a semi-public garden at the ground floor and three huge

Personnel

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The Gallagher Group has appointed Lance Taylor as its new Chief Executive Officer to lead the next phase of development at the family-owned firm. He joins from Persimmon, where he was previously Regional Chairman with responsibility for operations across London and the South East, South Coast, Wales, St Modwen/ Persimmon national Joint Venture and a 400-person strong civil engineering and groundworks business. Together, these businesses delivered a turnover in excess of £1bn per annum. Prior to joining Persimmon, Taylor spent over a decade at Rider Levett Bucknall.

Industry Updates

In Brief ASFP encouraged by Government response to Hackitt Review

in Belgium, that shows how even a small residential building can offer its inhabitants and citizens of the neighbourhood an unexpected quality of green spaces and social activities,” Stefano Boeri comments. The L-shaped building is located in a central plot of the masterplan designed by Bernardo Secchi and Paola Viganò, which closes the side of the block facing the river Scheldt and embraces a semiprivate green courtyard within its central section, designed by Belgian Landscape Architect Bas Smets. From the courtyard, through a series of wide steps that also work as an amphitheatre,

you can access the ‘Circularity Center’ where tenants and citizens can fix their bicycles and other domestic objects finding all the tools and space they might need. Public and private space often blend into one another in this project that perfectly integrates architecture with urban and environmental context. The cascading structure of the building gives the possibility to host a small forest that will unfold on three terraces at the fourth, sixth and seventh floors. Botanist Laura Gatti has specifically selected native species and has worked with the concept of a forest and its undergrowth to give every terrace – which the

tenants can access via staircases – a protected and inclusive space that it is obtained by placing trees and shrubs on the edges of the terraces. Palazzo Verde will host 86 trees, 2200 shrubs and perennials for a 428,88m2 green surface. “The whole building has 67 apartments, and it is designed as a grid of 5 x 5m, with the possibility of having six apartments at the building’s peak. The facade’s design has both balconies and loggias and explores the concept of threshold and the limit between interior and exterior,” commented Hana Narvaez, Project Leader at Stefano Boeri Architetti.

Trending on Twitter #FUTUREBUILD2019

“The #WasteZone is back for #Futurebuild2019 with brand-new features. Central to this will be the Circular Economy Hub – a carefully curated exhibition showcasing emerging technologies focused on sustainable waste management.” – @FuturebuildNow “The #ecobuild conference at #Futurebuild2019 is all about taking action to tackle the biggest challenges facing our industry. Ahead

of the event, we’ll be sharing a series of blogs from leading thinkers.” – @FuturebuildNow “STEICO will be pleased to welcome attendees to stand E54 at #Futurebuild2019 to explore our ecological building products, find out more about timber in construction. Head over to the @FuturebuildNow website for further information and our video content.” – @SteicoUK

“Registration for the most valuable event in the built environment is now open – register to attend #Futurebuild2019 and you will have the opportunity to meet over 500 product innovators. And we’re one of them – don’t miss out!” – @PolypipeWMS “We’re delighted to announce that @vaillantuk will be joining us at #Futurebuild2019 in the brand-new #Energy Hub. They’re returning to the event for the first time since 2014.” – @FuturebuildNow

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) broadly welcomes the Government’s response to the Hackitt Review, which accepts the majority of Dame Judith Hackitt’s recommendations. The association also welcomes the announcement of a review of Approved Document B. The ASFP is encouraged that the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) implementation plan states that the Government intends to implement all the recommendations. However, the association has some concerns about the pace of change, with the MHCLG stating its intention only to consult on many aspects of the implementation and not until the spring. The ASFP welcomed the Hackitt Review’s focus on ensuring fire safety is considered early in the design process and the introduction of mandatory sign-off procedures at the crucial gateway points of planning permission, permission to build as well as permission to occupy.

LABC starts 2019 with quality management success

LABC is celebrating with news that 135 of its local authority teams have received their UKASaccredited ISO 9001 certification for quality management in just the first year. Just under 200 teams in total have joined up for the certification process so far, and the remaining teams are expected to gain accredited status in the third phase later this year. An audit began in February with a two-person day audit at LABC offices. This audit continued with a sample of eight authorities (out of 45) before the final audit in May at LABC in Vauxhall. Every aspect of building control is subject to audit from leadership of teams to individual commitment of team members, controls to ensure the smooth running of processes and tasks, training and competency across every service under the public sector building control remit.

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Industry Updates

Studio in Profile Wearing four different hats Here, Michael Barker, Senior Partner at Stephen George + Partners, explains how in one recent project he concurrently played the roles of client, developer, architect and tenant. In this entry, he recounts how he took a successful approach to such a taxing scheme.

Michael Barker joined Stephen George + Partners in 1979 as a year-out student to complete his professional qualifications. After registering as an Architect in 1980, he became an Associate in 1985 and a Partner in 1990. In 2010, Stephen George + Partners became an LLP, and Michael became the Managing Partner focusing on strategic development and maintaining SGP’s forward-looking philosophy. www.stephengeorge.co.uk

s architects, Stephen George + Partners has decades of experience designing offices – we sometimes do this for developers, contractors as their design and build architect and for occupiers. Imagine, then, working for all three simultaneously! This is the situation I found myself in recently when we decided to design and deliver our own new office building in Leicester. Having occupied premises in Leicester city centre for nearly 50 years, the opportunity arose to acquire a site at Grove Park near J21 of the M1, and design and build our own offices.To facilitate this, a group of partners and staff established a pension fund to act as developer and Stephen George + Partners entered into a 15year lease to rent the premises. The pension fundraised the funds and acquired the site.The pension regulations required this to be a legitimate arm’s-length operation with trustees acting in the interests of the pension fund members. Obviously, we needed

an architect, so Stephen George + Partners was appointed to carry out the design and obtain planning approval.They were then novated to the design and build contractor during the construction process.We also had to consult ourselves over a complex set of requirements as tenant on the fit-out. That’s four different hats to wear at the same time and, as you can imagine, it wasn’t without its challenges. Often, the requirements of these different roles within the process conflict with one another and the project proved to be an interesting learning experience.

design aspirations. Taking on the role of developer, however, gave us quite an insight as to the challenges our clients often face. For a start, the development had to deliver value for the pension fund under the pension rules, which immediately set some limits in terms of where we could take the building architecturally. Equally, we couldn’t just design the offices solely for Stephen George + Partners as the tenant; we also had to have a view on it being marketable if the tenant vacated the building at a future date. In other words, it needed to be a sensible, rational, buildable project.

Developer insight

Conflicted contractor

As architects working for a developer, we want to produce great architecture, maximise space, produce a design that will appeal to occupiers and get through the planning process. We also need to design to a budget that is usually quite tight and sometimes quite restrictive for the architectural team’s

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As architects under a standard design and build contract, we work for the contractor who relies on our technical competence, the ability to deliver information to a tight timescale, being flexible in responding to their ideas about alternative solutions and producing a

Industry Updates

Tenant demands Working for the tenant – who was also the architect and, unsurprisingly, very focused on the quality of their working environment – also proved demanding, particularly in regard to cost control. Whilst we went through all the standard procedures during the tenant fit-out – from space planning to meeting facilities, IT needs to coffee cups, the quality of breakout spaces, the finishes in the toilets (always a big issue!), the operation of the plant and the ease of maintenance – we also wanted the new offices to be a showcase for the business and for people to be wowed when they came and visited us; but, of

course, everything costs money, and we had to attempt to stick to our budget. For me, this offered up some really interesting perspectives on the design process.When we’re employed solely as architects, we could be working for either the developer or the tenant. The developer will commit us to a specific budget, but the developer is rarely going to be the occupier of the finished building.The tenant, on the other hand, is always going to want to specify certain things that the developer doesn’t want to pay for (and the tenant doesn’t want to pay for either).Therefore, you need to take both sides into careful consideration and budget accordingly.

Architectural innovation Perhaps our biggest challenge as the architect on the project was agreeing the design in the first place given the number of architects involved. Nonetheless, acting as a developer willing to explore different possibilities, our architects were allowed to have a little more freedom than would normally be expected and led to some exciting design innovation. In our first-floor studio, for instance, we have a vaulted ceiling that’s given us a fantastic space in which to work and is not the kind of space you would normally find in a speculative office development. It is an inspirational place for our employees, clients and visitors, reflecting both our business values and our vision of the future.

Ultimately, the experience has been invigorating and exciting. We have designed and delivered an inspirational place for our employees, clients and visitors, reflecting both our business values and our vision of the future. As architects,

it has given us a much better understanding of the needs of developers, contractors and tenants. The need of the architects to make a profit on this project was probably one thing that was not given enough consideration.

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building that meets all the client’s expectations at the most economical cost. However, this relationship became a little more opaque during the construction of our own offices as the contractor had difficulty understanding that the client and architect were not the same. As the contractor also perceived us as their client, they found it difficult to give instructions to our team on site because they felt they were telling the client what to do. This did lead to issues when our architects commented on proposals put forward by the contractor or their subcontractors – the contractor felt they couldn’t disagree when perhaps they should have done, inevitably costing more money and further discussions down the line as to who was going to pay for it.

Stylus, Old Street, London

All Images: ÂŠMatthew Chisnall

Fact File: Location: 112-116 Old Street Type of project: Extension and refurbishment Client: Coastview Estates Architect: gpad london Property agent: Colliers International & JLL Project manager: RFM

gpad completes stylish Old Street office redevelopment t

Award-winning architect and interior design practice gpad london has completed Stylus, a high-end office redevelopment in the St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conservation area in Old Street. Dating from 1886, the facade is the only original feature retained.

