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April 2018
SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW
Stanton Williams juxtaposes historical and contemporary elements in Cambridge Judge Business School project
A positive outlook?
Underlying issues
New BS 8612 standard
Will PM Theresa May's NPPF changes solve the UK's housing crisis?
Are Sajid Javid's housing reforms sufficient? Paresh Raja, CEO of MFS, reports
Expert guidance from one of the roofing industry's finest on the new British Standard
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Mixed Media Information The authentic natural designs and colour options demonstrate that durability does not have to compromise design.
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Stanton Williams' extension for Cambridge Judge Business School seamlessly marries the old with the new. See page 18.
Welcome to the April issue of PSBJ... According to Philip Hammond, there's "a light at the end of the tunnel" for the UK. This succinct statement made during his inaugural Spring Statement as Chancellor of the Exchequer followed an apprise to the House of Commons on the fiscal changes made in Mr Hammond's Autumn Statement; namely those applicable to first-time buyers and the funds invested in the UK's public services. In his attempt to "build a Britain fit for the future", Mr Hammond's speech concluded with a positive announcement for Britain's small businesses. Up to £80m is to be released by the Education Secretary to support smaller UK firms in taking on apprentices, and £29m will be allocated to the Construction Skills Fund which is set to open for bids this month and aims to start up 20 construction skills villages across the UK. It's a well-known and much-publicised matter that there's a dire need for the juvenility of today to express an interest in employment within our construction sector, and, undoubtedly, Mr Hammond's statement will make a minute dent in the difficulty the industry faces with the skills shortage. However, many are expressing views that more must be done to encourage the youth of today to enter this sector if we are to strategically tackle the skills shortage; particularly with Brexit on the horizon. Turn to page 07 of this month's issue for a brief update on the responses to Mr Hammond’s Spring Statement from the world of social media. In other news, spring marked the season of change for the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). Delivered by the Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday 5th March, the report encourages developers to build more houses once planning permission is obtained in order to meet the Government's house-building targets. The general consensus appears to be intrinsically linked to Mr Hammond's addressed skills shortage, as highlighted by Andrew Hayward, Managing Director at Russell Roof Tiles, in this month's issue. On page 21, Andrew talks about the number of factors within the industry that cause developers significant delays when building new homes underlining the lack of employee skillsets within the industry. 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 Public Sector Build Journal’s state-of-the-art app. To download your version free of charge, simply search ‘PSBJ’ on Google play or the App Store.
Rebecca
Rebecca Kemp | Editor | rebecca@mixedmediainfo.com Follow us on Twitter:
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Contents
06 News A round up of the latest industry updates including charity events, awarded contracts, completed projects and much more.
08 Upfront Architecture firm, LK2, has been involved in Bishop Grosseteste University’s £3m redevelopment plans in a project that seamlessly unites historical architectural elements with those of a more contemporary composition.
12 Talking Point
26 16 Roofing, Cladding & Insulation
Paresh Raja, CEO of Market Financial Solutions, examines the creative approach the Government is taking to reform the UK property market and explores the areas that need to be 'bolder' to keep up with heightened demand.
Redland’s Technical Manager, Kevin Ley, explores the new BS 8612 Dry-fixed Ridge, Hip and Verge Systems for Slating and Tiling. Read up on Kevin’s expert knowledge and guidance on this new British Standard.
14 Housing
Situated adjacent to its Grade II Listed Business School, the University of Cambridge’s four-storey Simon Sainsbury Centre – designed by Stirling Prize-winning practice, Stanton Williams – features an innovative ‘breathing’ facade and is on track to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating.
Working for Fife Council, Kemper System has tackled water penetration issues at a Scottish social housing development in Buckhaven; suggesting its easy-to-apply waterproofing solutions while meeting budget limitations.
18 Technical Focus
20 Legal & Business Why should the construction industry’s number-one priority be increasing its output? Simon Cross at BRE reports.
22 Education Following last month’s focus surrounding school capacities, Acheson + Glover addresses another fabrication solution to potentially solve the UK’s predicted classroom crisis.
