FC&A January 2019 by Red Hut Media Ltd

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January 19

Issue 107

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A Catalyst for Investment

Sustainability – Lost in Brexit Labyrinth?

Important Dates for Your Diary

The practice of the 'queen of curves',

Will sustainability be left behind

FC&A kicks-off 2019 with two

ZHA, stuns with futuristic design in

amidst qualms over UK's departure

noteworthy construction- and design-

Nanjing CBD Hexi New Town

from the EU?

focused trade show previews

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Front cover: ZHA's Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre reflects the city’s traditions and culture. See page 14.

Magazine January 2019

Welcome

to Future Constructor & Architect...

new year; that old cliche of new beginnings, resolutions and, inevitably, change. However, 2019 does indeed mark a year of substantial, inescapable change for the nation; a move that will considerably alter the construction industry. With Brexit’s supposed divorce from the European Union just three months away, concerns surrounding exports, imports, immigration and job security are hard-hitting qualms for UK citizens. With so much ambivalence swarming the construction and architectural trades, such anxieties have left certain aspects of the realm in the darkness. Sustainability is just one division that has been hiding in the shadows of late.With the EU leading the way with sustainability laws, it’s uncertain where sustainable development will stand in the future. FC&A talked to Michael Slater, Regional Operational Manager at Western Thermal, about the inclusivity of sustainability in proposed Brexit plans. Slater enlightens that the UK Government has stated that new environmental laws post-Brexit will secure the strength of current EU laws concerning sustainability and ensure they are “not weakened”.To read up on Slater’s full account on sustainability after Brexit, turn to page 26. Pessimism and uncertainty over, the new year isn’t all doom and gloom! January marks a brandnew start to trade show season. Kicking us off for 2019, ARCHITECT@WORK returns this year with a new location to unveil the latest innovations and thought-leadership seminars for the architectural world. Taking place from 30th to 31st January at London’s Old Truman Brewery, this year’s show marks the seventh edition of the annual event. Turn to page 40 for a line-up of exhibitors and seminars. Meanwhile, on page 38, FC&A brings you a stellar programme for this year’s Surface Design Show. Returning to the Business Design Centre, 2019’s spotlight shines on the public realm and the workplace. 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.

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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.

26 Legal & Business:

Much attention has been drawn to immigration, exports, imports and the economy on the run-up to Brexit’s estimated departure date, however, sustainability in construction postBrexit has been hiding in the shadows in recent months. Here, Michael Slater of Western Thermal shines some light.

28 Voice of the Industry:

The BBA’s Claire Curtis-Thomas talks to FC&A about the BBA and LABC’s recent venture, 100% Hackitt. Here, she explains why the initiative is important and how the industry can support the enterprise.

Features 22 Build Focus:

House-Building: New for 2019, FC&A brings you Build Focus, a monthly amalgamation of expert commentary from all corners of the construction industry.This month’s focus, house-building, centres on biodiversity, daylighting, healthy homes and an NHBC recognition for one body.

30 Fenestration: Mullions, Glazing & Frames:

Nicolas Tye returns this month exploring how glazing installations can improve energy efficiency.

Portfolio 32 Coatings,

Finishes & Stains:

James Ormerod, Managing Director at Aliva UK, digs into the architectural finishes company’s arsenal of successful projects that have made the best use of insulated render and explains why an insulated render approach is well worth considering.

34 HVAC & IAQ:

Convinced underfloor heating isn’t only suitable for high-end projects, ForceDry’s Managing Director, RossVerity, carried out a study to compare the costs of a radiator-based system with underfloor heating. Here, he unveils the findings.

14 Nanjing International

Youth Cultural Centre, Zaha Hadid Architects: Acting as a catalyst for future investment in Nanjing’s new central business district (CBD), Hexi New Town, Zaha Hadid Architects’ show-stopping design for Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre boasts all the charms of a Hadid design; geometric lines, fluid forms and, of course, graceful curves.

36 Facades, Cladding & Rainscreen:

Jason Hughes, MD at Imperial Bricks, explains what’s behind the growing popularity of brick slip solutions. Using a residential project in Brixton as an example, Hughes explains why more and more specifiers are turning to brick slips.

38 Surface Design Show Preview:

Discover the latest offerings from the interior and exterior surface material realms at the Surface Design Show.

40 ARCHITECT@WORK Preview:

This year’s show has made a move to one of London’s most vibrant and architecturally significant districts, Shoreditch.

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Industry Updates

NEWS

In Brief

Brexit uncertainty impacts architects’ workload and confidence In October 2018, the RIBA Future Trends Workload Index increased slightly to +11, up from +7 in September, but for the second consecutive quarter, the value of work in progress declined – indicating the impact of ongoing Brexit uncertainty. The North of England regained optimism after dipping significantly last month with an increase from +12 to +25. London remains the most cautious at +3, but this is up slightly from October’s figure of +1. The Midlands and East Anglia returned a balance figure of +9, lagging slightly behind the South of England (at +12) and Wales and the West (at +13). The biggest disparity remains between the North of England and London.

Wates & MEPC announce recruitment to help tackle homelessness

Wates Construction, the contractor delivering MEPC’s Wellington Place in Leeds, is set to grow its team on site at the flagship commercial development with the rollout of a pilot employment scheme to help tackle homelessness. The announcement follows the launch of Wates and MEPC’s joint employment initiative at Wellington Place. This has seen the two organisations collaborate with Engage Leeds to provide employment for some of society’s most vulnerable and atrisk individuals. Earlier this year, the Wates team welcomed two new recruits to the site team through Engage Leeds and is now offering full-time site-based work to a third individual who has no permanent abode or who is at risk of losing their home. Wates Construction is currently on site building the latest phase of MEPC’s Wellington Place, which includes building seven and eight.

All images: ©Ryan Wicks, Ryan Wicks Photography

FC&A rounds up the latest industry news

Stephen George + Partners completes stylish office extension for Herman Miller Stephen George + Partners LLP (SGP) has completed a stylish £2.5m open-plan office extension to the Herman Miller Portal Mill site at Melksham, Wiltshire. SGP’s design created 1500m2 of practical open-plan office space and staff amenities.

Submit your news and comments to: editor@mixedmediainfo.com @fcamagazine

Consolidating its UK operations into one flagship building, office furniture designer and manufacturer Herman Miller chose SGP for this prestigious project after successfully working with the AJ100 architectural on the original office building. Herman Miller’s brief for the original scheme was to celebrate the main public and office building as an architectural focal point, called ‘the cam’, with the logistics and production building providing a simple but clean backdrop. SGP’s focus for this second phase was a seamless extension to office facilities within the existing building, fully realising the architectural concept with the office functions wrapped around the ‘design street.’ This opens up internal and external views and creates dynamic workspaces that promote staff wellbeing and collaboration.

Personnel Budding architects appointed at Brewster Bye

New starters for growing national consultancy

Two budding architects have joined Leeds-based Brewster Bye Architects. Rebecca Smith and Maamon Al-Dewali are both Part 1 Architectural Assistants, who have a Bachelor of Arts (BA Hons) in Architecture from the University of Huddersfield. The duo will work at Brewster Bye for a year before returning to university for another two years to complete a Master’s (MA) Degree in Architecture. Both Rebecca and Maamon are talented young professionals with a keen interest in art and design. At Brewster Bye, they will be involved with carrying out feasibility studies and creating 3D modelling.

TODD Architects is delighted to announce a posse of internal team promotions, creating seven new associates with specialisms across a range of sectors, including office, residential, healthcare, education, retail and aviation. Says MD, Paul Crowe:“These well-deserved promotions are part of our continued succession and business development plan, rewarding talent and experience and creating career opportunities to keep those skills within the practice.These promotions will help us deliver our collective aim to empower future leadership by investing in our team.”

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NBS appoints Lee Jones

NBS has appointed Lee Jones to head up its product information team. Formerly European BIM Manager at Ideal Standard, Lee joins the business as it continues to expand its team following a significant £31.8m investment in June of this year. Lee will oversee the development and delivery of NBS tools including NBS National BIM Library, NBS Plus and RIBA Product Selector and work closely with NBS’ manufacturer customer base in the UK, Canada and Australia. Whilst at Ideal Standard, Lee developed his specialist skillset that saw the business become recognised internationally as leaders for its manufactureroriginated BIM content.

Industry Updates

Explains Marcus MaddenSmith, Partner at SGP: “The clean design echoes the high-quality design values of Herman Miller itself, creating a beautiful and spacious working environment that combines practicality with staff wellbeing.The architecture successfully captures the aspirations whilst also providing a functional production facility.” SGP’s design created a complete extension to both the west wing and south wing of the

existing core. In the south wing, the addition of a new floor above an existing workshop provides bright, open-plan office space which connects through to a second open-plan office area. Along the west wing, five new meeting rooms have been added, with another open-plan office area and a conference room. Although composite panel walls divide the core areas from the warehouse, the demolition of internal walls

Trending on Twitter SURFACE DESIGN SHOW – #SDS19

“We are proud to be sponsors of @surfacethinking’s Opening Night Debate from 6.30pm, 5th Feb in association with @RIBA & @nlalondon. This year’s topic is ‘Factory-made housing: is this the solution to building better homes long term?’” – @BruceshawLLP “#throwbackthursday to last year’s Surface Design Show. We are excited for this year’s event...who is

going to be there? If you are, stop by and see us... stand 202! We are looking forward to unveiling our stand. It’s going to be a good one!” – @blueprintceram “And the prep starts again! Our stand number is 256 this year, come and see us and have a look at our new glass samples. #SDS19 #ArchitecturalGlass #BespokeGlass #InteriorDesign” – @DaedalianGlass

overlooking the doubleheight atrium has created a continuous and open core with office spaces wrapping around an internal ‘design street’. On the ground floor, extending the internal core on the west wing has provided space for storage facilities and larger locker and changing areas. The refurbishment of the existing locker room has created additional male toilet facilities. Externally, the redesign of existing facilities has allowed an additional 109 car parking spaces for the extra staff and visitors. Concludes MaddenSmith: “The client wanted a seamless addition to their existing building, making the interior and exterior changes whilst the building was in full operation. Our design had to take into consideration which areas would be occupied by the client, and challenging us to create an unabridged, practical design within limited spaces. It also led to close collaboration between the client and the construction team in the planning of the phasing of the works.”

“Only three weeks to go until the grand unveiling of our new Greenlam product range. Washroom, locker, door and Core Collection ranges will all be relaunched along with some exciting new textures. We’re also exhibiting at the Surface Design Show, 5th to 7th February. #SDS19 #FSC” – @Timbmet “#SDS19 provides the opportunity to engage with a hard-to-reach & targeted audience. 5016 visitors attended SDS18 with 72% coming from the A+D sector & 37% visiting no other A+D event.” – @antonyholter

In Brief RIBA, CIH, LGA and RTPI launch programme

The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) and Local Government Association (LGA) have launched Future Place, a joint two-phase initiative to recognise, reward and encourage high-quality place-making in England. Phase one will highlight the vital role that local planning authorities play in creating great places to live and work by celebrating best practice examples and the potential of place-making in England.

DHF releases new Best Practice Guide

DHF (Door & Hardware Federation) has released a new Best Practice Guide for the locks and building hardware industry covering the British Standard for mechanically operated push-button locksets (BS 8607:2014 + A1:2016).The standard sets out the requirements and test methods for durability, strength and also functionality. Classification of the mechanically operated push-button locksets is in five grades. Products tested to BS 8607 incorporate specific performance grades from BS EN 12209 for mechanically operated locks, latches and locking plates, and also requirements of BS EN 1906, BS 3621, PAS 24 and for the overriding cylinder, where applicable, BS EN 1303.

RIBA reveals 2018 business trends report

The RIBA has revealed its annual summary of trends in the architecture profession and construction sector.The RIBA’s annual Business Benchmarking survey provides data on architects’ profit and turnover, salaries and identifies global growth areas for the export of UK architecture expertise. Key trends in 2018 (compared to 2017) are: the value of international work has increased to £513m (from £498m); Asia (£140m) has overtaken the Middle East (£104m) as the most profitable source of work for UK-based architects; EU work has increased to £118m (from £108m) – making it the second largest source of international work; and salaries have increased ahead of inflation suggesting practices are working hard to retain their staff. Since the survey in 2012, the number of RIBA Chartered Practices has increased by 600.