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Planning consultant: Planning Sense Structural engineer: GDC Partnership Quantity surveyor: RFM Main contractor: Construction Management Start on site date: February 2017 Completion date: November 2018 Contract duration: 18 months GIA: 37,000ft2

ENVELOP YOUR BUILDING WITH INNOVATION As one of the largest facade engineering contractors in Northern Europe, Staticus provides design, production and installation services, ensuring high quality every step of the way. Contact us to find out how we can assist you in delivering your next project paulius.gurksnys@staticus.co.uk

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Stylus, Old Street, London

for the tech and media companies which are highly concentrated in the area and require flexible working space. Terrazzo floors flow seamlessly throughout the building creating a unified, elegant look. Large areas of glazing maximise the amount of daylight flowing into the interior. On the west elevation, powder-coated Crittall-style windows emulate the original fixtures. Brick was used as a key material to respect the surroundings and the 19th-century facade. Protruding patterns and a mixture of different colour bricks add detail and texture. Maximising the floorspace was key, and Stylus now comprises six floors of column-free B1 office space. A new fourth floor includes a green roof with views over the vibrant area. Living walls both on the basement floor courtyard and roof

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terrace create a link to the large number of green spaces within proximity and make for pleasant break-out spaces for office workers. Improved amenities in the basement include cycle storage, lockers, showers and changing facilities, provided in line with BCO and council requirements. Architect, Graeme Winestone, says: “This project came about because the client was really interested in the building.The challenge was how to bring it back to life for the busy media and tech community in Old Street, while still respecting the building’s Victorian past.We had the opportunity to put a really creative twist on it.The anachronistic feel of steampunk presented itself as the perfect way to connect the two eras.”

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he 37,000ft2 of new floorspace responds to demand for contemporary office space in the Silicon Roundabout. Echoing the building’s origins as a Victorian gramophone factory, the entrance includes ‘The Dream Machine’, a custommade, steampunk-inspired reception desk. Designed alongside Mamou-Mani Architects, it consists of 3D-printed glowing flutes attached to the salvaged goods lift motor. The entrance and lower floors create a sense of space and set the tone for the rest of the building, which remains sympathetic to its industrial past. Exposed services and black steel beams throughout act as a nod to the building’s history, while the otherwise neat, contemporary style caters

www.gpadlondonltd.com

Stylus, Old Street, London

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Le Cheng Kindergarten, Beijing, China

SECTION VIEW

A new kind of interaction MAD Architects, led by Ma Yansong, has revealed its design for ‘Courtyard Kindergarten’ in Beijing. Located on the site of a traditional siheyuan courtyard that dates back to 1725, MAD’s scheme includes a new building that not only protects the existing buildings but also restores them for use. The design features a dynamic floating roof that surrounds the historical courtyard. While preserving the cultural heritage of the site, it forms a multi-layered urban narrative, where old and new coexist.

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here is a saying in old Beijing when children are naughty: ‘If you go three days without being punished, the roof will cave in,’” says MAD Principal, Ma Yansong. Playing on this, MAD envisions the rooftop of the ‘Courtyard Kindergarten’ as a place full of magic – a playful escape for the children that is a symbol of freedom and endless imagination. Unfolding onto the site with a low and gentle posture, the roof transforms the limited space between the various buildings into a colourful playground that functions as the central place for children to engage in outdoor sports and activities. On the southwest side of the roof, a subtly undulating surface of several small ‘hills’ and ‘plains’ creates a high and low terrain, forming a playful landscape.

Le Cheng Kindergarten, Beijing, China

Fact File: Project: Le Cheng Kindergarten Location: Beijing, China Date: 2017 to 2019 Principal partners in charge: Ma Yansong, Dang Qun and Yosuke Hayano Design team: He Wei, Fu Xiaoyi, Xiao Ying, Chen Hungpin,Yin Jianfeng, Zhang Long, Zhao Meng, Kazushi Miyamoto, Dmitry Seregin, Ma Yue, Huang Jinkun, Ben Yuqiang and Chen Luman Client: Yuecheng Group Executive architect: China Academy of Building Research Interior design: MAD Architects, Supercloud Studio Signage design: 2X4 Beijing Landscape architect: ECOLAND Planning and Design Corporation Facade construction: Beijing Jangho Curtain Wall System Engineering Co. Visualisations: SAN Model photography: CreatAR Images

Below the floating roof, MAD has designed the interior of the kindergarten as an openconcept layout that serves as a teaching space, library, small theatre and gymnasium. The openness of the space offers a free and inclusive atmosphere, and functions as the daily education space for 400 children between the ages of two and five. Positioned adjacent to the old courtyard, the new learning space opens towards the historical buildings.This gives the children alternating views between old and new, deepening their understanding of time and dimension. In turn, the new building has also been realised to respect three, ancient trees on the site. It envelopes them in a way that while preserving their presence, also echoes the existing courtyard space, bringing the outdoors in, and flooding the interior with natural sunlight.

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Blloku Le Cheng Cube, Kindergarten, Tirana, Albania Beijing, China My ideal kindergarten is not a theme park or a place of shelter. It should be objective and real, but go beyond reality and provide some space for the unknown and imagination.

COURTYARD KINDERGARTEN SECTION 1

COURTYARD KINDERGARTEN SECTION 2

In its entirety, the Courtyard Kindergarten reveals several architectural elements – a modern building from the ‘90s and a traditional courtyard from 400 years ago – that initially seem to be conflicting. MAD’s design retains the authenticity of the original buildings while allowing them to coexist with one another, creating a new kind of interaction between them. The openness and richness of the design allow the children to have an objective and true comprehension of the environment that surrounds them. It offers them an understanding of history and place, and the preservation of nature, bringing inclusiveness between the old and new design – one that adds value to the community. The Courtyard Kindergarten is currently under construction. It is expected to be completed and functioning in autumn this year.

www.i-mad.com

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– Ma Yansong, MAD Architects’ Principal

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THE PROVEN LEACH RESISTANT FIRE PROTECTION TREATMENT FOR TIMBER AND SHINGLES ENHANCED PERFORMANCE FOR EXTERIOR TIMBER FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit: www.kopperspc.eu Email: kpc@koppers.eu Call: +44 (0)1628 486644 Fax: +44 (0)1628 476757 Protim Solignum Limited, Fieldhouse Lane Marlow, Buckinghamshire SL7 1LS ™ Protim Solignum Limited trading as Koppers Performance Chemicals. Koppers is a registered Trademark of Koppers Delaware, Inc. Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information contained in this document, Protim Solignum Limited gives no undertaking to that effect and no responsibility can be accepted for reliance on this information. Information will be updated when the need arises. Please ensure you have an up to date copy. All products are produced by independently owned and operated wood processing facilities. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. Koppers Performance Chemicals, Protim Solignum Limited, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 1LS. Visit: www.kopperspc.eu, Email: kpc@koppers.eu, Call: +44 (0)1628 486644, Fax: +44 (0)1628 476757. Registered in England 3037845. © Copyright 2018.

by Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen Manufacturers Of Wood Preservatives Protim Solignum Ltd Marlow, Buckinghamshire

Hospitality

Norwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest outdoor life organisation unveils innovative day trip cabin The Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) has completed the first of a series of unique â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;day trip cabinsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, built to make treks in the Norwegian Mountains more accessible for novice hikers and explorers.

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to facilitate more trips to this stunning location, whilst its unique freeform hexagonal shell appearance and natural Kebony cladding have seen it already become a landmark for adventurers on their journey to discover the beauty of the Norwegian mountains.

he natural landscapes are home to some of the most spectacular views in Europe but have remained largely untapped due to the difficult nature of the hikes. Built to provide a sanctuary for hikers to relax and rest, the Hammerfest Cabin hopes

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The world leader in timber preservation technology

Fire-X

by Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen Manufacturers Of Wood Preservatives Protim Solignum Ltd Marlow, Buckinghamshire

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Hospitality

Kebony proved to be the perfect material to clad the cabin due to resistance to wear and weathering, sustainable credentials and unique appearance. James Dodson at SPINN Arkitekter commented: “We are delighted to see that our ambition to create this innovative sanctuary for adventurers has been realised. The cabin’s unique design perfectly blends with the surrounding area, which was very much helped by how the installation of Kebony worked with the multi-panelled design. We hope that the cabin will continue to be enjoyed and will encourage more people to visit the stunning location in the future.” Mette Valen, Sales Manager Norway at Kebony, added: “Despite the exposed location, Kebony’s resistance to wear and weathering will ensure minimal maintenance is required for the exterior of Hammerfest Cabin. The team at Kebony is thrilled with the material’s contribution to such a fantastic project that occupies one of the most unique and beautiful locations in Norway.”

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Ensuring that the natural landscape and panoramic views were unaffected by the cabin was of utmost importance to architect firm SPINN Arkitekter (Norway) and Format Engineers (UK). Planning for the ambitious design concept began in 2015 when the eggshaped and faceted stone-like appearance was first developed, and the need for a uniquely durable and sustainable timber cladding material was realised. Since then, construction of the cabin has been aided by the support of local companies and the community, who consistently exhibited a fantastic willingness to ensure the project reached its full potential through direct financial contributions, special deductions, free work and lending of tools as well as equipment. Today, the 150ft2 cabin stands as a testament to the design vision of the architects, whilst the decision to use innovative materials like the weather-resistant and sustainable Kebony to clad the panelled facade demonstrates core commitment to protecting both hikers and the natural landscape.The incorporation of a large window into the design also allows for the stunning panoramic views to be enjoyed from the safety and calm of the innovative day cabin development.

www.kebony.com

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Legal & Business

Following the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, the negative spotlight on cladding materials had a major knock-on effect for the construction industry, from builders and sub-contractors to architecture firms. Days after the incident, cladding installed on buildings more than 18m in height was called into question by the Government, leading to significant increases in premiums for Professional Indemnity Insurance. Bryan Banbury, Managing Director of leading independent insurance broker Russell Scanlan, discusses the impact on the insurance industry and advises how companies can plan ahead when renewing policies.

he insurance market changed radically post-Grenfell, particularly with a significant increase in Professional Indemnity Insurance premiums. The focus on cladding meant that insurers began to perceive any tall building as a higher insurance risk. Some of our clients, who had previously found renewing insurance policies straightforward prior Grenfell, discovered their premiums had increased significantly when the time came to renew. The insurance market for architects has proven to be very challenging, not only have premiums increased but insurers have, on occasions

declined to renew policies or imposed exclusions which take essential cover out. Going forward, the best way for businesses to deal with changes to insurance premiums post-Grenfell is good preparation. Everyone with a Professional Indemnity Insurance policy has to fill in a proposal form with key information about the company, and this should be completed as early as possible – it certainly needs to be completed no less than 30 days before renewal. If you’ve made any previous claims, make sure you include a precise summary which states all information clearly, and give yourself plenty of time to answer any questions that arise.