24 Healthcare David Brailsford at Altro looks at the cultural and social influences from across the globe that seem to be making an appearance in UK healthcare projects.
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Contents
34 08 30 Leisure
24 26 Facades & Rainscreen Cladding
Gosport Borough Council appointed leisure design construction company, Createability, for an extensive redevelopment to support a potential increase in members at Gosport Leisure Centre.
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32 Sports Pitches
36 Green Roofs
Gordon University’s £120m Garthdee Campus development has been stylishly finished with Booth Muirie’s rainscreen cladding.
The International School of Prague turned to TigerTurf when looking for a multi-sports pitch to replace the school’s previous natural grass facility.
28 Naidex Preview
34 Floorcoverings
The benefits of opting for a green roof for public sector projects are endless; from enhancing biodiversity to adding aesthetic value. Here, CARLISLE CM Europe explores the compatibility of EPDM for green roof projects.
The EU-leading disability show returns to the NEC, Birmingham, this year from 25 to 26th April bringing together over 12,000 attendees.
Loughborough University’s School of Architecture has received an inspirational renovation at its Keith Green Building using Polyflor’s rubber floorcoverings.
38 Product Showcase A dedicated focus of industry news, products and case studies to help specifiers and local authorities make informed decisions.
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News
INDUSTRY UPDATES
Each month PSBJ rounds up the latest public sector construction updates, from new contracts to industry awards.
development in the new innovation district in the city, the Creative Arts Building will sit in the heart of Leeds’ Civic Quarter. It is sited on Portland Way, opposite the Rose Bowl – the university’s business school.
Planning go-ahead £6.5m redevelopment for green makeover of brownfield site for Urmston Leisure Work has started on the construction of Centre approved 45 new houses and flats for older people, Plans have been approved for the £6.5m redevelopment of Urmston Leisure Centre, as part of Trafford Borough Council’s overarching plans for leisure improvements across the entire borough. The planning application, which will see building contractor Willmott Dixon brought in to overhaul the 1980s leisure centre, includes replacing the front section of the building with a double-height welcoming lounge/cafe area complete with modern touchscreens for class and activity booking and a soft play area. Large, brightly-coloured pods either side will house two fitness studios, changing areas and children’s party rooms, as well as an 8m-high clip and climb adventure climbing experience. A brand-new glass-fronted gym with functional training area will be created on the first floor, with views across the front of the building as well as into the refurbished pool at the back of the centre.
Liverpool John Moores University unveils new plans for Copperas Hill Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) has released new plans to create a vibrant new student destination in Liverpool city centre. Copperas Hill, a strategically important site located close to Lime Street Station, was formerly occupied by the Royal Mail sorting office, which closed in 2010. This building was demolished in 2017, paving the way for LJMU’s exciting new plans. LJMU is planning to develop the three and a half acre Copperas Hill site in two phases. Subject to planning approval, phase one will see the development of two new buildings, a student life building and sports building by summer 2020.
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transforming the site of disused buildings north of St Albans city centre into an attractively landscaped development. Richard Morton Architects (RMA), working for Beechcroft Developments, gained approval for 10 affordable flats, nine houses and 26 flats on the one-hectare site in Townsend Drive. Previously occupied by the Maryland Convent and Care Home, the derelict buildings had become severely run-down during the long planning process. But now, work has begun on bringing the site back to life, with the emphasis on plenty of green space.