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Industry Updates

Architect in Profile

Jonathan Thorns has been with BE Design for two years. He plays an active role in the education of young people in architecture and is Vice President of the Lincolnshire Society of Architects, Guest Lecturer at the University of Lincoln and member of the RIBA East Midlands Education Group.

Thorns’ most recognisable project to date is the Indoor Skydiving Centre at the NEC in Birmingham for Bear Grylls

Jonathan Thorns is BE Design’s Principal Architect

www.bedesign.co.uk

Had you always wanted to pursue a career in architecture? Absolutely, as far back as I can remember it was something I wanted to do and I never really considered any other career path. Even when I played with LEGO as a young boy, I never followed what was on the box and made my own designs, choosing a more creative path. I spent a lot of my free time drawing and had an affinity for art and design at school, especially as it was a subject I truly excelled at. I always had architecture in mind when deciding which subjects to take at school. What has been your greatest influence and source of inspiration? One of the first things I studied during my GCSEs was Frank Lloyd Wright’s ‘Fallingwater’. It’s a building that will always be special to me as it really affirmed the fact that I wanted to pursue a career in architecture. I also get a lot of inspiration from works by Lebbeus Woods and the

What has been your most notable project to date? My most recognisable project to date would be the Indoor Skydiving Centre at the NEC in Birmingham for Bear Grylls. Having such a recognisable name attached to the project is great, but it was also a brilliant, if somewhat challenging, project to work on. It is important to ensure that the architectural elements of any project blend well with the engineering ones, but for this particular project we had a lot of mechanical elements and safety needs for the skydiving equipment to consider too. How do you approach your projects? Working in a multi-disciplinary practice – alongside civil and structural engineers – means we naturally have a very collaborative approach to our projects. We work methodically through all the elements, looking at it from a holistic perspective. All of our projects are produced in line with BIM requirements – which allows the collaborative process to move forward much more smoothly. Working methodically, with our clients’ interests at the front of our minds, mean that our projects exceed clients’ expectations. What do you think is the greatest challenge for designing in sustainability? Understanding the financial implications is important, and

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any sustainable elements must provide a viable return for the client, so it is an art to balance all of the necessities with the financial ideals. Sustainable design often includes a high upfront cost, so it’s important that the client understands the long-term benefits so they can make the right decision. What is your favourite building and why? The Jewish Museum in Berlin by Daniel Libeskind. I discovered this building when studying for my BArch, and it is simply a fantastic use of architecture to provide a thought-provoking and moving experience. One of the most symbolic and powerful spaces within the building is the tall void that runs through the whole building, a cold and atmospheric space which is covered with 10,000 iron faces to represent those lost; certainly a space that cannot be forgotten once it has been experienced! What can we expect to see from BE Design over the next year? We’re really driving forward with more technological advancements at the moment, particularly with the use of BIM. The company is continuing to grow, not only as a multidisciplinary practice but also in developing its design ethos and overall approach to architecture, harnessing creativity and orchestrating amazing projects. This year, the practice celebrated its fifth anniversary, so we’re excited to see what the next half-decade brings.

■

characterisation in his drawing. Hand-drawing still plays a big part in my day-to-day role as I find it gives projects a more personal and emotive feel.

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Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre, Nanjing, China

An excellent legacy of the 2014 Youth Olympic Games Located on the river in Hexi New Town – Nanjing’s new central business district (CBD) – majestically stands another masterpiece from the house of Hadid. The Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre subtly lives up to the enchantress of architecture Hadid’s nickname, the ‘queen of curves’.

Fact File:

All images: ©Hufton + Crow

and a venue for Jiangsu province’s annual conferences. Some of these functions, such as the footbridge connecting the city to the rural landscapes of Jiangxinzhou Island in the Yangtze River, are expressed. Others, such as burying the existing expressway below ground to create a new riverside park, are now hidden. The four elements of the cultural centre (conference hall, auditorium, shops and guest zones) are independent volumes surrounding the central courtyard. These four elements merge into a singular whole at higher levels, enabling pedestrians to walk through an open landscape at ground level. The conference hall seats 2100 and is equipped with a multi-purpose proscenium stage suitable for conferences, cultural and theatrical events, while the auditorium seats 500.

he Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre harnessed the energy of the 2014 Youth Olympic Games to create a project with a lasting legacy that has enhanced and also regenerated its setting – acting as both an anchor and a catalyst for future investment in Nanjing’s Hexi New Town. Comprising two hotel towers that include the new Jumeirah Nanjing, a cultural centre with conference facilities, an urban plaza, offices and mixed-use areas, the development initially provided accommodation for the 2014 Youth Olympic Games. Now in its legacy stage, the centre has fostered investment in Hexi New Town on multiple levels; integrating additional infrastructure with new functions that include the hotels

Project: Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre Location: Nanjing, China Date: 2011/2018 Client: Hexi New Town Planning Bureau GFA incl basements: 465,000m2 Status: Completed for 2014 Youth Olympic Games/Jumeirah Hotel 2018

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Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre, Nanjing, China

All drawings: ©ZHA

JUMEIRAH NANJING HOTEL & CULTURAL CENTRE – SOUTH ELEVATION

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Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre, Nanjing, China

Culture and traditions

The cultural centre’s design is a threedimensional calligraphic composition that resonates with Nanjing’s 1600-year-old tradition of Yunjin – the name given to the intricate brocade threading used by local craftsmen to weave the region’s acclaimed gold and silver fabrics. Like Yunjin thread, a continuous line interweaves throughout the cultural centre connecting it with its earthquake-resistant towers and beyond to the new central business district, riverside park and Jiangxinzhou Island. The tapering profiles of the towers, at 255 and 315m – Zaha Hadid Architects’ tallest completed towers to date – extend the viewer’s sense of perspective. The towers’ trapezoidal floorplans maximise their river-facing frontages, and doubledecked elevators increase the efficiency of their core area planning by 50%. The cross-sectional geometry of the towers ensures an average net-to-gross ratio of over 70%.

JUMEIRAH NANJING HOTEL & CULTURAL CENTRE – WEST ELEVATION

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Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre, Nanjing, China

A high-performing design

High standards in the quality and performance of the centre’s interior environments are achieved by bringing natural light into the deep-plan spaces of the conference centre and minimising the need to augment daylight by avoiding tinted glass. Office spaces combine mechanical and natural ventilation which, along with high-level gardens, enhance the user experience. Efficient cooling and heating strategies, optimal passive design orientation, flexible planning and selfcleaning facades are used to maximise the project’s design life. Driven by the milestone of the 2014 Youth Olympic Games, for which the development provided venues and competitors’ accommodation, the centre’s construction operations set records and demonstrated the whole project team’s expertise.

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Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre, Nanjing, China

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Blloku Cube, Nanjing International Tirana, Albania Youth Cultural Centre, Nanjing, China

Mainland China’s first completely topdown/bottom-up tower construction, combining above- and below-ground construction with extensive design work proceeding in parallel, the project’s construction programme was reduced by a full year. The entire centre was completed just 34 months after design began with all works on site lasting a mere 18 months. The Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre’s architecture is defined by its location at the intersection of an important urban axis and the Yangtze River, as well as its location at the junction between the city’s urban fabric and the natural landscapes of the parks that line the riverside. With its popular 2100-seat theatre and the new Jumeirah Hotel, the Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre has been a vital catalyst for investment in Hexi New Town’s civic infrastructure; an excellent legacy of the 2014 Youth Olympic Games.

■

Defined by location

www.zaha-hadid.com

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Build Focus:

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

Owner of Habitat Aid, Nick Mann:

Commercial Director UK & Ireland at Recticel Insulation, Kevin Bohea:

Time to tackle biodiversity

Internalising comfort leads to happy, healthy homes

If you’re over 50, you’ll remember your parents stopping to clean the squished insects off the windscreen. Gentle youthful reader, this really was a thing. So what happened – why is this now just a memory for the middle-aged? The UK has the third highest population density in Europe, after the Netherlands and Belgium. Additionally, we pay too little for food and too small a premium – if any – for sustainably produced food. Since the second war, we have flogged our farmland intensively and remorselessly. It’s not coincidental that of 218 countries recently assessed for ‘biodiversity intactness’, this green and pleasant land was ranked 189. Habitat loss is a significant problem. But maybe the winds of change are blowing. People – including house buyers and owners – are beginning to realise that some simple and inexpensive choices will help nature. Gardens can be real oases for wildlife, including areas with very high biodiversity value.These features can look good too. Choose mixed native hedges instead of fences.They’re safe corridors for wildlife, provide pollen, nectar and leaves for a wide range of attractive insects, and nuts and berries for birds in winter.They grow quickly to give good privacy and provide better security than a fence. Our native hedge plants are visually attractive too – blossom in spring, flowers in summer, autumn colour and in winter; berries, sloes and haws. Flowering lawns, not manicured turf, are low maintenance, pretty and a boon for bees and other pollinators.Water features, maybe as part of a sustainable drainage system, attract a whole new cast of intriguing wildlife. Bird and other habitat boxes really do work. These kinds of additions add significant economic and biodiversity value to any new build, with insignificant cost – or even cost savings.They’re not just greenwash or features for enhancing BREEAM ratings – these are real benefits.

Creating better-insulated homes is more than about keeping occupiers warm. It’s about creating an interior environment in which residents can live comfortably for many generations. It’s a fact that hasn’t gone unnoticed by architects, who are far more aware of the importance of designing rooms in which occupants can thrive rather than merely exist. Ageing buildings and the UK’s wet, mild climate provide the perfect storm

Campaign Director for Wood for Good, Christiane Lellig:

Take a pass on high-energy use Build more homes, make them more affordable, reduce energy use and associated bills, and get local authorities in on the act. It’s tough criteria to fulfil, but Passivhaus may be the answer. Traditional house-building methods mean that on average, even new-build homes use 60 to 80% more energy for heating than the original design target. For older buildings, energy use is even worse as heat literally goes out the window. Passivhaus, a German concept developed in the early 1990s, adopts passive design principles, achieving impressive energy efficiency as it bypasses the need for traditional heating and cooling systems. It’s an ideal solution to meet the Government’s aspirations for halving energy use in new buildings in the UK by 2030.The

into the environment, the construction industry is increasingly turning to PIR, rather than mineral fibrebased insulation.There are numerous benefits associated with PIR insulation board. Its closed cell structure makes it a hydrophobic product, meaning it doesn’t absorb water. This allows the thermal performance and reliability of the panel to be retained over time, resulting in comfortable, damp-free walls and interiors. www.recticelinsulation.co.uk

welcome long-term side-effects of Passivhaus performance include improved indoor air quality, thermal comfort and self-maintained moisture and humidity levels. Homes designed to Passivhaus standards often benefit from increased space and daylight too. As the need for high-quality social housing stock grows, many local authorities and housing associations are now building to Passivhaus standards for their own housing schemes, offering the benefits of this approach to their tenants. One unassuming housing estate, Heathcott Road in Leicestershire, is, in fact, one of the largest affordable Passivhaus housing schemes in the country. Disused land was regenerated by architect firm rg+p into an award-winning £7m community made up of 68 eco-homes. The scheme addresses the needs of the local people by providing homes with one to four bedrooms, constructed using Westleigh Partnership’s Westframe PassiPlus timber framing. As a result, the homes achieve U-values as low as 0.1W/m2K, and the use of timber frame made the homes more cost-effective to build. www.woodforgood.com

www.habitataid.co.uk

for damp to thrive.This is particularly concerning when multi-occupancy, social housing buildings are affected, as these provide affordable accommodation for many elderly people and young families. Long-term exposure to mould and damp can lead to chronic health issues for the more vulnerable members of society. To help combat thermal profligacy for the comfort of occupants and, in turn, release fewer emissions

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Build Focus: Operations Director at Roof Maker, Sabahudin Medic:

Chief Executive of the Structural Timber Association, Andrew Carpenter:

Insight into U-values

STA Assure receives recognition from the NHBC

Minimising heat loss throughout a property is a significant factor. Windows and rooflights, in particular, can be a key area for potential heat loss; but also an opportunity for increasing overall thermal performance. It’s important to understand the difference between Uf, Ug and Uw-values to ensure you not only specify the correct type of glazing and framing but also conform to Building Regulations.The Ug-value applies to the thermal efficiency of the glazing, whereas the Uf-value calculates the performance of the window without the glazing, and the Uw-value is reflective of the heat loss from the total unit. To ensure you are specifying the correct products, always reference the total Uw-value of the overall product. As the Ug-value will typically be the lowest performing value, it can be easy to assume you are within relevant Building Regulations if you follow this measurement. But, without correct insulation or framing, this potential thermal efficiency can be lost as metal is a good conductor of heat, therefore, making the frame less energyefficient than the glass. To combat this, ensure you specify products that have appropriately insulated thermal frames with relevant thermal breaks and sufficient glazing. You should always go by the total Uw-value to ensure you go above and beyond.