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Professional Indemnity Insurance policies contain a number of exclusions, and it’s vital for businesses to understand what these exclusions mean. Post-Grenfell, companies in the construction industry require policies covering work they are yet to start as well as previously completed projects.This could potentially leave a company in a difficult position if they are unable to find the right cover by the time their current policy runs out. For this reason, it’s important to make sure you have a very early conversation with your broker or insurer to understand how the work you have previously completed sits within the exclusions of a policy. The impact of the Grenfell Tower fire on the insurance market is expected to continue for the foreseeable future, so it’s important to build a good relationship with your broker and/or insurer.This will lead to a shared understanding of the risks and sector trends within an industry and help to achieve the best coverage possible.

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Russell Scanlan’s insurance advice post-Grenfell

Bryan Banbury joined Russell Scanlan in 1988 as an Account Handler for commercial clients before working his way up through the business becoming a Director in 2001 and taking on the ‘top job’ in 2007 after leading the successful MBO. As well as looking after his own clients, Bryan is responsible for the overall management of the business and is also a Director of UNA, the alliance of independent insurance brokers; of which Russell Scanlan is an active member.

www.russellscanlan.com

NATIONAL ACCESS AND SCAFFOLDING CONFEDERATION

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Voice of the Industry At a Westminster Sustainable Building Forum for the launch of PEP, LABC Commercial Director, Martin Taylor, said “significant” changes in Building Regulations often followed disasters but the industry should be more proactive in looking to solve problems

Chartered Engineer Alvaro Enguita-Gonzalez is Head of the BBA Testing Unit in Watford. He has more than 20 years’ experience in the construction industry, covering testing and certification, building design, product manufacturing, surveying and management.

PEP talk

So what does PEP mean in practice?

Assurance of quality and safety are key to building product specifiers, installers and end-users. But how do you know the product being considered matches its published specification? It’s an issue that has become more critical post-Grenfell and one that the British Board of Agrément – the UK-leading building products certification body – had been considering for some time. Its answer, launched last year, was the groundbreaking Product Excellence Programme (PEP). Here Head of the BBA Testing Unit, Alvaro Enguita-Gonzalez, explores the objective of the programme.

EP has one simple aim – to provide additional assurance that products certified by the British Board of Agrément (BBA) continue to match up to their published specification. PEP is an important initiative for the BBA and an equally important development for the market, given the concerns about construction products matching their specifications and formulations. PostGrenfell, it quickly became obvious that consumers wanted more assurance about the quality of building solutions and the need for consistent testing was noted in the Hackitt Report. This shift in mindset

chimed with BBA internal discussions about enhancing our proven audit and inspection service and resonated with responsible manufacturers wanting to reassure clients. The end result is the construction industry’s most rigorous and technically excellent product certification protocol ensuring that, over time, construction products do not undergo any change that affects their performance. Manufacturers have welcomed PEP, not only for setting them apart from competitors but also for providing users with market-leading, independent verification that their products match their production and performance specifications.

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As part of BBA certification, it is mandatory that our management systems auditors visit client manufacturing facilities every six months to ensure that certified products continue to be manufactured in line with the agreed quality plan. To this, PEP introduces additional – and mandatory – annual testing for products which possess fire or structural type characteristics (complexity 1) and three yearly testing for all others (complexity 2). As part of this new process, BBA audit experts randomly select products for testing while onsite and send these to the BBA Product Excellence Test Centre in Watford. Analysis of these randomly selected samples is independent of factory inspections, ensuring complete rigour and impartiality throughout the process. If a product tested does not meet the agreed specifications, it will be subject to immediate further investigation. Companies unable to address the source of failure will have their BBA certificate suspended and/or withdrawn. As mentioned earlier, the sole aim of this initiative is to assure specifiers, designers, architects and contractors that products certified by the BBA continue to match their published specification now and in the future. It does not apply to building solutions certificated by other organisations.

Voice of the Industry Here, it is worth noting what role certification organisations such as the BBA play in the construction industry. The certification process entails examination of all relevant technical, regulatory, manufacturing and approval data to ensure complete compliance with national regulations. Manufacturing plants are also inspected by the BBA every six months and now, under PEP, annual or three yearly random product testing is carried out. It is a highly skilled and technical process. It is also important to note that building solutions can be sold in the UK without product certification, which is discretionary, but for manufacturers of high-performance, well-designed, technically outstanding and safe products, certification gives them invaluable thirdparty, independent verification. The BBA is UKAS-accredited, ensuring its technical competency and impartiality. Another important consideration is that building products cannot be certificated by association. Only the product named on the certificate has passed the assessment. This is important when, for example, specifiers are considering similar products from the same manufacturer. It may be that a product range is produced in five different colours, but it cannot be assumed that all colours are certificated simply because one is; it has to be checked and confirmed.

Conclusion

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The Grenfell tragedy is shaping the future of the construction industry and, in many quarters and without regulatory pressure, changes are being made to address issues it has highlighted. At a Westminster Sustainable Building Forum for the launch of PEP, LABC Commercial Director, Martin Taylor, said “significant” changes in Building Regulations often followed disasters, but the industry should be more proactive in looking to solve problems. PEP is the BBA’s proactive response, helping to deliver further reassurance by consistent product safety testing. Clients’ inclusion in PEP demonstrates their commitment to this ideal and provides a rolling assurance of certified product performance to specifiers, Government, insurers, lenders and customers, demonstrating product integrity on an ongoing basis. It also underlines the BBA’s dedication to raising standards and delivering greater assurance throughout the supply chain through a continuous drive for excellence.

www.bbacerts.co.uk

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In Focus: Building Facades

Aspire Point university accommodation facade in London

The key thing with this particular building was trying to achieve something of solidity and gravitas Russell Clayton, Associate at MJP Architects

Project team Development: Aspire Point Type: Student accommodation Location: Stratford, London Developer: Alumno Developments Construction firm: HG Construction Architect: MJP Architects Facade contractor: Staticus UK Website: www.residences.qmul.ac.uk/college/ qmaccommodation/mileendpg/aspire

Established approximately 20 years ago, Staticus is one of the biggest building facade contractors in Northern Europe, with a factory in Lithuania, an R&D centre in Vienna and offices in Norway, Sweden and London. Staticus was appointed by HG Construction on behalf of Alumno Developments to deliver the building facade for the Aspire Point development – student accommodation for Queen Mary University of London.

he Staticus team was responsible for the design, manufacture and installation of the facade, working closely with MJP Architects on the design. Managing Director of Staticus UK, Paulius Gurksnys, explained: “Staticus specialises in sustainable aluminium glass facades, which is what we used in this development. For this project, we used terracotta tiles as a rainscreen cladding on the unitised panels. “All the materials were prefabricated at our factory in Lithuania and then installed on site by our team. One of the biggest challenges with this project was the transport of the heavy unitised panels with tiles from Lithuania to London by road – I’m very proud that we delivered all the tiles to the site undamaged.” MJP Architects is an award-winning architectural practice, best known for the BBC building in Central London. Student housing

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is the firm’s forte, and the team has worked extensively in Oxford and Cambridge with the colleges and has recently completed several projects in Birmingham and Warwick. Aspire Point was the firm’s first tower design. Russell Clayton, Associate at MJP Architects, commented:“Aspire Point was a long time in gestation. It took us three and a half years to get to site. It was a difficult site on Stratford High Street, keeping the planners happy and delivering something of high quality. “The key thing with this particular building was trying to achieve something of solidity and gravitas. There’s a lot of rather lightweight-looking buildings on Stratford High Street, and for us, the plan was to raise the design bar and produce something that was heavyweight and looked like it was going to stand up for 100 years. The challenge was being able to deliver that with a factory-made lightweight system that could be put up in a reasonable timeframe.

In Focus: Building Facades

any questions I had, or that I had received from the university, students or parents. “I have to say, the Staticus team were the friendliest consultants I’ve ever worked with. We have already recommended the company to colleagues for other projects and would happily work with them again.” HG Construction Ltd is a growing construction company which works in the student accommodation, commercial and residential sectors. Having worked with Staticus before, Construction Director Conor Rice recommended the company for the Aspire Point project. Conor explains:“We have worked with Staticus twice in the past and were impressed with their professionalism, design capabilities, in-house design and manufacturing.When tasked to construct our tallest building to date, we were confident that they were the right company for this project and we changed the facade design completely to make their unitised curtain wall system work. “What sets Staticus apart from its competitors is its in-house capabilities which many other firms would have to sub-contract out, which can create communication difficulties. Their willingness to give access to the design process early on also makes them stand out and makes the whole process much smoother. “Working with the Staticus team has been an absolute joy.They are consummate professionals, technically advanced and I would strongly recommend them to other construction companies.” Staticus is growing its UK presence and is already responsible for the iconic look of buildings in Manchester and London, offering a comprehensive facade engineering service – from conception and design through to manufacture, installation and project management.

Images 01:The Staticus team was responsible for the design, manufacture and installation of the facade 02: Part of the process was a visit to Staticus’ factory in Vilnius, Lithuania, to see drawings and a visual mock-up inspection 03: For this project, Staticus used terracotta tiles as a rainscreen cladding on the unitised panels 04: One of the biggest challenges with this project was the transport of the heavy unitised panels with tiles from Lithuania to London by road 05: All the materials were prefabricated at Staticus’ factory in Lithuania and installed on site by its team

The firm recently won the contracts for three developments in the UK;Two New Bailey in Manchester, Royal Mint Gardens and Tottenham Hale Tower in London.