GDC starts work on Leeds Beckett Building George Downing Construction (GDC) has broken ground on a major project to construct Leeds Beckett University’s £80m Creative Arts Building – a new hub for creative education in the city. The iconic building is being delivered by developer Downing and has been designed by architect firm Hawkins/Brown. The state-of-the-art facility will be home to the university’s school of film, music and performing arts, plus the fashion department. It will be packed with specialist facilities including a performance theatre and 220-seat Dolby Atmos movie cinema, as well as specialist studios for fashion, music, film and television. As the flagship
71 years from conception, planning finally granted for Potton Hall for All Woods Hardwick has just been granted planning permission to proceed with the construction of a new community hall, Potton Hall for All, Bedfordshire. The hall will provide a hub for local people and will accommodate a wide range of activities from celebrations, meetings and educational classes, to sport activities and performances. The idea for a hall was mooted in 1946, and it has taken over 70 years to reach this point. It is estimated the project build will cost £2.3m. Set to be built on the south edge of the new Tall Trees housing development, Potton Hall for All will include a 416m2 main hall, a kitchen, bar, foyer, two meeting rooms and ancillary facilities. Construction is due to commence as soon as the funds are raised, a process currently under progress.
Out-patients department in Haddington opens The East Lothian Community Hospital took another major step forward last month. The keys to the freshly completed out-patients department were given to NHS Lothian on 23rd February and opened to patients from 12th March. The new out-patients department is the first stage of a £70m programme of works that will see a modern and purpose-built hospital developed on the existing Roodlands site in Haddington. The full programme is anticipated to be complete by early 2020. The redevelopment of the hospital site is being undertaken in partnership with Hub South East Scotland, with Morrison Construction appointed as the main contractor.
News
TWEETS
Up-to-the-minute, public sector-related news from the world of construction.
"Ross Gilbert from QED comments on the 2018 Spring Statement – to fix the UK's #Housing challenge we must acknowledge our archaic approach to house-building"
ISG secures £4.5m Leeds school project ISG has secured its latest project via the influential YORbuild2 framework, with an appointment by Leeds City Council to deliver a £4.5m extension and refurbishment at Hunslet Moor Primary School. The project will enable the Leeds school to expand its intake from 45 to 60 pupil places from September 2018, increasing overall capacity at the highly regarded primary school from 315 to 420 pupils. A new, two-storey steel frame extension will link into the existing school and provide an additional six classrooms, alongside three new group rooms. An extensive refurbishment of the main school building sees ISG reconfigure accommodation to create a further three classrooms, install a new kitchen and upgrade mechanical and electrical services. The school will remain open throughout the duration of the project, with completion scheduled for late autumn 2018.
@QEDProperty
"Sector voices disappointment over Chancellor’s #SpringStatement via @BDonline @ben_derbyshire" @RIBA
"Spring Statement shines further light on 300k housing delivery: @BritProp #SpringStatement #UK #housing"
Balfour Beatty @Infabode is awarded "The Chancellor of the £124m Major Highways Programme Exchequer’s Spring Statement reaffirms Balfour Beatty, the international infrastructure group, has announced that it the Government’s has been selected by Wokingham Borough house-building targets Council to deliver its £124m Major Highways Programme. The contract has been and confirms 60,000 awarded under Scape Group’s National Civil homebuyers so far Engineering and Infrastructure framework. The four-year package of works will include no longer pay the the planning, design and construction of nine vital road schemes in Wokingham, as property tax on their well as four strategic development roads homes! #Housebuilding providing access to 12,000 new housing units in the region. These vital works aim to #Construction alleviate congestion, enhance accessibility and deliver the infrastructure required #SpringStatement to support the successful future of the #NewBuild" Wokingham borough. @GKLGroup
"'While there is positive news for the economy, productivity remains stubbornly flat.' @PetraWilton. The £80m boost for #apprenticeships is welcome news, but there is still more to be done in order to drive UK #productivity" @cmi_managers
"Much-needed good news for the #construction sector in @PhilipHammondUK's #SpringStatement today" @JobsonJames
"Construction businesses will be pleased to hear that Government is to launch a consultation on late payment practices and excessive payment terms, announced in today's #SpringStatement" @cbitimm
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Upfront
LK2’s team enabled the university to increase its teaching capacity on campus, while also retaining the green and ‘open’ feel of the university’s historical site
Project: Constance Stewart Hall Building Location: Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU), Lincoln Architect: LK2
team at specialist T hearchitecture firm LK2
BRINGING INVESTMENT TO A HISTORICAL CAMPUS IN LINCOLN The Constance Stewart Hall Building, located at the heart of Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln, is a remarkable project and has transformed a historical campus into a place that has the ‘wow factor’ to continue attracting students for years to come.