STA Assure was launched in 2017, implementing an independently audited scheme for members. This rigorous process adds further standing to the use of off-site timber build methods. Off-site technology is hailed as the solution to resolving some of the most challenging problems facing the industry.The off-site sector, especially structural timber technology, is witnessing unprecedented demand and it is, therefore, crucially important to be able to provide tangible evidence of quality and safety standards, together with robust processes and procedures.

Director of Rights to Light at Trident Building Consultancy, Dan Wade:

A glimmer of hope for natural light in homes For the majority of home dwellers, the decision to have more daylight in their home isn’t a difficult one. Access to daylight makes life easier and more pleasant. While little research has been undertaken specifically in homes, we do know that building users with access to daylight are healthier. Daylight is important to our circadian rhythm, and anything that stops it from shining through can affect our health and wellbeing.

Research from BRE states that:“The provision of adequate daylight…is of fundamental importance”. So how do we increase daylight coming into our homes? Specifying the correct windows is an obvious place to start and the use of bi-fold doors is increasingly popular, creating a better connection between the house and garden. For homes that struggle with access to natural light, solatube skylights

Promoting excellence To provide qualifiable evidence of excellence, STA structural timber building system supplier members: Undergo an independent audit for the STA Assure Membership and Quality Standards Scheme on an annual basis Operate Site Safe procedures to ensure timber construction is both safe and sustainable Receive regular updates on the latest Building Regulations and legislation Fully support sustainable construction and quality standards. STA Assure creates a clear distinction in the expected performance levels within the structural timber arena. Only STA members undergo the audit, providing transparency, credibility and accountability, thereby, enabling them to partner with reputable member companies. www.structuraltimber.co.uk

and daylighting systems are mitigating solutions. It’s important to remember not all house-building is limited to one or two storeys. As pressure increases to build tall, access to daylight can become a contentious issue, especially if there are requirements to create amenity spaces with the use of balconies (whether projecting or recessed), placing additional constraint on the windows that surround them. The key is assessment at an early design stage.You need to know exactly where the windows, doors and daylight systems need to be placed in the home to gain the most exposure to daylight. This needs to be balanced against existing buildings that may block daylight, natural barriers

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to light such as trees and even over-exposure to daylight.Too much solar exposure can cause overheating in the home. Rights of Light specialists undertake calculations to help developers know where to position homes and provide architects with the knowledge on how daylight can be incorporated into design.These reports can then be used to support the planning process and gain credits under BREEAM, Code for Sustainable Homes and WELL Building assessments. It’s not a simple system, guidance documents such as the BRE 209 paper can assist, but when done properly will brighten up our lives for years to come. www.tridentbc.com

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www.roof-maker.co.uk

NHBC recognition The STA has reached a formal agreement with the NHBC. From January 2019, the NHBC will accept STA Assure Gold members as compliant with Chapter 6.2 of NHBC’s assessment processes for timber structures without the need for further review or completing an HB2445 form. STA Assure has also received formal recognition from seven other the industryleading structural warranty and building control bodies including; LABC Warranty, Premier Guarantee, Protek Warranty, BuildZone Warranty, Self-Build Zone Warranty, CRL and ABC+ Warranty for STA Assure Gold and Silver members.

Site Safe STA Assure goes beyond the factory process controls and also includes auditing against the Site Safe procedures which provides STA members with processes to support their customers in achieving safety during construction on all structural timber building system applications.

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Legal & Business

Are Brexit plans inclusive enough of sustainable construction? With immigration, the economy and trade being at the forefront of the Brexit discussion over the last two years, little noise has been made about the impact this will have on the country’s construction industry, comments Michael Slater, Regional Operational Manager at Western Thermal.

The Government has already said that proposals for new environmental laws after Brexit will ensure that current EU laws on the matter are not weakened. Although things may change, one policy that should be deemed a priority is the ‘polluter pays’ principle, in which those who cause forms of pollution can be held accountable in court and forced to pay a fine. Upholding this can see businesses feel obliged to remain environmentally-friendly when completing projects.The cost of this can, therefore, put companies off from taking shortcuts and damaging the area around them. It makes people and companies accountable and will impact their businesses as a result, meaning that sustainability becomes even more important. By having a plan in place, the UK is reinforcing its firm commitment to a greener Britain; the industry will be able to reap the rewards of such strategic planning post-Brexit. The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive and Energy Efficiency Directive could be crucial to this as they

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provide strict guidelines which companies must abide by in order to help combat emissions and global warming. Despite the concerns that the Government could relax its green building rules and regulations, the lowering cost of eco-technology and growing customer demand for environmentally-friendly builds could prove to be the antidote for the industry. The country has already been seen to have a much stronger vision and commitment to its targets than what is currently put in place by the EU, and this can only help the industry shift into a new direction in the future, meaning that Brexit is likely to have little impact in this sense. Nevertheless, sustainability has the potential to prosper in Brexit Britain, but the Government must show its commitment by undertaking impact assessments when it comes to implementing trade agreements.

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lready in a state of decline, construction is in desperate need of a revival once Britain leaves the EU in March this year, so that it can thrive, prosper and help carry the country through what will be a testing time. Sustainable construction is no exception to this as the need for a much more environmentally-friendly sector. There is no doubt that the EU has some of the most detailed and extensive environmental and sustainability laws of any organisation in the world. This is because they are a combination of other international policies on the subject. They address the likes of acid rain, air quality, noise pollution and the ever-growing importance of sustainable energy. It is clear that sustainable development is at the heart of EU policy and its economic, environmental and social benefits are evident to many, especially the UK Government as it prepares to exit the European Union.

www.western-thermal.co.uk

Voice of the Industry

100% Hackitt’s rallying call In October, the British Board of Agrément, in conjunction with Local Authority Building Control, launched 100% Hackitt, a joint venture to press the Government to introduce all 53 of Dame Judith Hackitt’s recommendations. Claire CurtisThomas, Chief Executive of the BBA, discusses why the initiative is important and how the industry can get behind it.

ame Judith’s report put into writing what many within the construction industry already knew, that fundamental change was required from the grassroots up. We saw it in our conversations with manufacturers, installers and clients who talked of the challenges they faced with procurement practices. For LABC, the conversations revolved around deregulation, red-tape and self-certification. For both organisations, the outcome was the same; lower prices and lower quality or, in Dame Judith’s words, the “race to the bottom”. 100% Hackitt is our rallying call to Government to implement all 53 of the Hackitt recommendations. And we are aligned with Dame Judith on this point; she warned that cherry-picking from her proposals would compromise their overall effectiveness. It is exactly this ‘pick-andmix’ approach that the BBA and LABC are urging the Government – through 100% Hackitt – to avoid. Our initiative was launched in Westminster to more than 70 panindustry and political representatives. Dame Judith delivered a keynote speech,

and other speakers included Clive Betts MP, LGA Vice President, Emma Dent-Coad, MP for Kensington, and Sir David Amess, MP Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Fire Safety Rescue Group. 100% Hackitt is a space for everyone who wants to see systemic change in the construction industry and has relevance throughout it, providing a real opportunity for stakeholders to help shape its future. For the BBA, it is about supporting good manufacturers, contractors and installers who want to do the very best for their customers. For LABC, it is about re-establishing the public sector ethos and preparing for additional responsibilities for local building control teams through the proposed Joint Competent Authority. At the launch, Lorna Stimpson, Deputy Managing Director of LABC and a qualified Surveyor, spoke passionately about her experiences, recounting how developers can shop around to find the building control supplier – generally private sector – that best suits their needs. In one recent example, the developer of a £60m scheme of high-rise tower blocks stipulated just 10 inspections at a cost of a few thousand pounds for the entire project, which Lorna rightly believes is both “ludicrous and dangerous”.

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Claire Curtis-Thomas graduated in mechanical engineering from University College, Cardiff, and gained an MBA at Aston University. Her industry experience was gained with Shell UK followed by roles at Birmingham City Council, initially as Head of Corporate Affairs and later as Chief Executive of Birmingham City Council Laboratories. During her time in Parliament, Claire championed a number of issues on behalf of the construction industry.

Her comments were echoed by Roberta Blackman-Woods MP, Shadow Minister for Planning and Local Government, who said: “It is totally unacceptable that developers are able to choose the building control inspectors they will work with. How did we get to this point? I call on the Government to implement all the recommendations of Dame Judith Hackitt’s review and fix the broken system of both the Building and Fire Safety Regulations.” I recounted the BBA’s experiences in talking to local authorities and housing associations about the installation of insulation products, which revealed the impact procurement practices were having. Major contractors were winning contracts and then turning to their suppliers for discounts, squeezing margins so tightly that quality absolutely suffered. Hackitt provides a joined-up way in which only contractors of good standing can bid for contracts with local authorities and housing associations, thus removing these questionable practices.

Don’t tinker Dame Judith also outlined some of her concerns at the launch event, highlighting how during conversations with stakeholders, one message came through loud and clear – that her recommendations shouldn’t tinker or tweak, but put forward fundamental change because, as she stated: “We have known for a very long time that this system is not working…residents don’t get listened too, experts who try to advise don’t get listened too. There is a general need for a massive culture change across the whole piece.”

Voice of the Industry Her vision is for a far less complex regulatory system, which she described as “nothing short of a mess” at present.“What we have devised is much simpler, but believe me; it will be tougher and more effective in terms of holding people to account. It will include a stronger enforcement package. It will also – if implemented correctly in the way that I intend – ensure that some of the current and very obvious conflicts of interest around who regulates as well as who advises industry get sorted out. “We will introduce this principle of making the case for why a building is safe, and that rests with those who are going to build the building or who own the building and run it rather than the current system where it is up to the regulator to say whether it meets the rules or not. “Running through all of this is this notion that a high-rise building is indeed a complex system and many of these current nonsenses of common parts and compartments which are separate need to be wiped out of our language. You look at the building as a complex, holistic system.That then needs to drive clear responsibilities where everyone knows what they are responsible for and who is responsible at every stage in the lifecycle of the building.”