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“We went through a number of different contractors to try and deliver the project and a number of different schemes for the construction logistics before HG Construction appointed Staticus and we were able to take the project forward. “It was a very positive experience working with Staticus. It was a collaborative effort, exchanging ideas by email and proactively problem-solving as a team. Part of the process was a visit to Staticus’ factory in Vilnius, Lithuania, to see drawings and 3D models the team had designed and to investigate how they would fabricate and deliver the facade.That was a really important part of the process. “Given the opportunity to work with Staticus again I think would be a fantastic experience. They delivered the project on time, the attitude was perfect, they were problem solvers and were always able to come up with solutions in a timely fashion, so I would welcome the opportunity to work with them again and would not hesitate to recommend them to other contractors, architects or developers.” Ron Plunz, Development Manager at Alumno Developments, commented: “The main challenge with student accommodation developments is that the occupants arrive in September, so there is no room for the timescale to be extended. Therefore, what counts for us in terms of contractors and sub-contractors is their ability to deliver on time. What’s also important is, of course, cost and design integrity as well as compliance with regulations. “Working with Staticus and HG Construction was a very refreshing experience because they worked diligently and proactively. I always felt in very safe hands with Staticus – whenever I attended their design workshops the team were very reassuring and were able to give answers to

www.staticus.com

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Building Maintenance & Preservation

Painted faces When it comes to the decoration of exterior building facades, aesthetic appeal must be balanced alongside key issues such as planning guidelines and maintenance requirements. Kathryn Lloyd, Colour Specialist from leading paint manufacturer Crown Paints, explains how the confident use of colour can assist specifiers in creating building designs that stand the test of time.

rom contemporary high-rises to Victorian townhouses and Baroque-inspired public buildings, the architectural landscape of the UK is as varied as it is impressive. The external appearance of individual structures plays a vital role in defining the look and feel of a local area, and whether a new-build or refurbishment project, choosing an appropriate colour scheme is essential. So what exactly should specifiers consider?

Local context When choosing a colour palette for an exterior project, it’s important to understand how the building will fit in with the existing surroundings. Whether the design should contrast or complement will depend greatly on the form and function of the scheme. For example, a building located in a rural area should take inspiration from its natural surroundings and incorporate colours that enhance rather than compete

with the local environment. Similarly, many urban areas will have an existing design theme and planning constraints that help to create a sense of community and identity, and the appearance of the neighbouring buildings should be taken into account when choosing a colour scheme. As well as meeting aesthetic requirements, it’s important that the specified exterior paint product also offers the appropriate levels of protection; and again, this is very much dependent on the local context of a scheme. Properties in coastal or exposed rural areas will require a product that has been specifically developed to protect against weathering and UV damage to prevent colourful facades fading and requiring repeated redecoration. Similarly, buildings located within a high traffic urban footprint will be exposed to greater levels of pollution from both traffic and industry, and this can cause facades to appear dirty quickly. The use of an anti-carbonation coating would, therefore, be recommended.

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Style guide New-build schemes can offer greater design flexibility, the exterior decoration of period properties is often influenced by the need to conserve and complement a specific historical style. We are fortunate here in the UK that many of our towns and cities showcase an attractive mix of architectural designs from Medieval and Tudor properties right through to the Art Deco period and the influence of Post-War Modernism. Choosing a colour scheme appropriate to a specific style can be a challenge but fortunately through the detailed analysis of original paint samples, many manufacturers – such as Crown Paints – have been able to devise a comprehensive colour palette for period properties, allowing modern redecoration programmes to restore traditional buildings to their former glory.

Lessons in light Perhaps the biggest challenge of exterior decoration projects is understanding how natural light affects our perception of colour and form. In the UK, the light that

Building Maintenance & Preservation

In more built-up areas, the use of colour can reduce the mass of a large structure and also add interest, with high-gloss finishes also helping to accentuate features by creating reflections.

Design details Attention to detail at both the specification and application stages is an essential part of creating colour schemes that not only offer an attractive and appropriate solution but also make a positive contribution to the long-term maintenance of a building. Here, collaboration between specifiers and paint manufacturers can be extremely beneficial, and there are many resources available to help. Working with a colour advisory team can help reduce the uncertainty of colour selection and choosing a range of products from the one supplier, such as masonry paint and coatings for exterior wood and metal, can streamline the specification process further and offer even better value. Early

engagement with manufacturers can also provide specifiers with access to greater support on site, either by obtaining samples so that all colour options can be viewed in context or receiving a full survey of climatic, atmospheric and environmental conditions to ensure the most appropriate specification of products.

Colourful views The use of colour on exterior facades can create a lasting impression, making a positive impact on both the users of the individual building and the local community as a whole. Whether inspired by existing architectural heritage or presented with an opportunity to make a unique design statement, colour is a powerful tool that, when used correctly and with confidence, can help specifiers and designers protect and enhance buildings and create a lasting legacy for future generations.

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we receive is classed as cool northern light and, as such, bright colours tend to work best as a feature for doors and windows rather than main elevations. As natural light is more powerful than artificial light, colours on exterior surfaces also tend to appear lighter than they would in an interior setting, so it’s always worth going one or two shades darker to counteract this. It’s also important to remember that textured walls won’t reflect light as much as smooth surfaces so colours will appear darker as a result. The careful consideration of colour shades is also an important factor in influencing a building’s sense of scale. For example, darker shades connote heaviness and lighter shades weightlessness, so choosing a lighter colour for a large structure such as a bridge can help it appear less oppressive. Similarly, the use of darker tones at the bottom of the facade can help ‘anchor’ the structure, with the use of lighter colours at the top helping it to blend in better with the skyline.

www.crownpaintspec.co.uk

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Technical Insight: Roofing

Bermondsey Village

Dr Sarah Peake undertook the BREEAM assessor training in 2014 to grow her expertise on the subject, enabling her to support architects and specifiers further

BREEAM 2018 – what you need to know In this article, FC&A speaks with Dr Sarah Peake, Sustainability Manager at Sika UK and market-leading, single-ply roofing manufacturer Sika Sarnafil, about the latest BREEAM standard updates. BREEAM gets a facelift Most specifiers will be aware of BREEAM, the world-leading sustainability assessment method for infrastructure and buildings. In March 2018, BRE – the organisation behind this world-renowned standard – released the updated BREEAM UK New Construction (NC) guidelines to maintain best practice concerning evolving technology, knowledge and regulations. Getting a building accredited takes time and investment, so it is fair to expect that a client will want the design team and/or specifier to maximise return on investment by maximising the number of credits they can achieve. Therefore, design teams need to be looking at the appropriate guidelines right from project conception, especially as some credits in BREEAM NC 2018 are only achievable at the concept design stage, before planning permission is applied for. Any later and you will already be on the back foot; ultimately, limiting the number of credits that can be achieved.

Knowledge is essential here; there are some significant differences between what is required for BREEAM NC 2014 and BREEAM NC 2018. So, for a start, you need to know which version of BREEAM your project is registered to and then, in turn, what questions to ask manufacturers and what documents/ evidence you need them to supply. With recent changes, there are even more details to be aware of; so working with manufacturers who have the expertise delivers dividends. Although roofing membranes can be considered in many sections of BREEAM, it should be no surprise that, no matter which version of BREEAM you are using, the Materials (MAT) category is where many of the credits for construction products can be gained. However, when comparing this category in the BREEAM NC 2014 technical manual to that of the BREEAM NC 2018 version, there are several significant differences that architects and specifiers will need to be aware of to ensure the accreditation process runs smoothly and results in the desired rating.

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So, what are the biggest differences? In BREEAM NC 2014, section MAT 01 is called ‘Life Cycle Impacts’ and considers the life-cycle assessment (LCA) of a project, looking at the construction materials through their lifespan from raw materials and manufacturing to application, use and disposal. Credits are awarded per element (e.g. roof including coverings) and evidenced via Green Guide ratings and Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) but an EPD points uplift is only available if a Green Guide rating is available. Whereas in BREEAM NC 2018 this section is known as ‘Environmental Impact from Construction Products – Building Life Cycle Assessments (LCA)’ and it covers the LCA of a building using the BREEAM Simplified Building LCA tool, IMPACT or an IMPACT-compliant tool. The credits awarded are affected by the stage that the LCA is conducted at and this is evidenced by EPDs only. In fact, Green Guide ratings are not referenced once in the new 2018 guidelines, which is a monumental shift for manufacturers, architects and specifiers. BREEAM NC 2014’s MAT 02 ‘Hard landscaping and boundary protection’ section has changed to ‘Environmental Impact from Construction Products – Environmental Product Declarations (EPD)’ in BREEAM BC 2018.This section is designed to increase the amount and quality of EPD data available by awarding points to Type III EPDs that have been independently verified and issued according to ISO 14025 and – for construction products – are compliant with either the ISO 21930 standard or EN 15804

Technical Insight: Roofing Through Sarah’s in-depth understanding of the specific nuances of the different versions of BREEAM, Sika Sarnafil has produced BREEAM information packs for both versions of BREEAM NC ensuring that the specifiers and BREEAM assessors the company works with have everything they need presented in an easy-tofollow format (sarnafil.co.uk/hub).

standard. Here, points are collated per product type (e.g. glass, metal, timber); not element (e.g. roof, walls, windows). Also, unlike BREEAM NC 2014 and the Green Guide, it is not a product/systems impact that determines the number of points scored, but rather what type of EPD a product/system has. If the EPD is specific to the product and manufacturer, it will receive more EPD points than a multi-product/ manufacturer EPD. However, as there are subtle nuances (such as the colour, weight, thickness etc.) of products and systems that need to be considered, and while BREEAM assessors are getting used to this change, it may be advisable to check with BRE how many points the EPD for your proposed product/system will score.

The transitional phase

20 Fenchurch Street

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Although project registration to BREEAM NC 2014 stopped on 23rd March 2018, there are reportedly over 4000 buildings registered to the BREEAM 2014 scheme that have not undergone either a design stage assessment or a post-construction assessment. As most new construction projects take several years to reach completion, there will be a transition phase, which is currently expected to last until 2023, where the old (2014) and new (2018) BREEAM standards will be run in tandem allowing projects registered to BREEAM NC 2014 time to reach completion. As a consequence of moving away from the Green Guide, it is expected that the number of product-/manufacturer-specific Green Guide ratings – which are only valid for three years – will significantly decrease over the next few years. This will be due to manufacturers deciding that the return of interest is not sufficient to warrant the significant investment required to acquire new Green Guide ratings. However, BRE has advised that points will still be credited at the final assessment stage even if a product’s rating is no longer valid, provided the material-/ manufacturer-specific Green Guide rating was valid and included in the building’s design stage assessment. With sustainability at the top of the global agenda, there is an ever-growing need for product manufacturers to be more transparent about their products. By doing this, we can help specifiers create developments that are not only useful and aesthetically pleasing but also enhance the wellbeing of the people who live and work in them; while minimising impact and protecting natural resources.

gbr.sika.com

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Glass & Glazing

Flat-roof skylights: are specifiers walking on precarious glass? Despite the serious risks associated with sub-standard products, there are currently no mandatory standards in place to regulate the manufacture and sale of flat-roof skylights in the UK. Justin Seldis, Managing Director at leading provider Sunsquare, explains what this means for specifiers – and what they can do to help make a change.

s an impressive way to bring natural light, air and access to buildings, flat-roof skylights are becoming increasingly common in architectural projects across the UK. The market is following suit, with sales steadily on the up and more products than ever becoming available for specification. But, while this is excellent news for architects looking for more choice and competitive pricing, it’s come at a cost. The stark reality is that the flat-roof skylight industry as it stands is entirely unregulated. The result? Specifiers and end-users are walking on precarious glass, and it’s only a matter of time before the cracks turn into breaks.