Phase two of the scheme focused on a state-of-the-art 7770ft2 extension added over Constance Stewart Hall, allowing space for new teaching rooms to be created
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were not given a traditional brief for the project but were challenged by BGU to enhance the area of the site which sits on a prominent roundabout on one of the main routes into the city. Through clever design, LK2’s team enabled the university to increase its teaching capacity on campus, while also retaining the green and ‘open’ feel of the university’s historical site. The £3m redevelopment forms part of an 18-year ongoing relationship between LK2 and BGU, with previous works delivered by the architect including the £4.3m student residence on the university’s campus on Longdales Road which was completed in 2013, the new £1m refectory and the £1.3m Hardy Building. The project – procured through the empa framework, which is managed by Scape Group – was also delivered by local construction company Robert Woodhead, Sutherland Consulting and Price & Myers. A main focus of the redevelopment was to create flexible teaching spaces fit for a variety of uses, while also sensitively enhancing a campus that is steeped in over 150 years of local history. In order to do this, the first phase of work was carried out to convert the catering facilities to state-of-the-art teaching spaces. The £750,000 scheme completely transformed the 1940s Art Deco building, with eight teaching rooms and a meeting space being created. Phase two of the scheme focused on a state-of-theart 7770ft2 extension added over Constance Stewart Hall, allowing space for new teaching rooms to be created. LK2’s team incorporated movable partition walls into the extension’s design, which were installed to provide greater flexibility and enable the university to utilise the space as individual teaching rooms or large, multi-functional spaces.
Upfront One of the most striking elements of the building’s design is how it blends together both new and old elements visually; the contemporary extension now appears to be sailing over the original building
The new extension features a curved glass wall, which mirrors the outlines of the original building; paying homage to its history
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The project’s second phase – which has become an iconic landmark in uphill Lincoln – has already received much praise since it was opened by HRH the Duke of Gloucester this summer, with the university receiving praise from the local community for its progressive and modern outlook to education. Andrew Kitchen, Director at LK2, said: “We are delighted to have worked on this iconic scheme which has transformed the cityscape here in Lincoln. We have worked closely with Bishop Grosseteste University to create a modern teaching space which complements the design of the original building, while also looking to the future of education. “Thanks to our long-standing relationship with BGU, we had a great understanding of the campus, what needed to be enhanced and also what needed to be retained. BGU’s campus is really unique, and we wanted to pay homage to that with our design, which marries together both the new and the old. “Overall, this project highlights the power of good design, and we are delighted that the new building acts as a ‘shop window’ for the university. It now has an even greater presence in the community to passersby, making the campus an aspirational place for students to be proud of.” The new extension features a curved glass wall, which mirrors the outlines of the original building; paying homage to its history. One of the most striking elements of the building’s design is how it blends together both new and old elements visually; the contemporary extension now appears to be sailing over the original building, perfectly mirroring and enhancing the history of the campus. Andrew added: “We are incredibly proud of the building, its striking design has helped BGU to become a landmark in the region and shows significant investment, having an impact not only on the university and its students but also the local community and visitors to Lincoln.”