Backing

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100% Hackitt is designed to do what it says on the tin and has support from senior figures across the construction and fire safety sector, including the Fire Sector Federation. Its Executive Director, Dennis Davis, said the federation backs the initiative because of the need for a “mandatory, controlled system that allows us to balance what we want – innovation, good buildings, new ideas and growth in our economy – with sensible restraint that ensures shortcuts and economies aren’t made and shows that people are competent, resulting in safe buildings for those who occupy them.” During the launch, I described 100% Hackitt as “the best thing for the British construction industry in a generation” simply because the Hackitt review has the potential to help eradicate bad practices and provide protection for the public if it is implemented in full. Parts of the industry have already introduced changes to working practices and relationships voluntarily, but many of the recommendations fall to Government to implement and we, therefore, need to keep the pressure on. The BBA and LABC have seen the consequences of poor practices within our industry and we are determined to do our best to make a difference.We urge you to join us.

www.100-hackitt.co.uk

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Fenestration: Mullions, Glazing & Frames

Improve thermal performance with triple glazing In 2017, the average UK household spent £102 per month on electricity and gas, accounting for nearly 5% of the UK’s average household budget. Nicolas Tye, Principal Architect at Nicolas Tye Architects, explores how following an ecological principle for a property’s design – particularly with regard to the strategic installation of glazing – can significantly improve a home’s energy efficiency, whilst simultaneously reducing its associated energy costs.

t’s common knowledge that a significant proportion of heat, up to 25%, produced by a boiler will escape through the roof of a house. 35% of heat also escapes through walls and gaps around windows and doors, meaning that 60% of a property’s total heat will escape through the building’s envelope. As this leaves the homeowner with only 40% of the heating they’re paying for, it’s no surprise that the average cost of heating is becoming increasingly expensive for UK households. So, as architects, what can we do to help reduce this figure? For roofs, in particular, insulation plays a key part in ensuring maximum thermal performance by minimising the amount of heat loss that occurs via radiation. However, rooflights also play an important part in improving the energy efficiency of the space. As the maximum U-values for walls, floors and roofs is 0.15W/m2K, architects should be choosing rooflights that offer maximum energy efficiency through comprehensive insulated frames and triple glazing. With regard to the design and build of an energy-efficient roof, the structure itself must be entirely airtight, requiring high levels of insulation and the elimination of all thermal bridges to ensure the maximum U-value of 0.15W/m2K isn’t exceeded. The roof’s specifications will, of course, be dependent on the build itself, but they must also ensure a maximum of 0.6 air changes per hour at 50 Pascals pressure (ACH50) to ensure adequate airtightness is achieved. The highest U-value for complete window installations remains at 0.85W/ m2K. For the design of roofs, in particular,

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Fenestration: Mullions, Glazing & Frames

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this requires the specification of rooflights that are either triple or quadruple glazed to ensure they do not exceed the maximum U-value. For example, Roof Maker’s latest Passivhaus-accredited fixed flat rooflight offers a U-value of 0.2W/m2K, providing installers with the confidence that the product can help to achieve complete energy and solar gain efficiencies. Typically, the installation of windows, doors and rooflights is where the greatest level of energy is expected to be lost, due to the glazing present and the breaks between the frame and the glass offering the opportunity for heat to escape. Therefore, the frames must be wellinsulated and fitted with low-E glazing filled with argon or krypton to prevent heat transfer. For most cool-temperate climates, this requires a U-value of 0.80W/ m2K or less, with G-values around 50%. In many homes, the roof space of a property is now often used as an additional living space, usually an extra bedroom. To ensure it’s as thermallyefficient as possible, the thermal comfort of the space must be met during both winter and summer, with no more than 10% of the hours in a given year over 25°C. The premise of thermal comfort is that it can be achieved solely by post-heating or -cooling the fresh air mass through efficient indoor air quality conditions. This removes the requirement for additional recirculation of air through manual ventilation systems such as opening rooflights and windows. To ensure this, it requires adequate insulation of the building’s envelope to ensure the desired level of warmth can be achieved within the property. To offer the cleanest air possible, the roof space must also feature an adequate ventilation strategy, allowing for good indoor air quality and energy savings. At least 75% of the heat from the exhaust air should be transferred to the fresh air again by means of a heat exchanger. This should be situated within the roof of the building to ensure the successful exchange between the exhaust air within the building and the fresh air outside of the building. By incorporating the above ecological design principles into new-build and renovation projects, architects can ensure they are helping customers significantly reduce heating costs and improve overall indoor air quality, without compromising on the overall aesthetics or quality of the build.

www.roof-maker.co.uk /passive-house

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Coatings, Finishes & Stains

In Weston-super-Mare, the clean, crisp facade for Weston College is in white insulated render and ceramic tile – featuring an innovative water jet-cut logo design

Classic, ecofriendly cladding for the 21st century

Endless colours, clean, modern lines and green credentials – what more could you want for a 21st-century facade? James Ormerod, Managing Director of architectural finishes firm Aliva UK, explains why insulated render is well worth considering.

he stunning simplicity and white curves of the £15m headquarters of Wrexham-based telephone answering firm Moneypenny have quickly made it a modern design classic in office buildings – and deservedly awardwinning. Not only is the interior fit-out an exemplar for all UK companies, but the insulated render exterior also gives it green credentials to match. The clean, crisp facade wraps in unbroken lines around the exterior of the building, providing a faultless finish thanks to 5000m2 of insulated render. It will withstand the worst of the Welsh weather – imperative in the building’s semi-rural location. Quality insulated render like this has excellent thermal insulation credentials, plus selfcleaning and anti-algae staining properties that will ensure Moneypenny maintains its pristine finish for years to come.

Top marks for schools Insulated render is also known as a cladding material for major refurbishment projects, particularly social housing. It is cost-conscious, straightforward to apply (with expert supervision) and keeps its clean good looks for years. It can also be combined with brick slips to enable restored buildings to stay true to their surroundings. But given its versatility – and thanks to a huge palette of colours – it can provide quality, individual looks for buildings across many sectors including retail, residential, hospitality, leisure and education. Another advantage of insulated render is that it can be installed quickly over large areas. This made it an ideal material when Telford’s Building Schools for the Future project needed to clad seven schools in an eco-friendly fashion. The bespoke insulated render finishes allowed the contractor to keep to a tight schedule of delivery deadlines.

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Bright, modern finish In Salford, Greater Manchester, a costeffective, high-quality insulated render facade transformed a 1960s tower block that was being upgraded and modernised inside and out to meet current Building and Thermal Value Regulations. Wade House is part of the Barton Village project in Eccles, Salford, where major regeneration work is currently underway. The architect chose insulated render in bespoke salmon pink plus blue smooth traditional brick slips and lightweight stockeffect brick slips to over-clad the 10-storey block. The architect needed a lightweight solution to create a first-class aesthetic and thermal fabric for the building. The brick slips were chosen to complement the existing brick structure and surrounding buildings. The result was a bright, modern finish that transformed the look of an ageing building into an exemplar for 21stcentury high-rise living. For three 12-storey high rise blocks of flats in Wythenshawe, Greater Manchester – an area that has undergone major regeneration in recent years – the contractors needed an external wall system that could be used without height restriction. The insulated render allowed for the use of a textured finish in white and blue-grey that transformed the tired exterior while meeting the need for both thermal and external upgrades. A blue brick slip over a mineral wool insulation complemented the traditionally-laid brickwork to the apartment blocks.

Coatings, Finishes & Stains

The merits of insulated render for refurbishment are not confined to social housing either.

Future-proofed buildings

In Salford, Greater Manchester, a cost-effective, high-quality insulated render facade transformed a 1960s tower block that was being upgraded and modernised inside and out to meet current Building and Thermal Value Regulations

building’s eco-conscious design. The tile was cut with the logo ‘Winter Gardens’, linking the new entrance to the identity of the building. Given that more than a third of the heat in a building is lost through its walls, high-quality insulated render that delivers a stylish, contemporary finish is a must for any energy-conscious building project. These contrasting buildings show that there is no limit to an architect’s dreams when it comes to using this versatile finish.

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In Weston-super-Mare, the clean, crisp facade for Weston College is in white insulated render and ceramic tile – featuring an innovative water jet-cut logo design. The project began when North Somerset Council approached Weston College with a proposal to transfer the building to the college’s ownership – restoring the 1920s part of the building and redeveloping the little-used 1980s conference facilities into a stunning educational centre. Part of the brief was to design and install a facade for the entrance to a two-storey new build and replace an ugly 1980s concrete entrance. The aim was to reflect the site’s classic Art Deco beginnings while looking to the future. Insulated render fitted the bill again, as the brief was to create an energyconscious building that was futureproofed for generations of students to come. It was specified in white to tie the new extension in with the rest of the building’s aesthetics. To achieve an Art Deco look, cut stone was the first choice for the building’s logo; however, the volume of stone would have been too heavy. Ceramic tile rainscreen cladding was specified instead – a lighter product made entirely from natural materials to support the

The stunning simplicity and white curves of the £15m headquarters of Wrexham-based telephone answering firm Moneypenny have quickly made it a modern design classic

www.alivauk.com

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HVAC & IAQ

UFH can be a commercially viable option for all kinds of buildings While the earliest applications of underfloor heating can be traced back to 5000 BC Korea, most of the major developments resulting in the systems we know and use today happened in the last 100 years, says Ross Verity, Managing Director of ForceDry.

n my own career in the plumbing and heating industry, which spans 26 years, I have seen many improvements, the most significant of which I believe is the advent of flowing gypsum screeds.These liquid screeds are superior in many ways to sand and cement, but most notably, they can be force dried quickly and safely; provided the right equipment is used and best practice is observed. Flowing gypsum screeds do not curl; they need no reinforcement, shrinkage is extremely low and large bays can be laid without risk of cracking.

The drying times given on screed datasheets are generally based on a fixed environment, at 20ºC and 60% relative humidity throughout the stated drying period. It is rarely if ever possible to achieve these conditions naturally on a construction site in the UK. Typically, an anhydrite screed, installed at 50mm depth, will be said to have a drying time of 60 days, given these fixed environment conditions, but on a construction site, this will often extend a total of 90 days or sometimes even longer.

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A brief history – recognising the full potential However, I recognised the potential of force drying some years ago, and developed unique technology specifically for use with liquid screed flooring, before launching the ForceDry business in 2013. Using this specialist technology, combined with strict environmental control and following the screed manufacturer’s instructions, can bring both the total drying and commissioning time down to just 28 days. Time is money in construction, so being able to shave up to around 70 days off installation time for liquid screed floors by force drying represents a very significant cost saving for contractors and developers alike, and brings welcome certainty to any construction programme. We have worked on many housing developments over the years, and I have often been struck by the fact that developers often specify radiators for the affordable housing element of the project, keeping underfloor heating for the more expensive properties. There seems to be a general perception that underfloor heating is a ‘high-end’ item, but I know from experience that underfloor heating systems with liquid gypsum screeds are quick and economic to install. I was convinced underfloor heating could be a viable solution for all types of property – including affordable housing.

HVAC & IAQ

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So, we decided to undertake a study to compare the costs of a radiator-based heating system with an underfloor heating system. We worked with some of the UK’s leading contractors, giving them a brief to install three different specifications: traditional radiators with a 75mm sand and cement screed, traditional radiators with a 50mm flowing screed and a 50mm flowing screed with underfloor heating. The brief was based on installing the systems in a one-, two- and three-bedroom property. We then analysed the costings and data to produce our findings. The results showed that for an 80m2 dwelling, installation costs for the radiators with a sand and cement approach ranged from £3003.72 to £3483.10; for a 50mm flowing screed with radiators, costs started at £3163.72 to £3563.10 and for a 50mm flowing screed with underfloor heating, costs ranged from £3464.63 and £4082.30. The costs for the underfloor heating approach also included force drying. This study shows that the underfloor heating method is only marginally more expensive to install than radiators. However, when site running costs and penalty clauses for development overruns (which can run into hundreds of thousands of pounds) are also taken into consideration, the significant, additional cost savings are clear. But there is an additional, major benefit in using liquid gypsum screed flooring – it is kinder to the planet than sand and cement screeds. Liquid gypsum screed comprises 98% recycled waste material, requires less energy to produce and, because it is thinner, uses less material. As a result, a 50mm gypsum screed contains 20kg less embedded carbon per square metre than a 75mm sand and cement equivalent. In addition, liquid gypsum screed floors have excellent conductive properties so are highly efficient and economical when used with underfloor heating. So there is no reason why developers should not specify underfloor heating for social or affordable housing. Using liquid gypsum screed flooring with force drying, combined with underfloor heating, is a viable solution. This approach is economical to install, environmentally-friendly and performs very efficiently. It can save developers and property owners time and money during the build and allows them to offer a superior product specification. Furthermore, homeowners and tenants benefit from the comfort, economy and low maintenance this kind of system offers.