The story so far: a self-governing industry

At the moment, there are no mandatory safety, quality or efficiency standards governing the manufacture or supply of flatroof skylights in the UK. The Construction Products Regulation (305/2011/EU) stipulates that CE Marking is a legal requirement for certain types of glass to be sold on the UK market, but it doesn’t cover the completely assembled product. There are rules and regulations pertaining to ‘in-plane’ rooflights – or those made from GRP or plastic – but no harmonised European standard for outof-plane flat-roof skylights. When it comes to installation and performance, Building Regulations (specifically Parts K and L)

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provide some guidance, but it’s not a given that products will comply (and the regs themselves only come into play later in the specification process). In the absence of any official guidelines, manufacturers have a duty of care to adhere to standards of their own. However, not everyone has the same outlook on what this means – and in the world of flat-roof skylights, we’re definitely seeing a sliding scale of responsibility.

How are manufacturers responding? At best, the current situation has prompted individual manufacturers to implement their own product-specific quality assurance methods. The most popular option is to seek bespoke third-party verification of certain claims, from organisations like the BBA (British Board of Agrément) and the BRE (Buildings Research Institute). This kind of testing helps provide customers with some peace of mind, but what it doesn’t do is provide an industrywide benchmark to help architects compare one product against another. For this, what we need to see is a uniform set of standards applying to all flat-roof skylights on the market. Quality assurance leader the BSI (British Standards Institution) has developed a BSI Kitemark accreditation specifically for flat-roof skylights, created to provide a brand agnostic comparison framework and internationally-recognised stamp of quality. However, it’s yet to become commonplace

Glass & Glazing

A question of quality From an operational perspective, the core design considerations of flat-roof skylights are air permeability, weathertightness and wind resistance. In the absence of any independent certification, architects could be specifying products that have an impressive look (and price tag) but fail to perform even at the most basic level. Very simply, they’re leaky, flimsy and they won’t stand up against the weather when it matters most. Even if they’re well-designed, in a market where independent testing isn’t a must-have, the use of quality components isn’t guaranteed. Whether it’s replacing sturdy aluminium frames with wooden upstands or compromising on glass strength to save on costs, cheaply made (often imported) products are providing a false economy, and simply aren’t delivering the durability customers need in their homes and businesses.

Troubling thermal performance Another area that’s been left up to interpretation by the lack of blanket rooflight standards is U-values. At the moment, many manufacturers are getting away with understating these (by focusing on the performance of the glass alone) or misreporting them by incorrectly adding up the U-values of each individual skylight component to provide a wholesystem score. They’re also using the term ‘thermally managed’ to gloss over the fact that a rooflight isn’t fully protected against thermal bridging of cold air from outside its metal frame to the glass inside. Only thermally broken products (which feature in-frame insulating sections or ‘breaks’ to conductivity) are equipped to provide an effective barrier between internal and external temperatures – anything less is just marketing jargon! A skylight with overstated thermal performance ultimately means a colder building, more condensation, higher heating bills and a larger carbon footprint. It could also mean a failure to meet Part L altogether.

Safeguarding customers The biggest concern about unregulated rooflights is the risk they pose to our (and our children’s) safety. Substandard products are literally hanging above our heads in our homes, workplaces and public spaces. They are yet to undergo

any independent safety testing – and from rooflights incorporating exposed glass edges that are vulnerable to breakage, right through to the use of unlaminated glass that won’t stay put if it shatters, there’s plenty of room for error.

What’s next? Until such times as legal regulation is put in place, the onus is on manufacturers to set the standards (and adhere to them). For this, the industry needs cohesion; the only way specifiers and consumers can fairly and confidently choose the right rooflight for their projects is if we’re all using the same quality assurance criteria. Because of this, at Sunsquare we’d like to see all flat-roof skylight manufacturers adopting BSI Kitemark accreditation – proving that their whole product (rather than just the glass) has been tested to destruction to ensure ultimate durability and performance. This would also provide customers with complete peace of mind about the safety, security and thermal properties of their skylights. However, architects also have their own part to play. Specifiers hold the key to the future of the market, and with this in mind, they have the power to demand their flat-roof skylights are independently tested, and meet only the very highest quality, safety and efficiency criteria. After all, where there is demand, the market will soon follow.

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across the industry. In fact, at the time of writing, Sunsquare products were the only flat-roof skylights on the market to hold a BSI Kitemark. At its worst, the lack of regulation in our industry has enabled some rogue (and frankly, dangerous) products to come to market. In a bid to produce skylights faster, cheaper and at larger volumes, there have been cases of manufacturers using it as a loophole to cut corners; supplying stock that simply doesn’t make the grade for quality, efficiency or safety.

www.sunsquare.co.uk

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Building Access, Security Solutions & Safety

Extra safety has been incorporated into an extra care housing development for over-55s, courtesy of GEZE UK.

natural smoke ventilation system which combines automated smoke and heat extraction has been installed into Lawson House – a new independent living facility in Aylesford, Kent. A total of 16 GEZE RWA 110 NT window actuators were installed in pairs throughout the corridors of the three-storey building which is managed by Rapport Housing & Care.These incorporate an electric spindle drive which is coupled with a mechanical locking mechanism. Eight K600 retractable arm drives were installed for the activation of automated smoke shaft doors.The shafts support the ventilation of protected areas in buildings used for multiple occupation. Should fire break out, the smoke vents would activate to expel accumulating heat and smoke efficiently. All the actuators have been connected to 14 THZ emergency power supplies which link into smoke detection devices around the entire development.

Lawson House, which was designed by the Essex office of the Tooley & Foster partnership, was developed for affordable rent with 20 of the 74, one- and two-bedroom apartments made available for military veterans. Willis Architectural was commissioned to install the ventilation and safety system and identified the GEZE RWA 110 NT solution as being ideal for Lawson House’s requirements. Extra care, which is often referred to as assisted living, enables over 55s to remain in their own homes for as long as possible within the community, whilst providing them with a degree of support, tailored to their individual needs. A safe and secure environment is assisted with staff on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week, should an emergency arise.The apartments each have a kitchen, dining room, living room and en-suite accessible wetrooms. They are fitted with a call bell system and have provision for a phone line, terrestrial and satellite television.

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Communal facilities include landscaped gardens, a restaurant with sunroom and terrace, lounge and seating areas including quiet areas, an activity room and a hair salon and therapy room. Said Andy Howland, Sales and Marketing Director for GEZE UK:“It is heartwarming to see good quality social housing being developed for older people in our communities that incorporate great facilities with good practice in respect of safety. “We would like to welcome the residents of Lawson House to their new homes and hope that they will delight in the amenities and services on offer and enjoy the community which will create a sense of extended family.” Jill Stanley, Housing Officer at Lawson House, added:“We are delighted that Lawson House has been so successful since opening its doors in September.The scheme is now full with a waiting list in place, and for those that live here, it has proven to be an incredibly positive move; even life-changing for some.We are looking forward to echoing this in our new similar developments.”

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Extra safety for extra care

www.geze.co.uk

Introducing the New York Glass Partition System Advantages

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DOOR HARDWARE

Futurebuild 2019 Preview

Futurebuild 2019: the challenges for architecture and construction professionals Futurebuild is the leading built environment event for architecture and construction professionals to meet and learn, be inspired and do business. Taking place from 5 to 7th March, the event will focus on exploring and tackling the biggest challenges impacting the industry and will be a unique destination for visitors to gain unrivalled insight and hands-on experience around the latest innovations, products and materials in order to address these challenges.

eveloped in conjunction with renowned, industry-leading partners, Futurebuild will provide over 500 hours of structured learning across an inspiring conference programme and 11 seminar streams – all completely free of charge and CPD-accredited.

Meeting challenges and making commitments Central to Futurebuild is the ecobuild conference, where visitors will be inspired to take action on the most pressing challenges through insights and knowledge sharing from leading experts. In line with the overarching theme of ‘Time For Action’, the conference sessions will be collaborative forums where visitors will develop plans for change and propose actions for a more sustainable future. Futurebuild will be the platform where 13 challenges are tackled, including how

the industry can overcome the housing crisis, how to put health and wellbeing at the heart of building design and how to achieve a truly circular economy.

An immersive experience In addition, over 500 market-leading brands and organisations from across the globe – including RIBA, Bauder, Steico and Smart Systems – will be showcasing their latest innovations and contributing to the extensive knowledge programme. To ensure visitors gain a truly immersive and in-depth experience across all areas of the industry, these exhibitors will be hosted across six curated hubs: Urban Infrastructure, Buildings, Interiors, Materials, Offsite and Energy. Each hub will include unique feature attractions and a concentrated education programme hosted by a relevant sectorspecific authority. They will also host a variety of new and expanded pavilions

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and attractions including the City Walk, Made In Britain, Vision@Futurebuild, the Association of Decentralised Energy (ADE) Pavilion, the Home of the Future by Tufeco, the RIBA Stand designed by Gundry + Ducker, and many more.