Upfront The team at LK2 were not given a traditional brief for the project but were challenged by BGU to enhance the area of the site which sits on a prominent roundabout
LK2’s team also created the building to be future-proof and sustainable, with the flexibility of its large teaching spaces allowing Constance Stewart Hall’s extension to be used beyond day-to-day studying and teaching, with the potential to be rented out as event space when not in use by students and staff. The new extension has been designed using thermal modelling to ensure thermal efficiency and avoid overheating. Air source heat pumps have been incorporated to both heat and cool the building and solar shading utilised on the south and west elevations. Steve Deville, Director of Resources at the university, said: “It certainly has the wow factor – working on several levels both as an asset for the university and the city. We have had some very, very positive comments. It is a fantastic shop window for us as it shows the university is investing in the future and reflects our core values. “First and foremost is the learning experience for students – I feel quite privileged to be part of what we are trying to build for the next generation and how we invest to improve the student experience.” Throughout the scheme, the supply chain pledged to use local materials and labour wherever possible – for example, the frame supporting the extension
was made from locally-sourced steel. The development has also had a profound effect on the local community, as contractors worked to engage with local people throughout the entirety of the scheme and keep them on board from start to finish. The contractor, Woodhead Construction, had local apprentices working on site – including a BGU student – as part of its ongoing commitment to raising aspirations in young people. BGU and LK2 are pleased to announce that the recent renovation project has been shortlisted for this year’s RICS East Midlands awards for the accolade of ‘Design Through Innovation’ at the upcoming award ceremony. Vice Chancellor of BGU, Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, said: “We are incredibly proud of both our 150-year history of teaching excellence and our progressive attitude which has seen us become the top university in the East Midlands for widening participation. “When it came to creating a new flexible teaching space, we needed a building that would support our ambitions as well as a team who could understand this. The design by LK2 for Constance Stewart Hall perfectly captured this balance and our finished building provides students with cutting-edge
facilities to help them progress. We are pleased to see it rightly celebrated by the RICS.” The RICS Awards showcase the most inspirational initiatives and developments in land, real estate, construction and infrastructure. Across eight individual categories, the awards are regarded as the premier property and construction awards in the country, celebrating the most innovative projects in the region and their impact on local communities. Andrew Kitchen said: “We are delighted to have been recognised for our design of this iconic scheme which has
transformed the cityscape. This project showcases the impact of good design in so many different ways. The new building gives BGU’s campus greater prominence and promotes the university to the wider community.” LK2’s innovative approach to this redevelopment has resulted in one of the project’s most unique characteristics – the architects were able to blend both new and old elements to create the illusion that the contemporary extension is sailing over the original building.
www.lk2.co.uk
The £750,000 scheme completely transformed the 1940s Art Deco building, with eight teaching rooms and a meeting space being created
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Talking Point
For London especially, adding two storeys provides developers, businesses and homeowners the opportunity to create flats to rent
WHY SAJID JAVID’S HOUSING REFORMS AREN’T BOLD ENOUGH In a bid to solve the ongoing housing crisis, the Government last year released a Housing White Paper. By encouraging the creation of new builds, the White Paper was proposed in order to tackle underlying issues in the property market such as the lack of affordable housing, writes Paresh Raja, CEO of Market Financial Solutions (MFS). the Chancellor’s D espite decision to remove stamp duty for first-time buyers, over the past year there sadly have been no major reforms to the Government’s housing policy. Although this is understandable – as the 2017 General Election and the Brexit process have dominated all aspects of the political landscape – the failure to build on the policy initiatives set out in the Housing White Paper means that house prices continue to outperform wages, and demand outstrips supply.
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Rather than being a recent problem, housing affordability over the past 20 years has deteriorated according to the latest report from the Office of National Statistics (ONS). As the average price paid for residential property in England and Wales increased by 259% between 1997 and 2016; the average individual annual earnings increased by 68% in the same period. While property prices continue to rise and housing supply stalls, the Government needs to adopt a strategic policy framework
to combat these problems. Further inaction means that it will be even less obtainable for first-time buyers to get on the property ladder. With Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Sajid Javid, announcing changes to relax housing extension regulations earlier this year, it seems like the Government is finally ready to make bold policy decisions in the property market. Making it easier for homeowners and developers to add two additional storeys
Paresh Raja is the Founder and CEO of Market Financial Solutions (MFS) – a UK-based bridging lender offering tailored loan solutions. Prior to establishing MFS in 2006, Paresh was a Senior Professional Consultant whose experience extended from working in one of the top-five management consultancy firms to setting up an independent investment group.
on top of existing properties, the Government is thinking creatively in its attempts to improve housing supply. New policy ideas alongside the creation of the Housing Implementation Taskforce in January shows that Theresa May is ready to become far more focused in her Government’s efforts to reform the property market.