www.force-dry.co.uk

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Facades, Cladding & Rainscreen

In Brixton, the top three storeys were brick-clad, sitting over a glass-fronted ground floor which has been developed into a gym

Brick slips: on-trend for urban developments

Slips can now be cut from bricks to match existing or nearby brickwork exactly, in terms of the region, size (imperial or metric), age and condition, and with a reliable supply

Here Jason Hughes, Managing Director of Imperial Bricks, talks about the growing market for brick slips and tiles – both externally and internally.

ricks are a timeless material, and still the number one choice for construction. And, although architects and planners are becoming more particular about the types and styles of brick, there’s no sign that they are losing popularity. Often the first thing people see on a building, the look, feel and quality of brickwork can make a significant difference to the value of a property. But there are new takes on the old. Brick slips, or tiles, are cut from full-size bricks, and have really taken off in the last few years and are increasingly specified for external and internal use. They offer a traditional finish which can quickly be applied to less expensive materials such as concrete blocks or timber frame construction. And they look great too. So, what’s behind this rise in popularity? We’re seeing brick slips chosen for a variety of projects, from cladding new builds to adding decorative feature walls or an industrial look to bathrooms and kitchens in residential

interiors. Externally – if you use the right brick – they are an effective way to blend a new property into the neighbourhood or ensure an extension looks right. Slips can now be cut from bricks to match existing or nearby brickwork exactly, in terms of the region, size (imperial or metric), age and condition, and with a reliable supply. This is an exciting new opportunity for architects and developers that wasn’t available before. We’re seeing the trend for slips, particularly in urban developments. Space is at a premium in our cities, and nowhere more so than in London. New buildings are shoehorned into small spaces, while old – and not so old – premises are demolished to make room for homes and commercial developments. Speed is essential for these projects; demolition and construction are potentially very disruptive to everyday life, and developers want to build quickly to minimise the impact on the community, and their costs. Often, storage space on site is very limited too,

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and slips take up less room. Brick slips offer an ideal solution for developers who want to save time and labour, or for self-builders. Traditional bricklaying is time-consuming, weather dependent and requires expensive, skilled tradespeople; if you can find them. The ongoing skills shortage can seriously delay projects, adding to costs and disruption. Fixing slips to an existing surface is quicker and easier and can be undertaken by a nonspecialist builder or even a self-builder. Brick corners or ‘pistols’ are available to complete the look, while brick slip systems offer a template so the slips can be correctly spaced – making it even easier to achieve a great finish.

Facades, Cladding & Rainscreen

For the Brixton project,Victorian Orange Wirecut 73mm slips with an aged finish from Imperial Bricks were used to complete the outside

Case study: bricks for Brixton A recent project in up-and-coming Brixton illustrates the value of using bricks slips and tiles, inside and out. Vanquish Iconic Developments, the London-based urban residential developer, recently completed a development of eight apartments a short walk from the Underground and Brixton Market.The apartments were built on the site of a dilapidated 1960s building, previously used by a children’s nursery and a local church. Once permission was granted (several sets of plans were submitted before the final design was approved), the building was demolished and replaced with a four-storey block.The top three storeys were brick-clad, sitting over a glass-fronted ground floor which has been developed into a gym. Vanquish ID

has used brick slips a number of times before, notably in its award-winning Moonlight Drive development in Belgravia, and the developer was well aware of the advantages. For the Brixton project, Victorian Orange Wirecut 73mm slips with an aged finish from Imperial Bricks were used to complete the outside. The finish mimics the look of a converted warehouse and echoes many buildings in the area.The result is a development which instantly fits with its surroundings; it looks as though it’s always been there. Vanquish also used brick tiles in the same blend to great effect inside the apartments. A premium penthouse look is achieved with high ceilings, industrial fittings and ‘exposed brick’ feature walls.

Vanquish has worked with Imperial Bricks on several projects in the past four years and is planning to continue the relationship with their upcoming developments.The company specialises in developing creative, unusual and stylish apartments, often converting existing buildings to provide unique new homes. A spokesperson commented:“We use slips because they are quick and effective. Given the sites we work on, where space is often limited, we’ve found it’s much easier to fix brick slips in tighter spaces (such as when we are working up to neighbouring walls). Our sales manager works closely with suppliers to source unusual bricks – for example, a grey glazed or a reclaimed red – and we know we will get an exact match either from stock or using a bespoke mixture.” Brick slips are very much a product for the times.They won’t replace traditional bricks, but there are many projects where a quicker, simpler and more lightweight type of construction is required. Slips can be provided in metric or imperial sizes and all colours and finishes. Imperial Bricks, for example, offers the widest range of traditional handmade, wire-cut and pressed bricks from a single supplier, with over 50 different regional bricks (covering most of the UK). Slips can be made to match any surroundings – a real advantage when building on infill sites in busy cities. Planning and conservation requirements are easily met, and developers can make the most of often limited space to construct new buildings with traditional looks and modern performance.

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A recent project in up-and-coming Brixton illustrates the value of using bricks slips and tiles, inside and out

www.imperialbricks.co.uk

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Surface Design Show Preview Quadilic Tile by Vicalvi

From 5 to 7th February 2019, Surface Design Show will take place at London’s Business Design Centre to provide a platform for architects, designers and specifiers to explore the best in interior and exterior surface material design, development, innovation and manufacturing.

ver 150 exhibitors – some new, some returning – descend each year to showcase beautiful and intelligent surface materials and treatments. More than a trade fair, however, the show also features installations, talks and presentations to keep visitors both captivated and informed.

Installations Each year, Surface Design Show introduces a focus into the event.The chosen areas of interest for 2019 are the workplace and the public realm.These two specialist areas of design will be explored from a surface-specific point of view, providing engaging insight into the best and latest products, materials and applications that impact working and public realm environments. Surface Spotlight Live, curated in collaboration by trend expert Sally Angharad and colour forecaster Colour Hive, is a returning highlight.Their installation,‘One of a Kind’, will aim to inspire a kinder approach to design through a series of thought-provoking and innovative products, all of which go beyond aesthetics to promote meaningful experiences.

Stone Gallery, which is officially supported by Stone Federation GB whose Stone Knowledge Hub forms a focal point for the event, will also be returning. Stone Gallery is an industryleading event for architects and designers to meet and specify natural stone. The 2019 edition welcomes back returning exhibitors as well as new additions such as Piedra Paloma, Airemarmores and Marmi Faedo. The Stone Hub hosts a series of presentations for A&D professionals to listen and learn from the leading designers in the sector. Light School offers Surface Design Show attendees a hands-on experience allowing architects and designers to touch, compare and learn about innovative architectural lighting and technology products. Confirmed returning exhibitors include Appelec, Optelma and Pixalux. Industry experts from Hoare Lea, Nulty+, Atelier Ten and 18 Degrees have confirmed to share their knowledge at Light Talks, the Light School’s bespoke arena for learning, which is supported by the Institution of Lighting Professionals (ILP).

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Events Opening Tuesday 5th February, the show’s programme springs into action with the Live Debate, organised in association with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and New London Architecture (NLA). The ever-popular PechaKucha Evening will again be hosted by Phil Coffey of Coffey Architects, taking place on the main stage on Wednesday 6th February from 18.30. Since 2013, the show has hosted the Surface Design Awards, now recognised as one of the most respected events in the design calendar. The 2019 awards received entries from across Europe, the US, Australia, China, Korea and India.The awards recognise the best and most interesting exterior and interior surfaces for different sectors of design, including commercial, housing, light and surface, public building, retail, sustainable and temporary structures.The awards presentation will take place on the morning of Thursday 7th February. The 2019 judging panel was co-chaired by Christophe Egret, Founding Partner at Studio Egret West, and Paul Priestman, Chairman at PriestmanGoode.The full panel comprised Cany Ash, Partner at Ash Sakula Architects; James Soane, Director at Project Orange architecture & interior design; Jeremy Offer, Chief Creative Officer at future-focused vehicle designer Arrival; Katie Greenyer, Creative Talent & Network Director at Pentland Group; Paul Edwards, Head of Creative Design at Airbus and Roz Barr, Director of Roz Barr Architects.

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Surface Design Show 2019: celebrating the best in new and innovative surfaces

An exciting new feature at Surface Design Show 2019 will be New Talent, curated by internationally-acclaimed speaker and forward-thinking Chief Creative Director at Trendease International, Jennifer Castoldi. New Talent will give a platform to up-and-coming designers in the surface and materials sector. Participants include experimental materials studio MUUNA; Laura Evans Designs;Yi-Han Fu,Textile Designer; Orla Lawn, decorative panelling and Tomasz Maker, woodworking and metalwork.

www.surfacedesignshow.com

Surface Design Show Preview Material: HI-MACS® Alpine White, Opal Photo credit: ©Jeroen Musch

Surfaces inspired by design James Latham returns to London’s Surface Design Show in February, where it will be showcasing one of the biggest and most varied collections of surface solutions for both inside and outside the building.

reated to inspire architects and designers when looking to specify materials, the stunning collection of decorative panels and timber reinforces Latham’s status as a single-source supplier and has been carefully selected to provide innovative ideas for both design and product specification. During the show, Lathams will be featuring a number of exciting new products and range additions for 2019, both on its usual, eye-catching stand on the ground level (stand 208) as well as in its permanent Product Specification Showroom which is located on the gallery level of the Business Design Centre at suite 301. Chris Sutton, Managing Director at James Latham, explained:“Working in conjunction

with our supply partners, who are among the biggest and most recognised surfacing brands in the world and experts at forecasting trends, we are presenting our take on both interior and exterior surface solutions for the future. “Showcasing a wide range of design-led exclusive and semi-exclusive products, our stand, and indeed our showroom, will act as a hub for providing ideas and inspiration to visiting architects and designers.” Latham’s highly experienced and knowledgeable team of product specialists will be on hand both on the stand and in the showroom, to offer practical support, technical advice and specialist knowledge on selecting products, and to explain how they can offer support throughout the entire specification process.

This year, James Latham will be showing the latest range additions for 2019 from supply partners including; Decospan, Abet Laminati, Garnica, Egger, Kronospan, AE Core, XyloCleaf, Accsys, LG and Sekisui SPI as well as a range of timber cladding, flooring and engineered timber sections; plus, an exciting, exclusive new product launch will be announced. The Surface Design Show takes place at the Business Design Centre, 52, Upper Street, Islington, London, N1 OQH, between 5 and 7th February 2019. 8 www.lathamtimber.co.uk

* marketing@lathams.co.uk ( 0116

257 3415

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ARCHITECT@WORK Preview

ARCHITECT@WORK moves to Old Truman Brewery for 2019

xhibition Manager, Hannelore Caenepeel, comments: “Our team is very excited to finally be able to hold ARCHITECT@ WORK in one of London’s most vibrant architecture and design districts. We are convinced that this move to Shoreditch is key to the further development of our unique exhibition concept.” Leading international architectural suppliers will showcase over 200 innovative products and offer the latest innovations in surface solutions, lighting technology as well as interior and exterior fixtures and fittings. All exhibitors go through a rigorous selection process, with an external judging panel overseeing the product selection, to ensure that this is one of the UK’s most highly respected trade shows of its kind. The theme for ARCHITECT@WORK UK 2019 is ‘future-proof’. In an age when

change is measured in seconds, not years, and sustainability is a necessity; not an ‘extra’, architects and designers are increasingly tasked with proposing projects that have longevity. How can practitioners ensure they are taking the lead when it comes to future-proofing their projects and who is setting the agenda for tomorrow’s built environment? To tie in with the theme, design consultancy and library, MaterialDriven, will present ‘MATERIALS THAT…’, a curated collection of materials and projects that have been future-proofed by either having health benefits, being adaptable, resilient or complete a cycle. ‘...ARE HEALTHY’ will focus on materials that contribute to health and wellbeing and are not only toxin-free but also toxin-absorbing, including fabrics embedded with seaweed and carbon-negative composites made with captured greenhouse gases.‘...ADAPT’ will

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showcase modular products that can easily be moved or made larger/smaller.‘...ARE RESILIENT’ will include durable materials that can withstand all the elements.‘...CLOSE THE LOOP’ will highlight materials that have longer lifecycles and can be reused, repaired and recycled rather than being sent to landfill, from bioplastics to bricks grown from mycelium.