New and exclusive features Futurebuild will be bolstered by a range of new and exclusive partnerships and features. As an official UK Government Innovation Partner, Futurebuild will be hosting the Innovation Zone with the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and Innovate UK. At the zone, BEIS will be showcasing the work of the Energy Innovation Programme and demonstrating how it is delivering the Clean Growth Strategy. Focusing on true innovation, it will provide a platform for investment and knowledge exchange across three areas: a dedicated three-day seminar series; an exhibition featuring innovative companies BEIS and Innovative UK has

Futurebuild 2019 Preview

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provided funding to; and a ‘Business Bar’ in collaboration with the Knowledge Transfer Network – providing one-to-one advice and support on accessing funding. New for 2019 is the Knowledge Forum – a dedicated area where industry-leading partners, academia and professional bodies will offer a comprehensive look at the biggest issues facing the built environment. Hosting CPD workshops, the Knowledge Forum will provide useful solutions and guidance for visitors to take back to the office. The Waste Zone will return with new and expanded features, including the new Circular Economy Hub. Curated by Architect, academic and Author Duncan Baker-Brown, the area will take a unique beach hut format and showcase how waste can be a valuable industry resource. In an exclusive sector first, Futurebuild is also partnering with GIGA – a leading organisation driving greater accessibility of international building product certifications via cloud software. This will come to life through a new Futurebuild product directory and a dedicated new area of the event – the mindful MATERIALS Certification Pavilion.

www.futurebuild.co.uk/register

Futurebuild 2019 – launchpad of an exciting new venture

Smart Designer Doors take centre stage at Futurebuild

Closer collaboration between RCM, SPSenvirowall and SPS Facades will see the sister companies jointly exhibiting at Futurebuild 2019 on stand D72. Futurebuild 2019 was chosen as the ideal venue to announce the greater integration between RCM, SPSenvirowall and SPS Facades. All three companies are part of the Benx group. Following on from last year’s successful event, RCM has decided to once again showcase its portfolio of building boards, facades, airtightness solutions and complete through-wall solutions; this time joined by SPSenvirowall and SPS Facades. By working closer together, the three companies will open up a joint portfolio of high-quality innovative products and services meeting the needs of different sectors across the construction industry. Customers will be able to choose from a vast array of products for the building envelope.To celebrate this new and exciting venture, a brand-new shared 50m2 exhibition stand has been specially commissioned.

Smart Architectural Aluminium is to showcase a wide range of products and systems at this year’s Futurebuild on stand B30. At the heart of the company’s stand will be its high-quality, highperformance Designer Door range, as well as a series of innovative displays featuring its Alitherm Heritage, MC Wall and MC 600 ranges. Launched last year, the comprehensive Smart Designer Door range features a wide choice of styles and designs, from the contemporary Modern collection to the Traditional, Cottage and Vintage portfolios, whose designs sit perfectly with more rural properties.The design styles are complemented by a wide range of size, glazing and door furniture options, as well as a broad spectrum of colours and finishes from Smart’s extensive colour palettes. Amongst the range of new products will be an impressive faceted MC Wall and MC 600 display, as well as a screen and doorset to showcase the versatility and capability of the Smart Alitherm Heritage system.

* info@spsenvirowall.co.uk

* sales@smartsystems.co.uk

( 01535 661633 8 www.spsenvirowall.co.uk

( 01934 876100 8 www.smartsystems.co.uk

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The RCI Show Preview

The largest UK event where the entire roofing, cladding and insulation supply chain comes together allowing visitors to compare and source new products, learn from the experts and hear about the important issues currently impacting the market.

aking place from 27 to 28th March at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry, the RCI Show 2019 will be the leading destination for anyone looking for construction products and services including rainwater systems, plant and tools, the latest materials, safety equipment and green roofs plus much more.The event is free to attend, and visitors are encouraged to pre-register via the website. Returning in March, the RCI Show will comprise three key elements: a keynote conference programme from industry leaders, practical CPD seminars and an exhibition of leading suppliers.Vivalda Group Chairman, Peter Johnson, opens the new conference stream highlighting the opportunities and benefits that off-site fabrication offers the construction industry. He will discuss the challenges of

successfully delivering off-site fabrication, supply chain readiness and lessons learned from other market sectors. Day two of the show kicks off with Dusty Gedge from the Green Infrastructure Consultancy discussing the evolution of the green roofing market. Dusty will highlight what factors are driving the market and where the innovations and opportunities lie to increase usage in the UK construction industry. Other conference highlights include an interactive panel debate discussing diversity, inclusion and respect in construction. Eversheds Sutherland will look at the legal fallout from the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety, whilst ITPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Marc van der Voort will look at the implications for architects, specifiers, contractors and installers following the changes to Building Regulations in the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

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The popular RIBA-approved CPD seminars are designed to encourage professional development within the industry. Sessions can be pre-booked by all visitors, and the programme includes content delivered by the BBA, Monier Redland, Marley Alutec and Surespan, and many more. Visitors come to the RCI Show to source new supply chain partners and build new relationships.The 2019 show brings together an impressive number of suppliers, manufacturers and industry-supporting organisations. Many exhibitors run live demonstrations of tools and systems on their stands. Alongside the main exhibition will be a number of feature exhibits to inspire and enthuse visitors. Features include a demo area hosted by Metal Solutions, a UK-leading fabricator of traditional metal roofing systems, cladding systems and components.The Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) Pavilion will host member companies providing services and support to UK contractors, and the Welwyn Tool Group will be holding live demonstrations of hot welding equipment. Online visitor registration is open, the conference and seminar programme sessions are strictly first come, first served so reserving your place is advisable.

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The Roofing, Cladding and Insulation Show 2019

www.rcishow.co.uk

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Schlüter®-SUBSTRATES When specifying substrates, you need a system you can trust. Our Schlüter®-BEKOTEC floor assembly systems and Schlüter®-KERDI-BOARD substrate for walls, offer flexible, easy-to install substrate solutions, suitable for use in commercial and residential installations with tile and stone coverings. Backed up by expert technical whenever, wherever you need it.

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Making the decision to choose Schlüter-Systems even easier. To find out more call 01530 813396 or visit www.schluterspecifier.co.uk

Floors, Walls & Ceilings

A linear drain is the easiest way to show large-format tiles off to best effect.The ability to place these drains at the very edge of the shower space allows designers to create sweeping, uninterrupted expanses of tile from a floor-level shower into the rest of the bathroom.

Designing with drainage in mind

A point drain requires deeper consideration. Instead of one fall, a point drain features four, that drain towards a central point.

A designer’s decision on what drainage to specify will ultimately fall to one of two options: point or linear. Both, so long as they are designed and manufactured well, should be equally as capable of doing their job.

here there are some distinctions, however, is how they impact on the visual coherence of a space, particularly when considered against a backdrop of current design trends. Large-format tiles (i.e. those with an edge greater than 600mm in length) have become incredibly popular over the past few years. It’s easy to see why: large format minimises grout joints, making for fewer visual distractions and easier cleaning.They can also provide the illusion of increased space in a small room and allow for quicker completion of an installation. A linear drain is the easiest way to show large-format tiles off to best effect.The ability to place these drains at the very edge of the shower space allows designers to create sweeping, uninterrupted expanses of tile from a floor-level shower into the rest of the bathroom. Usually featuring only one fall, linear drains support a ‘tile-first’ philosophy, in that they allow the covering material to take centre stage. As the sourcing of the right tile can be a painstaking mission, this flexibility is a considerable weight off the mind.

A point drain requires deeper consideration. Instead of one fall, a point drain features four, that drain towards a central point. The multiple falls mean that smaller tiles offer the simplest solution, hence why mosaics are a popular partner to this drain design. So is there a way to make large-format work for this type of drain? Yes, but with careful consideration. Large-format tiles can’t accommodate a four-, or even two-, way fall in its regular form, therefore, the handling of the tile within the shower space has to be different from the rest of the room. To make the tile work with the falls, the installer will need to consider creating envelope cuts. The way in which these envelope cuts in the tile interact with the grout lines in the rest of the installation is the breaking point between a smart and an incongruous effect. To achieve the most harmonious results, the setting out of the tile should begin with the chief focal points of the room. A point drain, with its central positioning, qualifies as one of these.

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Whether you’re looking for point or linear drainage, Schlüter-Systems has the solutions you need. The Schlüter-KERDILINE and Schlüter-KERDI-DRAIN ranges contain everything from tileable grates for the utmost subtlety, through to statement designer options. All Schlüter-Systems’ drains have accessible traps and excellent flow rates, as well as integrated waterproof collars for quick and secure connection to a bonded waterproof assembly. They also form part of the Schlüter-WETROOM range of products, which provides unrivalled CE-Marked waterproofing and drainage solutions for tile and stone. 8 www.perfectwetroom.co.uk * pr@schluter.co.uk ( 01530

813396

Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Inspirational acoustics for motivational office design A leading global manufacturer of innovative audio technology has opened a new UK HQ in Edinburgh. The company is recognised for its award-winning corporate culture, and its new office interior reflects this ethos with facilities designed to generate a collaborative and vibrant workplace. Heradesign ceiling rafts and baffles from Knauf AMF make a positive contribution to this vision by creating a healthy acoustic environment. Michael Laird Architects designed the fourstorey office which has a variety of highly functional, flexible, inspirational spaces and workplace settings to support creative thinking. Heradesign with its organic wood-wool woven surface fits seamlessly into this contemporary interior, helping to create a motivational place to work. In the large open-plan office spaces, Heradesign ceiling rafts are fixed directly to the soffit, sitting above the exposed services. Open-plan areas can generate intrusive noise. Research shows poor acoustics can

harm productivity and staff morale.The Class A sound absorption of Heradesign helps improve staff wellbeing by effectively reducing all unwanted background noise ensuring staff can concentrate, and that meetings in the pods surrounding the open office spaces remain private. Heradesign ceiling baffles, fitted in three colours and sizes, create a striking design feature in the stairwells, circulation areas, games room and break-out spaces. Sound control is key to making these places work. Optimum

acoustic performance is achieved by varying the distances between the rows of baffles.The baffles ensure any noise from people travelling up and down the stairs or along the corridors does not disturb those using the adjoining open areas for meetings. 8 www.knaufamf.com

* info@knaufamf.co.uk ( 0191

518 8600

Resin bound gravel walkway for Sir Nicholas Winton Memorial Garden

Long Rake Spar was very impressed with the new resin bound decorative gravel walkway that was installed at the historic Sir Nicholas Winton Memorial Garden by Addagrip-approved installer Total Protection.The walkway was completed in May 2017, and Total Protection was responsible for laying Addagrip’s BBA-approved Terrabound product that features specialist aggregates from Long Rake Spar.The colour ‘Trent’ was chosen and applied to a circulardesigned centrepiece adjacent to a pond and wooden bridge.The remainder of construction work was completed in time for the garden to open this summer, and Long Rake Spar was delighted to have been involved in a project to honour such an inspiring figure. * grantex@longrakespar.co.uk