A good reform? Sajid Javid’s announcement about changes to planning permission is a step in the right
Talking Point
direction. Relaxing extension regulations, although seemingly minor, is practical and simply makes sense. Rather than increasing supply where there is less demand, the reforms provide extra homes where there is a lack of affordability and movement in the market; namely, in inner-city areas. For London especially – where demand for properties to buy or rent is highly competitive and increasingly expensive – adding two storeys provides developers, businesses and homeowners the opportunity to create flats to rent as well as building additional space to upgrade their existing home. A Market Financial Solutions (MFS) survey of more than 2000 UK adults found that the policy is not just practical but popular. With 81% of the UK not wanting to live in a newbuild housing development and 79% urging the Government to focus more on supporting the refurbishment or renovation of existing properties to meet housing demand, Sajid Javid’s decision to relax housing extensions provides the public with homes they actually want to live in.
Sajid Javid’s announcement about changes to planning permission is a step in the right direction
Are housing extensions enough? While recent efforts by the Government are welcomed by homeowners and businesses alike, relaxing extension regulations alone is not enough. The policy change only increases housing supply in highly populated areas by adding housing supply on existing builds. Lacking a strategy for new builds in a wider housing policy framework means the country isn’t able to keep up with heightened demand. The scale of the challenges in the property market is far too great for Sajid Javid’s reforms to act as a silver bullet. As the UK population is projected to grow by 3.6 million (5.5%) over the next 10 years – from an estimated 65.6 million in 2016 to 69.2 million in 2026 – the Government should be bolder in encouraging growth to keep up with demand in the property market. As I write, the Spring Statement is planning to
With 81% of the UK not wanting to live in a new-build housing development and 79% urging the Government to focus more on supporting the refurbishment or renovation of existing properties to meet housing demand, Sajid Javid’s decision to relax housing extensions provides the public with homes they actually want to live in
be addressed, where the Government has an opportunity to build on its recent reforms and start making a wider housing policy framework a reality. Although it has been reported that the Chancellor Philip Hammond has shortened down his Spring Statement to 15 minutes, there is still a possibility that there may be changes to the Government’s housing policy. Rather than repeating last year’s mistake in not adopting any of the initiatives outlined in the Housing White Paper, Theresa May must take a stand and start adopting a robust housing policy for the future.
www.mfsuk.com
Lacking a strategy for new builds in a wider housing policy framework means the country isn’t able to keep up with heightened demand
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Housing
Residents at the Shore Street housing complex in Fife are safe in the knowledge their homes and communal areas provide a dry and warm environment to live in and enjoy
COMMUNAL AREAS RESTORED FOR FIFE RESIDENTS
Here, Stuart Hicks from cold-applied liquid waterproofing specialist, Kemper System, explains the challenges and solutions during the renovation of a social housing development in Scotland. of T heanyrefurbishment social housing complex requires adequate planning to ensure budget and
time constraints are adhered to – not to mention the safety implications and potential disruption for residents.
With many projects needing to accommodate a high number of residents in-situ during repair works, it’s important to devise a
Project: Shore Street housing complex Location: Buckhaven, Scotland Waterproofing: Kemper System
strategy that is careful to avoid any unnecessary disturbance without compromising the specification of products or installation quality. For many contractors working in collaboration with a county council, certain design elements will need to be taken into consideration during specification. In the case of the Shore Street housing complex in Buckhaven, Scotland, managed by Fife Council, a quick yet durable solution was required to refurbish external terrace areas as water was penetrating through into residents’ garages and properties below. Not only did Fife Council require a robust waterproofing solution to avoid having to invest in these repairs again in the near future, but a quick and easy-to-apply system was essential due to the building still being occupied during the works. In addition to this, an aesthetically-pleasing finish to the waterproofing resin was required which still met budget limitations, as the terraces are outdoor, trafficked areas used daily by the residents – often to hang laundry out to dry or used as spaces to enjoy as a community. Now the refurbishment is complete, the residents in Buckhaven can appreciate their communal areas once more thanks to a cold-applied liquid waterproofing and surfacing solution from Kemper System.