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ARCHITECT@WORK, a carefully curated annual twoday trade event aimed at architects, interior designers and specifiers, will move to Old Truman Brewery in Shoreditch for the seventh London edition from 30th to 31st January. The two days include free admission for registered trade visitors and complimentary catering throughout, encouraging networking and downtime as well as deal-making opportunities.

www.architect-at-work.co.uk

ARCHITECT@WORK Preview

TALKS PROGRAMME Wednesday 30th January

Thursday 31st January

15:00 – Modern methods: Off-site construction and pre-fabrication are the buzzwords of the day, and they are bringing about a quiet revolution within the built environment. A series of high-profile case studies will be explored in this talk, demonstrating how modern methods of construction are changing building design across all sectors.

13:00 – Eco is not a dirty word Sustainability is absolutely integral to the future of the built environment, but there are still very few companies that are creating truly innovative projects and developments. The speakers on this panel will explain the power of green design, with small boutique projects that wrap around trees, megastructures and sustainable strategies for healthy city development.

16:15 – Sarah Wigglesworth in conversation Architect Sarah Wigglesworth has been championing sustainable design for decades and has created projects that foster social wellbeing, while retaining her environmental credentials. In this special interview, she will reveal the key projects that have shaped the practice, as well as discussing upcoming work that demonstrates the evolution of her work. 17:30 – Back to the future Demolishing old buildings and replacing them with new ones is expensive and bad for the environment.The truly sustainable approach for the city is one that renovates and reimagines its built heritage, making it fit for purpose for the contemporary occupant. This panel of experts will look at a range of case studies, from homes to offices and galleries to exhibition centres.

16:15 – Zero-carbon cities What can we do to make our cities carbonneutral? The technology exists, but we need good design coupled with developers and local Government to make it a reality. This panel of experts will prove that zero carbon isn’t science fiction, it’s happening now and it’s achievable for everyone. 17:30 – Brave new world Architects and designers have historically played an important role in helping us visualise what our world might look like in the near future. By using cutting-edge technologies and radical forms, we are encouraged to look ahead, not back. However, restrained and rational projects have become the fashion in the recent years, and this talk explores the work of a few brave souls that are creating the places and spaces of the future, inspiring the next generation.

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CPDs & Seminars

Kährs launches RIBA-approved CPD

SIMONSWERK launches Specification of Hinges CPD SIMONSWERK’s RIBA-approved CPD on the Specification of Hinges will provide architects with the technical knowledge for specifying the correct hinge for the right application.

Kährs has launched a new RIBA-approved CPD seminar for architects, designers and trade professionals. The seminar, titled ‘Engineered Wood Flooring’, educates on the construction of engineered wood, and how the product can be effectively specified within both domestic and commercial projects. Environmental accreditations, installation methods and examples of references are covered within the 40-minute seminar, with complimentary lunch. Learning aims of the seminar include: what is engineered wood, the installation process, environmental considerations, shaping the design brief, budget considerations, accessories and how to maintain an engineered wood floor. Book your CPD with Kährs via the below website. * sales@kahrs.com

( 02392 453045 8 www.ribacpd.com/kahrs-

uk/4209/overview

he presentation offers guidance on door specification, legislation, Building Regulations, fire and safety in use, CE Marking – MANDEC and the Equality Act. SIMONSWERK has over 35 years of experience in the manufacture of high-quality brass, aluminium and stainless steel hinges for doors, windows and conservatories. The company’s ranges include the outstanding fully concealed TECTUS system and the increasingly popular TRITECH solid brass hinge with concealed bearings and load capacity to 160kg. For further information on SIMONSWERK’s RIBA-approved CPD on the Specification of Hinges or any of the company’s products, please visit the website below. * info@simonswerk.co.uk

( 0121 522 2848 8 www.simonswerk.co.uk

Learning could be a lifesaver GEZE UK has revised a piece of lifesaving learning – its popular RIBA-approved CPD on specifying, installing and maintaining ironmongery for fire doors.The 40-minute seminar explains what fire doors are, identifies their various components, how they work, the

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standards and regulations which surround them and why smoke is so dangerous. It is intended for chartered members of RIBA but is also suitable for facilities managers, property managers and architectural ironmongers and completely updates the 2016 version. It incorporates the latest statistics for England,Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, including the number of people that die from smoke inhalation every year. It also highlights the latest regulations. * info.uk@geze.com

( 01543 443000 8 www.geze.co.uk

New RIBA CPD app covers subfloor preparation and adhesive selection F. Ball and Co. has made its RIBA-assessed CPD tutorial available to download as an app. The tutorial covers all aspects of subfloor preparation, including the varying requirements of different subfloor types, moisture testing and providing effective moisture protection, and the installation of a suitable levelling compound to create a smooth, blemish-free finish. The CPD module also details how to specify the correct adhesive, taking into account the floorcoverings being installed and the environment in which they will be situated.The tutorial can be completed in one go or in sections until it has been fully completed, upon which a certificate of completion is issued.The tutorial is worth one hour of CPD. * mail@f-ball.co.uk

( 01538 361633 8 www.f-ball.co.uk

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HVAC & Electricals

Evinox comments on changes to hot water services in NHBC Standards for 2019 The NHBC is the UK’s leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes, setting standards for registered builders and working to help improve the construction quality of the homes they build. It recently announced the launch of its 2019 standards, which became effective 1st January 2019. The standards apply to all properties with foundations laid on or after that date. Evinox is happy to see some updates to ‘hot water services’ in the new standards, where changes have been made to some of the flow rates and supply temperatures at the outlets. For example, the supply temperature at the kitchen sink has been reduced from the previous 60 to 55ºC, which is in line with the delivery temperature that was selected for the majority of heat networks during the last year.

Helen Gibbons, Evinox Technical and Design Manager, comments: “This change to the outlet temperature is a very positive development as it will enable district and communal heating system flow temperatures to be reduced, something which is especially important for the growth of fourth-generation heat networks in the UK. In addition, the lowered DHW temperature combined with the new table in the NHBC standard

for simultaneous hot water use will give design engineers the confidence to reduce the kW demand for individual properties, something which will significantly improve both efficiency and cost of UK heat networks.” Helen continued: “Whilst we are very happy to see that the required temperature from the kitchen outlet has been lowered to 55ºC for 2019, we do hope to see this further reduced to 50ºC for heat network developments using instantaneous DHW heat interface units in the near future.” 8 www.evinoxenergy.co.uk * info@evinox.co.uk ( 01372

722277

Rinnai A-rated Infinity range for a low-NOx infinite supply of safe hot water Available from Rinnai is claimed to be the most energy-efficient, low-NOx and cost-effective range of A-rated water heaters across a range of load profiles compared with any other gas-fired continuous flow water heaters on the UK market. Rinnai’s heavy-duty condensing (HDC) Infinity models The Infinity HDC1600i, tested to below 20ppm NOx, produces the lowest emissions on the market, with 107% net thermal efficiencies.The newly-developed unit with down-firing burner allows increased efficiency. Rinnai Solo The Infinity Solo condensing, low-NOx water heater is the first Rinnai product for the UK to combine the advanced technology of its wall-mounted continuous flow water heaters with a stainless steel storage cylinder in one compact unit.

Rinnai Infinity Plus The Infinity Plus solution brings together multiple units of the company’s award-winning low-NOx water heaters into single, easily manoeuvrable modules. All pre-assembled on ready-fixed racks designed to fit through standard door frames. Rinnai Infinity industry-specific Bespoke Pack The Rinnai Bespoke Packs have been designed to provide better on-site efficiency and is supplied to site in one complete package, ready for instant installation. The A-rated, low-NOx system offers proven tested 105% efficiency and is G3 and Legionella (ACOP L8) compliant.

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Rinnai Infinity domestic and light commercial units The 24kW multipoint Rinnai Infinity 11i and 35kW 16i with push-fit flue systems join the Rinnai Infinity 17e for external mounting to create a flexible range of domestic and light commercial water heaters that boast high efficiencies and ongoing savings. 8 www.rinnaiuk.com * info@rinnaiuk.com ( 01928

531870

HVAC & Electricals

Stunning 33 Glasshouse Street attracts leading tech giant AET Flexible Space has returned to 33 Glasshouse Street, London to complete Cat B fit-out works on the second, third and fifth floors for one of the world’s leading tech giants. The stunning 52,000ft2 building has recently undergone full structural reconfiguration and refurbishment, features a Grade II Listed facade and is located in a prominent position looking over Regent Street and Soho.

12th-century abbey selects Advanced to protect artefacts

Space-saving underfloor air conditioning was originally specified for this challenging ‘cut-andcarve’ project, helping to maximise headroom in the restricted space and creating a floor-toceiling height of 3.3m as well as large open-plan floor plates for the Cat A space on floors three to seven. The underfloor system also helped to maximise natural light penetration through the deep floor plates. Perimeter heating and cooling would not have been effective, and a ceiling system would have required a void that would virtually cover the low-level windows. The CAM-C direct expansion system at 33 Glasshouse Street is served by external heat pumps and provides fully conditioned air via the underfloor plenum using zonal downflow units (CAM). Cool or warm air is then introduced into the workspace via TU4-EC Fantiles, or fan terminal units, which are recessed into the 300mm void. Working for Modus Workspace, AET engineers carried out additional fit-out works for the incoming tech giant including the supply and installation of additional Fantiles, return air grilles and underfloor air baffle to cater to the proposed high-density layout and accommodate the additional cooling requirements. 8 www.flexiblespace.com

* lucy@flexiblespace.com ( 01342

310400

BoilerMag teams up with worldwide brand

Jedburgh Abbey has selected the industry-leading MxPro 5 panel, from Advanced, to protect a rich heritage of treasures on display in its visitor centre. Advanced was specified by the team at SAFE Services, which was appointed to design, install and commission the replacement of an ageing fire system within the visitor centre, gift shop, staff rooms and offices, utilising existing cable runs and containments to avoid exposed wiring. Graeme Millar, Fire Systems Technical and Sales Engineer at SAFE Services, said: “The MxPro 5 was ideally suited for this project due to its high reliability and open protocol which meant that we could more easily replace the old system at a lower cost to the customer.” MxPro is the fire industry’s leading multiprotocol fire system solution. It offers customers a choice of two panel ranges, four detector protocols and a completely open installer network, backed up by free training and support.

The BoilerMag range of heating protection products will now be marketed under the world-renowned Spear & Jackson brand name. Previously marketed by sister company Eclipse Magnetics (a Spear & Jackson Group member company), the BoilerMag range will now benefit from the strength and heritage of the Spear & Jackson name. Sales & Marketing Director for BoilerMag, Steve McAllorum, said: “Spear & Jackson has over 250 years’ experience and innovation, as well as an enviable reputation and a market-leading product range. We are, therefore, delighted to be working closely with them in order to expand the reach of our popular range of magnetic heating system filters and water treatment chemicals.” BoilerMag is manufactured by magnetic technology expert Eclipse Magnetics, which – in addition to Spear & Jackson – is part of the worldrenowned Spear & Jackson Group. With a 250-year history, the Spear & Jackson Group is a multi-national organisation with divisions covering garden tools, metrology equipment, woodworking tools and magnetic equipment.