( 01629 636210

8 www.longrakespar.co.uk

One unforgettable day for Designer Contracts Designer Contracts has supported one of the country’s leading children’s charities, ChildLine, by sponsoring its services for one day (3rd December 2018). The leading counselling service charity, provided by the NSPCC, helps thousands of young people – up to the age of 19 – throughout the UK each year, relying on the generosity of the public to continue raising essential funding. By sponsoring ChildLine for one day, Designer Contracts offered vital support to the charity, which requires £30,000 per day to enable it to help the 800 children that may call on a daily basis. * enquiries@designercontracts.com

( 01246 854577

8 www.designercontracts.com

Crown Paints reveals Exterior Colour Book

Crown Paints is continuing its focus on colour with the launch of an Exterior Colour Book as a key aid for specifiers and designers. The Exterior Colour Book has been created by the Crown Paints Colour Service to provide guidance and inspiration for exterior decoration projects. The Colour Book includes details on Sandtex Trade, Crown Paints’ external substrate decoration and protection brand, as well as superior wood protection brand Sadolin. Crown’s Exterior Colour Book provides information about the built environment, covering topics such as historical styles, geology and local materials, regional colours and colour application. 8 www.crownpaintspec.co.uk * info@crownpaintspec.co.uk ( 0330 024 0310

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Glass & Glazing

Selectaglaze thermally enhances 19th-century lodge to 21st-century standards Built at the start of the 19th century, this striking entrance lodge located in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, has morphed into a comfortable living space with the assistance of Selectaglaze secondary glazing. The magnificent Grade II Listed lodge is of brick construction but clad with decorative carved, Renaissance-style panels and painted entirely black. The ornate panels and bargeboards adorned with garlands of fruit, acanthus leaves and scrolls are set off by twisted columns supporting the jettied upper storey. The lodge fell into a state of disrepair a few years ago and required a thorough renovation, including the more recent sympathetic rear extension, before being deemed suitable for inclusion in the rental market. All of the original leaded light windows were kept, but they offered poor insulation

and were unable to retain heat efficiently. To improve the insulation, a bespoke solution was required which would not detract from the historical features; so the Estate Manager, Giles Paddison, contacted Selectaglaze to provide a solution for the thermal inefficiencies. In all, Selectaglaze installed six units from its Series 10 range and one Series 45 single side-hung casement. Both ranges are slimline solutions and ideal for heritage projects, as they introduce minimal sightlines and are designed to be as unobtrusive as possible. This, along with high-performance seals, helped to virtually

Is terracotta the next best thing when it comes to cladding?

eliminate unwanted draughts and provide a more comfortable living space for the tenants. The inclusion of a low emissivity hard coat on the laminate glass reduces the U-value of the window combination to the range 1.7 to 1.9W/m2K. 8 www.selectaglaze.co.uk

* enquiries@selectaglaze.co.uk ( 01727

837271

Timeless revolving entrance for elegant hotel

That’s the view of Paul Richards, MD of Aquarian Cladding, who says he’s seeing a renaissance in demand for this cladding system. Following the Grenfell tragedy, combustible cladding has been banned for all new schools, hospitals, care homes and residential buildings in England and Wales above 18m. It means that alternative cladding solutions are being sought – and terracotta is proving to be a popular choice as a non-combustible solution for high-rise buildings. A 100% natural material composed of clay and fired at high temperatures, terracotta is durable, weather resistant, recyclable and fast and easy to apply. Aquarian Cladding specialises in terracotta and brick cladding systems. “It is incredibly difficult to apply small-format bricks on metal due to tolerances and limited colours,” said Paul.“Pointing is difficult as it is applied between ‘a rock and a hard place’ as the brick tiles typically have low water absorption. We are, therefore, seeing increasing demand for terracotta rainscreen.”

TORMAX has installed a contemporary, three-wing automatic revolving door to the refurbished reception at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and Spa, Chester. Providing a prestigious access solution that blends seamlessly with the 18th-century manor house and the modern 79-bedroom extension wing, the revolving door is powered by the TORMAX 5201 operator, ensuring ongoing safe and reliable access. For a comprehensive solution, a TORMAX 1201 automatic swing door was installed to one side.“A TORMAX revolving entrance combines timeless elegance with a technologically advanced door drive, that delivers ongoing reliability long into the future,” said Simon Roberts, MD for TORMAX UK.“The convenience of a swing pass door ensures a warm welcome for all visitors, including wheelchair users; for example, or those with bulky suitcases.” TORMAX was contracted to manufacture and install the revolving entrance combined with an automatic swing door, giving clear and easy access to the grand reception area.

* info@aquariancladding.co.uk

* sales@tormax.co.uk

( 0808 223 9080 8 www.aquariancladding.co.uk

( 01932 238040 8 www.tormax.co.uk

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Glass & Glazing The CRL Juliette Balcony System makes installation of glass balustrades a simple process, producing a modern, clean finish

The CRL Langle Al-Wall system is ideal to regenerate an existing building, creating a modern impression with a highly durable and long-lasting finish. The innovative rainscreen system ensures safe ventilation of the building and guards against the elements, with a premium coated aluminium that is completely weather-proof.

A new lease of life

Glass is now commonly used in modern architecture and to regenerate older buildings, preserving the materials beneath and providing all-weather protection. Advances in installation technology are making this possible, while not putting installer or user safety at risk. Simon Boocock, MD of CRL Europe, looks at some of the options.

hink of modern architecture and one material is likely to be prevalent: glass. Many iconic new buildings in the UK, if not the world, use glass as part of their external structure. As materials go, not many can compete with glass. It undoubtedly lends an aesthetic appeal, creating a high-quality look that is simply not possible with other materials, yet it is also a versatile solution in terms of practicality. In the same way that people judge a book by its cover, buildings are also often judged by their exteriors, and this is where first impressions of the business within can be won or lost. The facade of the building is the first thing you see before entering a building after all. The design of the modern facade and the material chosen, therefore, plays an important role in the appearance of the organisation too. Glass has the advantage of being hardwearing and weather-proof – two qualities that are crucial for external cladding – and blends harmoniously with materials such as brick and concrete. These qualities make glass the material of choice in modern architecture, for building exteriors that tick all the boxes in terms of both style and function. And it is these same qualities that are leading to glass being specified as a complete wraparound for regeneration projects, with the material being used

to bring new life to older buildings, preserving materials beneath and providing all-weather protection. In modern architecture, the glass curtain wall is typically a thin wall glass, framed with aluminium or steel, which is mounted on the external structure. This provides protection against air, water and wind. Often, the simplest solutions are the most effective and that is certainly the case when it comes to installing glass facades. Providing a safe installation method, a clip system joins individual glass panels and securely fixes them in place, completely eradicating the need for glass cut-outs. The result with this method is a modern impression, with the original building facade protected from the elements. While a durable and longlasting finish is achieved, there is also good ventilation of the building that ensures it’s safe for occupants. For much the same reasons, glass is also being chosen for exterior balconies and balustrades. Architects often opt for glass facades on houses or buildings to enable views to be enjoyed and to improve aesthetics. Alongside full balustrades, Juliette balconies are another way of adding glass to facades. As they are often used with French doors, Juliette balconies increase ventilation and create a greater sense of space while providing a safety barrier by means of balustrades or railings.

Systems that need to be fitted from the outside in will often require scaffolding, which adds to the time and expense of a project, and are overall much trickier to install than systems that can be fitted from an internal position. Posing similar issues, traditional wetfit balcony systems need to be held securely in place, usually with cement, to ensure a tight fit, which can be messy too. Often, the architectural hardware used for installation is heavy and cumbersome, and can even compromise the minimal aesthetic of the glass if it’s poorly designed. The best solution is one that simplifies the fitting and maintenance process, reduces installation times and provides more than the required amount of safety and security for both the installer and the end-user. A dry-glazed railing system is a good example of a hassle-free alternative to working with cement and scaffolding as it can be installed from the safe side of the balcony or balustrade, cuts installation times and provides safety and security for all. Such systems tap into the trend for frameless glass on the exterior of buildings and result in an improved aesthetic when compared to standard vertical posts as a minimal amount of hardware is visible. 8 www.crlaurence.co.uk * crl@crlaurence.co.uk ( 01706

863600

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Building Elements

Never run out of hot water with Rinnai’s 11i multipoint water heaters Rinnai’s multipoint continuous flow ErP A-rated gasfired 11i water heater units are the perfect antidote to more traditional storage systems. Proven to deliver high volumes of hot water at any time of the day, the high-performance 11i ensures user comfort and safety with 100% accurate water temperature control. These energy-efficient, low-NOx units, ideal for domestic and light commercial sites, are neat and compact, with not a tank in sight. Internally wall-mounted, the multipoint Rinnai 11i model measures 675 x 370 x 134mm and weighs just 16kg with a gas consumption range between 6.10 and 21.60kW, and an 11m maximum flow. Users of the multipoint 11i water heaters can rest assured that there is no fluctuation in water temperatures, even if; for example, the tap is turned on in the kitchen at exactly the same time as the shower is running in the bathroom – the temperature will still remain constant.

Whilst small, the Multipoint Rinnai 11i is tough with a robust heat exchanger, in-built frost protection and user-friendly digital controls. Ideally placed to replace cumbersome and outdated stored water heaters or multipoint water heaters, these low-NOx continuous flow units are proven to be more energyefficient and are the installer and user’s water heating system of choice. 8 www.rinnaiuk.com * info@rinnaiuk.com ( 01928

531870

The world leader in timber preservation technology

Protim

TRIED AND TRUSTED METHOD OF PRESERVING TIMBER AGAINST FUNGAL DECAY AND INSECT ATTACK, FOR INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL TIMBER THE ORIGINAL WOOD PRESERVATIVE AND STILL THE BEST

FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit: www.kopperspc.eu Email: kpc@koppers.eu Call: +44 (0)1628 486644 Fax: +44 (0)1628 476757 Protim Solignum Limited, Fieldhouse Lane Marlow, Buckinghamshire SL7 1LS ™ Protim Solignum Limited trading as Koppers Performance Chemicals. Koppers is a registered Trademark of Koppers Delaware, Inc. Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information contained in this document, Protim Solignum Limited gives no undertaking to that effect and no responsibility can be accepted for reliance on this information. Information will be updated when the need arises. Please ensure you have an up to date copy. All products are produced by independently owned and operated wood processing facilities. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. Koppers Performance Chemicals, Protim Solignum Limited, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 1LS. Visit: www.kopperspc.eu, Email: kpc@koppers.eu, Call: +44 (0)1628 486644, Fax: +44 (0)1628 476757. Registered in England 3037845. © Copyright 2018.

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by Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen Manufacturers Of Wood Preservatives Protim Solignum Ltd Marlow, Buckinghamshire

Building Elements Welsh Slate’s Cambrian slate wins international recognition

Office Principles opens Manchester office

Cambrian-age Welsh slate, which is produced at Welsh Slate’s Penrhyn quarry, has become the first slate in the world to be designated a Global Heritage Stone Resource (GHSR). Its designation by the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS), which represents the national geological societies of 121 countries, recognises its importance to the architectural heritage of the many countries in which it has been used in the past and continues to be used today. It easily met the prestigious GHSR criteria of having a cultural history encompassing a significant period, been utilised in significant works and widely used in numerous countries. Cambrian Welsh slate has been quarried in Wales for almost 2000 years (its first use being recorded in Roman times), has been utilised on major heritage projects, and been used throughout the world, particularly Australia, New Zealand, America, the West Indies, Europe and even Hawaii.

Office Principles has taken space in Manchester, formalising the expansion of the company’s geographical reach and reflecting its intention to grow its Northern portfolio further.The office, on Manchester’s Oxford Street, is headed by Project Director,Andrew Trevett, and supported by a full team of interior designers, technical surveyors, project managers and administration staff. Office Principles has undertaken significant contracts in the Midlands and the North in recent years and is keen to put down roots in a central-northern location. Joint Managing Director, Cyril Parsons, explains why Manchester was a natural choice:“Manchester’s commercial property market is booming, with some big-name companies acquiring office space in the city centre in the last 12 months alone.The emergence of a number of new Grade A office developments has positioned the city as possibly the most significant business location outside of the capital, and there is a strong development pipeline which promises more of the same.”

* enquiries@welshslate.com

* info@officeprinciples.com

( 01248 600656 8 www.welshslate.com

( 0118 9131811 8 www.officeprinciples.com

Advanced panels recognised with FM Approvals Diamond Mark

Advanced selected to protect premier shopping destination in Mumbai

Advanced’s Axis EN and MxPro 5 fire panels have been certified by FM Approvals to the EN 54 Standard, becoming the first UKmanufactured fire alarm control panels to attain this accreditation. The FM Approved Diamond is issued by FM Approvals for products that adhere to the highest property conservation standards in quality, technical integrity and performance. It is a mark of quality and performance that is relevant for any engineer, specifier or building owner wishing to install fire systems that meet the highest property conservation standards. Advanced’s products lead the market in performance, quality and ease of use, and the company has been at the forefront of standards leadership for decades. As well as holding FM Approval for EN 54 Parts 2 & 4, the Axis EN and MxPro 5 fire panels were among the first to obtain EN54 Part 13 from VdS.

Industry-leading fire panels from global systems leader Advanced have been installed in one of India’s premier shopping destinations in Mumbai. Inorbit has emerged as one of Mumbai’s popular shopping destinations with its diverse and exceptional offerings in food, fashion and entertainment. Over the last 15 years of being in business, the mall has gained a huge fan following because of the unique shopping experience one can enjoy here.The Axis EN system, which has recently received globally-recognised FM APPROVED accreditation, was installed by Advanced partners, Abhay Fire and Security Engineers, who were tasked with replacing the entire system including full reconfiguration, programming and commissioning.The installation, covering the entire shopping mall including all public areas and retail units, comprises two networked eight-loop panels linked to the building management system and exhaust and pressurisation fans for the building’s smoke control function.

* sales@advancedco.com

( 01670 707111 8 www.advancedco.com

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Building Elements

Success for Powdertech Corby at Surface Design Show 2019 Powdertech Corby recently exhibited Evolution, the company’s innovative powder coating system, at the Surface Design Show 2019 in London. The show has been running annually for over 10 years, providing architects, specifiers and designers with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the latest architectural surface materials. “This is the only UK event focused entirely on exterior and interior surface treatments,” said Richard Besant, Powdertech’s Director.“As such, it provides an unrivalled opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge from the developers of the many and fabulous finishes on show and to discuss trends in surface coatings with likeminded people from all areas of the industry.” Powdertech displayed panels and swatches of the Evolution range which showcases fascinating metal patinas, recreated as powder coatings in 72 different shades.Two shades

from the Evolution range were chosen to feature in the show’s Surface Spotlight area; the theme for this year’s display being ‘One of a Kind’, aiming to inspire a kinder approach to design.The collection was curated in collaboration by trend expert Sally Angharad and trend, colour and material forecast agency; Colour Hive. Evolution allows designers to try something unusual and unique to their project once applied, safe in the knowledge that the system meets all British and European standards and

performed outstandingly well in a series of rigorous tests carried out independently by PRA World. Evolution is a highly reliable metal finishing system for aluminium, galvanised and mild steel and carries the Powdertech guarantee of up to 25 years for colour, gloss and adhesion. 8 www.powdertechcorby.co.uk * pcl@powdertech.co.uk ( 01536

400890

Offsite Solutions awarded sixth bathroom pod contract for Crown Student Living Three join sales team at Vortice

The Vortice sales team has welcomed three new recruits; Colin McNally, formerly involved in passive fire protection and underfloor heating, Darren Clare, who has a background in ventilation, and Gary Williams, who previously worked in the wholesale sector. Offering a complete project management approach, the Vortice sales team works closely with all its customers to offer technical help and advice and the internal sales team then ensures that the products are delivered at the right stage of the project.The new team enhances the ongoing advice and support by the head office technical team which can produce a fully compliant design and quotation service. 8 www.vortice.ltd.uk * technical@vortice.ltd.uk ( 01283 492949

Offsite Solutions has been awarded a £1.6m contract for Crown Student Living. Crown Place in Swansea will be Offsite Solutions’ sixth and largest student accommodation scheme for the developer and brings the total value of its projects for Crown Student Living to £6.8m. Offsite Solutions will manufacture 645 GRP composite bathroom pods working with Midas which is the main contractor for the £40m scheme on Swansea’s waterfront. All the bedrooms in the nine-storey development will be en-suite and furnished to a high standard. Crown Place will have shower rooms with a tile-effect wall finish, a large mirror, wall cabinet, contemporary dark bamboo-style flooring, and speciallydesigned access for ease of maintenance. * info@offsitesolutions.com

( 01278 780807

8 www.offsitesolutions.com

McAvoy awarded BOPAS accreditation for new modular housing solution The McAvoy Group has received accreditation from BOPAS, the Buildoffsite Property Assurance Scheme, for its new modular housing solution.This certification is the industry benchmark for quality and durability. It provides invaluable assurance to lenders that the McAvoy steel-framed building system will deliver consistent performance for at least 60 years.The McAvoy off-site housing system for multi-storey apartments, detached, semi-detached and terraced homes was assessed as part of the stringent BOPAS accreditation process.This looked at best practice in key performance areas of each stage of project development – from concept and design to manufacture and construction. * info@mcavoygroup.com

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( 0288 774 0372

8 www.mcavoygroup.com/housing

Building Elements

For Ronseal, BBA Certification was crucial because it gives end-users additional reassurance that the Trade Range, which achieves quicker drying times and a longer lasting finish, has passed verified, independent testing

BBA’s Ronseal testing confirms it does what it says on the tin Highly skilled test experts at the British Board of Agrément proved their versatility when a marketleading manufacturer of wood care products submitted a range for BBA Certification.

he Ronseal Trade range – which includes 10 Year Woodstain, Ultra Tough Floor Varnish and Crystal Clear Exterior Varnish – was dispatched to the BBA’s hi-tech test centre in Watford, Hertfordshire, to be put through its paces in exhaustive testing conducted over a number of months. BBA Senior Test Technician David Durrant, explained that each of the 10 products

required precise assessment against a variety of standards and performance criteria and, while the number of tests carried out on each product wasn’t unusual, the sheer volume conducted across the entire product range required a versatile and hands-on approach. “At one point, we had more than 400 panels of Ronseal-coated substrate material being tested,” said Mr Durrant.“Our test technicians had to apply the product to each

The Ronseal Trade range – which includes 10 Year Woodstain, Ultra Tough Floor Varnish and Crystal Clear Exterior Varnish – was dispatched to the BBA’s hi-tech test centre in Watford, Hertfordshire, to be put through its paces in exhaustive testing

substrate (hardwood, softwood, steel etc.) in full accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, precisely measuring the exact grammes of paint to be applied at the right thickness and temperature. Many finishes required one or more coats and most days we had racks of substrates drying and two or three people dedicated to painting more. Almost every member of the team was involved in preparing the substrates at one point or another. It was quite an undertaking.” For Ronseal, BBA Certification was crucial because it gives end-users additional reassurance that the Trade Range, which achieves quicker drying times and a longer lasting finish, has passed verified, independent testing and delivered on Ronseal’s ‘does exactly what it says on the tin’ promise. “BBA Certification is an important part of our ongoing trade strategy,” said Ronseal Senior Product Manager, Chris Morgan.“Its major benefit is that our claims are tested and verified by an independent body, delivering the trust and reassurance our trade customers seek when picking a product.Their reputation and quality of work are critical for ongoing success, and Ronseal is the only woodcare brand to have BBA Certification across its full range of products. All BBA Certificated products carry the BBA logo and reference on the back of packs.” The Trade Range was subjected to a wide range of tests pertinent to each product, including UV ageing to assess fading and colour changes; fungal resistance, abrasion and scrubbability, extensibility, tensile strength, cross-cutting, resistance to hard-body impacts, water vapour permeability, gloss, hardness, ease of overcoating, slip resistance etc. “This was a large and challenging project due to the sheer number of test samples that had to be prepared, and it drew on the expertise of a multitude of people,” said Mr Durrant, who led the work.“We also had quite a tight deadline to work to.The testing team was highly diligent in meeting the requirements of this deadline while also ensuring the work was carried out with the precision and due diligence that is expected of the BBA.”

8 www.bbacerts.co.uk

* clientservices@bbacerts.co.uk ( 01923

665300

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