* sales@advancedco.com

* service@boilermag.com

( 01670 707111 8 www.advancedco.com

( 0114 225 0600 8 www.boilermag.com

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Doors & Windows

Battersea Power Station revitalised with Clement steel doors and screens Contractor and architect Area Sq chose Clement products including EB24 to create a series of both internal and external steel glazed partitions, walls and doors throughout Battersea Power Station Estates’ office and the surrounding areas. Battersea Power Station was created to meet the energy demands of the new age. Sir Giles Gilbert Scott was hired by the London Power Company to create this first of a new generation of ‘superstations’, with the building beginning to produce power for the capital in 1933. After being out of use since 1982, in 2012 administrator Ernst & Young entered into an exclusivity agreement with Malaysia’s SP Setia and Sime Darby to develop the site. Later that same year, the £400m sale was completed, and the redevelopment commenced. This Grade II* Listed building and surrounding area are now being transformed

into one of the most exciting and innovative mixed-use neighbourhoods in the world. Colin Pye, Corporate Accounts Director at Area Sq, said: “We are really pleased with our decision to select Clement to provide new steel windows for this iconic development. The service provided by Clement has been brilliant from beginning to end – from the initial quote and drawing stages through to delivery and installation, everything was provided on time and to the high standard we required. We selected EB24 steel screens from Clement because their industrial Art Deco looks are in keeping with those of the

original power station. However, being 21st-century double-glazed steel screens, they provide outstanding thermal and acoustic performance as well. The outcome is windows that are sympathetic to the original development but also meet the high technical specifications of the project.” 8 www.clementwindows.co.uk * info@clementwg.co.uk ( 01428

643393

Sliding version of Crittall InnerVision steel screens launched

GEZE UK takes centre stage for leisure needs

Creating a seamless transition between internal areas by opening or closing space is now possible with new single- or double-leaf sliding doors from Crittall’s range of InnerVision interior screens.The new doors offer wider opening areas than more intrusive hinged alternatives by virtue of their sliding design maximising use of inside room space, particularly where it may be limited. Offering the strength and ultraslim profile which are the hallmark of the Crittall range of products, the InnerVision range allows the sub-division of internal commercial or domestic spaces without interrupting the transmission of light or reducing valuable space. In commercial applications, screens and sliding doors can be used to create quiet spaces in busy offices, schools and colleges, or calm interiors in restaurants while hectic kitchens or bars are still in full view.

Whether it’s creating a grand entrance or ensuring access for everyone, all leisure venues seeking to attract people through their doors need to strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality. Alongside this can be a long list of specific needs: sustainability, accessibility, security, health and safety, the flow of people around the building, environmental impact or heritage sensitivity. GEZE UK’s new ‘Project Portfolio Leisure’ outlines how some of these considerations have been put into practice within a range of different buildings from a prestigious art gallery, theatres – old and modern – to striking landmark visitor attractions. The brochure highlights the flexibility that GEZE UK’s extensive range of solutions provides as a manufacturer of both manual and automatic door and window control systems.

* hq@crittall-windows.co.uk

* info.uk@geze.com

( 01376 530800 8 www.crittall-windows.co.uk

( 01543 443000 8 www.geze.co.uk

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INNOVATIVE INNOVATIVE FIRE FIRE ENGINEERING ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS CONSULTANTS

At At FDS FDS Consult, Consult, we we take take a a bespoke bespoke approach approach to to each each and and every every project. project. Our Our expert expert fifire re engineers engineers will will bring bring all all the the technical technical At FDS Consult, we take afor bespoke approach tothey’ll each and every project.ofOur expert fire engineers will bring allwouldn’t the technical know-how know-how you’re you’re looking looking for to to your your project, project, but but they’ll also also bring bring a a level level of creative creative thinking thinking that that you you probably probably wouldn’t expect. expect. know-how you’re looking for to your project, but they’ll also bring a level of creative thinking that you probably wouldn’t expect. We’ll work work holistically holistically with with your your building building to to fi find nd solutions solutions that that enhance enhance its its safety safety whilst whilst remaining remaining true true to to its its design design concept concept and and We’ll We’ll work holistically with your building to find solutions that enhance its safety whilst remaining true to its design concept and working working practically practically with with its its end end use. use. Contemporary Contemporary buildings buildings need need to to maximise maximise safety safety whilst whilst exploiting exploiting modern modern construction construction working practically with its endarchitect’s use. Contemporary vision. buildings need to maximise safety whilst exploiting modern construction techniques techniques and and delivering delivering the the architect’s aesthetic aesthetic vision. techniques and delivering the architect’s aesthetic vision. Contact Contact us us to to fifind nd out out more more about about what what our our innovative innovative approach approach to to fifire re safety safety consulting consulting could could deliver deliver for for you. you. Contact us to find out more about what our innovative approach to fire safety consulting could deliver for you. Telephone: Telephone: +44 +44 (0)1322 (0)1322 387 387 411 411 || Email: Email: info@fdsconsult.com info@fdsconsult.com || Visit Visit us us at: at: www.fdsconsult.com www.fdsconsult.com Telephone: +44 (0)1322 387 411 | Email: info@fdsconsult.com | Visit us at: www.fdsconsult.com

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Floors, Walls & Ceilings In the PRO-TEK construction, the WPC element makes up the fifth stability layer of the floor. It sits below the UV layer, wear layer, decor layer and luxury vinyl top layer.

For the retailer looking to add design breadth to their portfolio, there are 40 individual designs within the PRO-TEK WPC range

PRO-TEK WPC engineered vinyl – the brand-new flooring option Late last year, The Flooring Show hosted the launch of PRO-TEK WPC – a new type of engineered vinyl flooring – and before doors even opened, it received a Flooring Innovation Award. Developed to meet the demands of the commercial and residential sectors, this new innovation ticks a lot of boxes and looks set to open up new opportunities across brand-new sectors. With over 40 natural effects to choose from, matching accessories and multiple benefits – from a waterproof construction to fast installation – it packs a big punch. But what exactly is WPC?

ood plastic composite, or WPC, is a type of engineered vinyl flooring. It’s still a relatively new concept in the UK but, in America, it’s one of the fastest growing surface sectors. Many US retailers offer WPC as an alternative to luxury vinyl tile and laminate, as it combines a natural aesthetic with the benefits of vinyl, and provides additional benefits too. Its popularity has also been driven by the demanding US commercial sector and it’s widely specified in newbuild, healthcare, retail, education and hospitality sectors, with growing interest from the consumer market too. Closer to home, stick-down LVT has enjoyed strong growth in the UK and this, in turn, looks set to fuel interest further.

WPC flooring is waterproof, and it’s renowned for being stable and rigid. It is made up of calcium carbonate, thermoplastics and wood flour. In the PRO-TEK construction, the WPC element makes up the fifth stability layer of the floor. It sits below the UV layer, wear layer, decor layer and luxury vinyl top layer. The WPC element is the thickest layer, and it forms the core structural layer, incorporating a glueless locking joint. Underneath is an attached IXPE foam underlay. The WPC engineered structural layer makes the floor much thicker and more rigid than traditional vinyl, so it can be laid directly onto a subfloor with little or no preparation. In comparison, traditional vinyl tends to be more flexible and is

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prone to ‘telegraph’. In traditional vinyl installations, subfloors generally have to be screeded or boarded out to create a sufficiently flat surface but, even then, some distortion may be visible. The new designs can be laid over most existing hard floorcoverings and are compatible with ‘wet’ underfloor heating systems; the waterproof features also make it suitable for bathrooms and basements. Built-in underlay also makes the surface comfortable to walk on, as well as providing sound insulation up to 24 dB. In addition, the engineered construction is phthalate-free, and all materials used are 100% recyclable, so there are health and eco-benefits too. There are also considerable time-saving benefits for the installer too. Minimal floor preparation and the product’s integral underlay cut installation time dramatically, as does the floor’s glueless ‘click’ joint. This makes it an attractive proposition for projects with tight turnarounds, from university halls to healthcare environments. For the retailer looking to add design breadth to their portfolio, there are 40 individual designs within the PRO-TEK WPC range. Wood effects are divided into four collections – ‘Excel’ rustic planks; ‘Distressed’ vintage designs; ‘Excel Long Plank’; which includes wider, longer boards and ‘Essential’ – a range designed for newbuild homes, refurbishment and student accommodation. The fifth collection, Excel Tile, includes eight designs in marble, slate and travertine effects. Matching WPC vinylwrapped accessories are compatible with all of the collections and span from doorway T-bars to stair set tread and riser profiles. 8 www.pro-tek-flooring.com

* paul.heatley@protekflooring.co.uk ( 0203

917 5550

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+44 (0)161 767 1122

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Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Schlüter warms the floors of a unique housing project

An Essex-based project centring on the provision of a muchneeded National Autistic Society (NAS) school has seen the installation of electric underfloor heating system Schlüter-DITRAHEAT-E-DUO into the 60 houses built to offset its costs.

he Anderson Foundation (the charitable arm of Chelmsford-based construction and development company, Anderson Group) has a long-standing association with the NAS and close contact with Essex County Council. Through these relationships, they identified a drastic shortfall in the number of school places for autistic youngsters in the Epping Forest District Council area. At the centre of the project was the idea to build the school without using public funds. As a result, a carefully considered gated community of three-, four- and five-bed luxury houses – Chigwell Grove – was planned to enable its construction. The greenbelt site on which the initiative has been realised included former training pitches for Premier League football team, Tottenham Hotspur, and was sensitively redeveloped, with the school as its focus.

Insight

Area: Bathrooms and en-suites Action: Protecting and heating floors

Electric underfloor heating system DITRA-HEAT-E-DUO was installed across the bathrooms and en-suites of the houses in the Chigwell Grove development, beneath both 900 x 450mm and 600 x 600mm porcelain tiles. Three different sized kits were used according to the size of the rooms, minimising any waste product. “We found the DITRA-HEAT-E-DUO system very easy to install – much easier than mesh-based systems,” says Paul Clough, Owner of tiling contractor PJ Ceramics. “In fact, as a company, we have recently switched completely to membrane-based systems – they’re far more versatile as you can route the cable around features rather than heating entire floors at additional expense.” DITRA-HEAT-E-DUO is a unique allin-one solution for waterproofing and heating floors, as well as ensuring a crackfree finish. The system features a studded uncoupling membrane into which heating cables are clipped and securely held in place, ensuring an even and consistent heating experience. The fact that an

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uncoupling membrane is integrated into the DITRA-HEAT-E-DUO system offers a number of additional advantages, the chief amongst them being reductions in height build-up and installation time in comparison to mesh-based systems, which require an uncoupling membrane to be installed as an additional layer in the flooring assembly. The DITRA-HEAT-DUO membrane also features a 2.5mm fleece layer that reduces heat loss to the substrate, accelerating the warm-up process by up to 70% in comparison to conventional underfloor heating systems. This layer also provides impact sound reduction of up to 13 dB (which translates to a reduction of 50% by reckoning of the human ear). Schlüter-Systems is privileged to play a part in this project, which has transformed this space from an artificial landscape into a community with a cause. 8 www.schluterspecifier.co.uk * pr@schluter.co.uk ( 01530

813396

Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Cavity wall elevation appraisal essential Cavity Trays of Yeovil, the longest-established specialist in its field and the only UK cavity tray manufacturer awarded European Technical Approval, has extended its bespoke output capacity with the opening of an extended 2019 production unit. One of the product lines manufactured within the unit is the Type BA Barrier Arch Cavitray, which is now being offered in over 48 different designs to suit openings up to 5m wide. Currently, Cavity Trays is supplying bespoke Gothic and triple-radius arches for projects in London and Manchester, in which the specification not only calls for precise DPC integration around openings but accompanying measures to reduce elevation gravitational water down-flow from extensive masonry areas at higher level (absorption area to linear collection ratio exceeds 33 to 1). Type Q Arresting Barriers were identified during elevation appraisal as

ideal to arrest and facilitate offset water evacuation prior to it reaching arched openings at a lower level. Minimising the water volume reaching converging arch pinch-points eliminates the possibility of overloading. The arches, in turn, are each protected with harmonisingly-shaped Type BA Cavitrays, so a balanced protective Cavitray DPC arrangement keeps the buildings dry. This ‘umbrella’ elevation management approach is of particular merit where; one, there are lower level pinch-points between arched openings. Two, lower masonry offers minimal evacuation opportunities because of structural features. And three, masonry skin has high absorbency.

Cavity Trays operates a free evaluation, design and scheduling service and its approved products are accompanied with a performance warranty. New literature is now available from the longest-established specialists. 8 www.cavitytrays.co.uk

* enquiries@cavitytrays.co.uk ( 01935

474769

CRL Quartz Renaissance collection wins Best Surface of 2018

Topping off another successful year for CRL Stone, the distributor was the proud recipient of a prestigious industry award, scooping the ‘Best Surface’ accolade at the 2018 EK&B Business Awards. It was CRL Stone’s Renaissance collection that impressed the award’s judges the most.The collection of CRL Quartz surfaces was launched in 2018 and was designed in response to the trend for natural materials in the kitchen and bathroom. The CRL Quartz Renaissance collection is a highly durable, easy-to-care for surface. Offering designers and consumers the best of both worlds in terms of aesthetics and function, Renaissance is not only trendsetting and beautiful but also an award-winning collection of surfaces. * crlquartz@crlstone.co.uk

( 01706 863600

8 www.crlquartz.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

Designer Contracts provides ‘makeover magic’ at one Chesterfield hospice Designer Contracts is to provide more ‘makeover magic’ at Ashgate Hospice. Following the complete makeover of the Chesterfield hospice’s family room earlier this year, the company is to redesign and refurbish three counselling rooms at the hospice. Said Peter Kelsey, MD at Designer Contracts: “We were delighted to help out at the hospice which plays a vital role in the local community but couldn’t survive without significant support. As a result of updating the family room, we’ve received wonderful feedback from patients and their families and are thrilled to help continue the new interior theme into three counselling rooms next year.” 8 www.designercontracts.com * enquiries@designercontracts.com ( 01246 854577

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Building Elements

Testing excellence allows the BBA to lead the way in product certification

How modern buildings rise from a tangle of bricks, cement and steel to become fully functioning, usable buildings is less a mystery and more a precisely planned and controlled process redeveloping or repurposing unused or redundant land, writes Alvaro EnguitaGonzalez, Head of Testing at the BBA.

ut, rarely do we consider the work undertaken by a plethora of organisations and companies before a building is conceived and specified, much less constructed, to ensure performance, safety and sustainability. Did you know that some companies must first verify the quality and performance of each of the products and systems before they can be specified? And that each construction product is tested as an individual item, as part of a system and as part of the building as a whole? Have you also considered how changing one component can affect how the building/ structure behaves in differing circumstances and by failing to test against all factors the entire build process, including insurance, specification and sustainability, can be impacted? All components used within new-build and retrofit projects are subjected to a series of rigorous approval tests that are regulated by international standards.These regulations define the parameters that must be taken into consideration when examining the safety and quality of construction products, determining

mechanical capacities, structural integrity, durability, weather resistance, safety and capacity to resist manipulations and intrusions through thorough testing. In addition to these regulated standards, products also need to be tested to check their durability, energy efficiency, aesthetics and environmental factors (noise of construction). If a product or system fails these tests, or the third-party testing organisation does not take into consideration all factors, it can negatively impact the entire build process.

Why should these tests be carried out? Predicting the behaviour of a system is complicated due to the peculiarity and diversity of a productâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s components and the wide range of factors that arise in varying situations to which it may be subjected. Therefore, the rigorous testing procedures used within the BBA are vitally important to determine the fitness for purpose of a product and provide certification if that is required.

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The tests undertaken as part of ascertaining this focus on: Safety: the extensive calculations and tests that the materials are subjected to, plus the controls adhered to in the manufacture and assembly process, to guarantee greater protection during the construction process and for the people who will reside in and use the building once finished Standardisation: compliance with internationally-recognised regulations is a positive assessment factor for the manufacturer, the installer, the designer and the construction company â&#x20AC;&#x201C; especially in their relationships with insurance companies and building control authorities Guarantee: the products that strictly comply with the safety precepts and regulations in all EU countries provide reassurances for specifiers, insurance companies and end-users. Each of the certificates issued by the BBA is based on specific tests to ensure quality is not compromised.These tests help to obtain the mechanical characteristics, durability and resistance and the thermal efficiency of key components and their joints.

Conclusion As the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading notified body, UKASaccredited BBA evaluates hundreds of new products and systems each year through laboratory and on-site tests. Many of these tests will be associated with their corresponding certification processes and the elaboration of their quality plans and audits. We also inspect hundreds of factories, warehouses and manufacturing facilities across the world. 8 www.bbacerts.co.uk

* clientservices@bbacerts.co.uk ( 01923

665300

Building Elements

Powder coatings combining exciting individualism with reliability Evolution, Powdertech’s latest architectural powder coatings collection, is fascinating, daring and unusual. It is also a highly reliable metal finishing system for aluminium, galvanised steel and mild steel and carries the Powdertech 25-year colour, gloss and adhesion guarantee. Every Evolution finish is produced anew at the time of application and is unique for each customer. Combining flashes of one colour across a second gives a consistent inconsistency, mirroring the authentic variations in patina that occur as metals age and weather. This is an adventurous powder coating collection, noticeable and memorable, ensuring that your design stands out from the crowd. The Evolution process has been tested, rigorously and independently, by PRA World to European Standard EN ISO 12206 and Qualicoat specifications. The test procedures included wet adhesion,

acetic acid salt spray, humidity resistance, accelerated weathering and Filiform corrosion. Mechanical tests included sawing, milling, drilling, bending and cupping. In addition, Powdertech tested for intercoat adhesion and high-pressure jet wash resistance; tests more usually associated with the automotive industry. In all cases, Evolution demonstrated excellent performance, and the results can be seen in the datasheets via its website. Available in 72 different shades, these polyester-based systems cure to form beautifully textured finishes, often incorporating metallic or pearlescent

elements. The collection has five ranges – Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Steam Age and Modern Day; an evolutionary journey through natural and manufactured materials. The Evolution range of powders will be exhibited by Powdertech at the Surface Design Show, from 5 to 7th February 2019, in the Business Design Centre, London, N1 0QH. 8 www.powdertechcorby.co.uk * pcl@powdertech.co.uk ( 01536

400890

Washroom Washroom looks to the sky with ISG refurbishment

Washroom Washroom has delivered an outstanding washroom refurbishment featuring ‘Deep Night Sky’ Corian vanities for ISG’s London head office. Washroom worked closely with TMJ Interiors and ISG to deliver the new male and female washroom areas, designed to complement the highspecification finish seen throughout the rest of the building. The Washroom team designed, manufactured and installed bespoke trough-style Corian vanity units with Corian under panels for a unique washroom space. Available in a wide range of colours – but often specified in white – what makes this project stand out is the Deep Night Sky shade, which is described by Corian as “midnight black with a galaxy of translucent particles”. * sales@washroom.co.uk

( 0800 999 8888

8 www.washroom.co.uk

Prototype built entirely off site and designed to be assembled in single day The McAvoy Group has unveiled a prototype house to demonstrate the potential of its new modular housing solution and innovations for the residential sector. Designed to be assembled on site in one day, the steelframed building system can be used to construct both multi-storey apartments and houses in a wide variety of configurations to meet the needs of all housing tenures. Designed and engineered by McAvoy in collaboration with Queen’s University, Belfast, and TODD Architects, the prototype has been manufactured and fitted-out entirely off site to showcase a number of new innovations in off-site housing. It is now available for viewing at the group’s Lisburn site. * info@mcavoygroup.com

( 0288 774 0372

8 www.mcavoygroup.com/housing

Office Principles appoints detail and build director

Award-winning design, fit-out and workplace consultancy, Office Principles, is strengthening its detail and build arm with the appointment of Ken Malpass as Business Unit Director. Ken has been recruited to head up this already successful division, adding weight to the existing team as this area of the business continues to enjoy rapid growth. The company has completed over 90 significant projects, fitting-out over 660,000ft2 of office space in the last two years, and has evidenced a strong focus on projects that have been designed to RIBA Stages Two and Three during this time. With Ken on board, Office Principles expects to benefit from the rising trend and grow its market share. 8 www.officeprinciples.com * info@officeprinciples.com ( 0118 9131811

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Building Elements

FDS Consult provides expertise to Capital Towers development, East London FDS Consult has provided its fire strategy services to the Capital Towers development in East London. By specifying a 0.5m² mechanical smoke shaft per tower as part of the strategy, FDS Consult’s team of experts were able to provide significant space-saving within the building while providing the necessary levels of smokeclearance required along the single staircase approach for each tower. FDS Consult classified the residents’ gym, creche and private lounge as ancillary accommodations to the residential areas, allowing the extension of the mechanical smoke shaft from the above levels to provide the required levels of smoke ventilation without the need for additional smoke ventilation systems. After a careful analysis of each area of the building, FDS Consult recommended extending the mechanical smoke shaft from the levels above to provide the required levels of smoke ventilation for the ancillary areas.

As these facilities will only be used by residents who are familiar with the building’s escape routes in the event of a fire, the FDS Consult team were able to justify the use of a residential sprinkler system, providing substantial savings by avoiding the installation of unnecessary additional systems. While it is required under Approved Document B for buildings measuring over 30m in height to include sprinklers throughout, FDS Consult was able to provide a safe and cost-effective solution that only included the sprinklers within the residential apartments. This engineered out the need to extend the sprinkler coverage to car parking areas, the gym, creche, other ancillary areas and the development’s standalone retail unit, providing additional space for residents and also significant cost savings.

Knauf Insulation makes specification easier with new guide Knauf Insulation has launched its new Solutions Guide to make specifying the right insulation quicker and easier. The guide features the company’s extensive range of non-combustible, high-performance insulation ordered by application. This means customers, including architects and specifiers, can identify which products are best suited for roofs, walls, floors and fire protection. Product data detailing features and benefits are then listed in full at the back of the guide. Steve Smith, Head of Product Management and Business Intelligence at Knauf Insulation, said: “It has never been so important for architects and specifiers to specify the right insulation for the project. As the only manufacturer of both glass and rock mineral wool, we are uniquely placed to recommend the best insulation solution for each application. Our new Solutions Guide is designed to showcase which of our products is best suited for each of the different build elements of their designs.”

8 www.firedesignsolutions.com * info@firedesignsolutions.com ( 01322

Offsite Solutions launches apprenticeship scheme Offsite Solutions has launched an apprenticeship scheme to attract new talent into off-site manufacturing. The company is an important employer in the South West and recently won the ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ award at the Business Leader Awards. Working with Weston College, Offsite Solutions is looking to employ up to six apprentices who will train to be plumbers, electricians and bathroom fitters at its bathroom pod factory in Highbridge, Somerset. The company will also be giving up to 10 existing production staff the opportunity to join a new apprenticeship scheme for team leadership and to train as electricians and plumbers. This will give them additional skills and valuable career progression.

* sales.uk@knaufinsulation.com

* info@offsitesolutions.com

( 01744 766666 8 www.knaufinsulation.co.uk

( 01278 780807 8 www.offsitesolutions.com

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387411

LEVATO MONO

Porcelain paving system and coordinating internal tiling Surface 360, formally The Deck Tile Co, has 130+ colours and finishes in their Levato Mono 20mm porcelain paving tile ranges. Plus create a seamless visual transition between internal and external spaces with coordinating interior 10mm porcelain tiling.

• For both residential & commercial use. • Ideal for balconies, roof terraces, garden decking and piazzas. • Various sized 20mm thick porcelain tiles. • An eternal zero maintenance product - offering over-life savings.

• Timber, stone & cementitious effects. • ‘Floating floor’ – installation over single ply membranes. • Height adjustable/slope correcting support system: 9mm - 550mm. • Lightweight – 45kgs per m2.

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Highly abrasion and stain resistant. Highly slip resistant: R11 (ABC). High load bearing. Impact resistant. Completely non porous. Frost proof.

steam sho wer constr ucted from Schlüter ®K E R D I- B O ARD waterproo f, backer boar cement free d and seale d with Schlüter ®K E R D I- D S

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Schlüter ®D IT R A - H E AT electric und ertile heatin - E - D U O g and s reduction fo r wall and fl ound oors

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PROBLEM SOLVED

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.

support,

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