Specification considerations
The housing complex required a quick yet durable solution to refurbish external terrace areas as water was penetrating through into residents’ garages and properties below
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With the specification requirements in mind, specialist maintenance contractor DeeBee chose Kemper System’s cold liquidapplied Kemperol 2K-PUR waterproofing solution, together with the compatible Kemperdur TC slip-resistant surfacing system to repair eight of the communal areas in need of refurbishment – totalling 456m2.
Not only did Fife Council require a robust waterproofing solution to avoid having to invest in these repairs again in the near future, but a quick and easy-to-apply system was essential due to the building still being occupied during the works
Brian Boos, Director at DeeBee, explains why Kemperol 2K-PUR and Kemperdur TC was an obvious choice for the refurbishment works at the occupied housing blocks, which minimised any potential disruption to residents. He said: “Once we surveyed the affected areas, we submitted a refurbishment specification to Fife Council which involved using Kemperol 2K-PUR to refurbish the terraces which were suffering from severe water ingress. It was a clear choice for us as we needed a quick and easy installation solution, yet with the durable qualities to keep whole-life costs down. “Because the system is also extremely versatile, we knew that specifying Kemperol 2K-PUR would provide a sound waterproofing solution for many years as the roller-applied system can be used on any flat surface – including terraces.”
resin, immediately followed by more resin on top to ensure complete saturation of the fleece. Once cured, the resin formed a seamless, elastomeric waterproof membrane that cannot delaminate, is UVstable and bonds directly to the substrate. Because the Kemperol 2K-PUR system is ideal for complex detailing, this also meant easy installation for operatives around details, such as existing plant boxes on the surface of each terrace area. The decorative Kemperdur TC surfacing system incorporating a coloured quartz finish was then installed,
providing a robust slipresistant surface finish. The installation team at DeeBee completed the refurbishment of the Buckhaven drying areas on time, to budget and specification.
Sustainable refurbishment Many local councils face a similar dilemma when undergoing housing conservation work – how to successfully refurbish buildings of the past to provide buildings for the future. Plans developed, and products specified must offer a
Housing
durable, long-term solution, as well as address the immediate challenges on site. Brian Boos continues to explain the potential health and safety risks on site if an unsuitable waterproofing system was specified. He said: “Kemper System’s waterproofing solution is eco-friendly, being derived from sustainable sources, as well as odourless which was an added bonus for the client, as work was able to be carried out whilst homes were still occupied. Residents could continue as normal with minimal waste removal or nuisance odours to disrupt them, and without the fire risk of hot works. “This project showcases just how versatile Kemper’s system is, and an ideal solution for a housing project of this kind. With a BBA-accredited 25-year service life, Kemperol 2K-PUR was the ideal choice for the drying areas at Buckhaven.” Now, residents at the Shore Street housing complex in Fife are safe in the knowledge that their homes and communal areas provide a dry and warm environment to live in and enjoy. Whilst the end client, Fife Council, has peace of mind that an effective and sustainable solution is in place, and will perform for many years to come.
www.kemper-system.com
Quality application Contractors first removed the existing hard landscaping to expose the concrete substrate on each of the terrace areas. Once the surfaces were cleaned and primed, operatives then applied the Kemperol 2K-PUR resin in a single wet-onwet process. The liquid resin was applied onto the drying areas using a roller, with a reinforcement fleece laid directly into the wet
With the specification requirements in mind, specialist maintenance contractor DeeBee chose Kemper System’s cold liquid-applied Kemperol 2K-PUR waterproofing solution, together with the compatible Kemperdur TC slip-resistant surfacing system
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Roofing, Cladding & Insulation
blown off by the wind; unsightly black staining down gable-end walls due to verges which do not shed rainwater properly etc.
From wet to dry
FIXING DRY-FIX
The switch from traditional wet-fix to dryfix was driven by changes to NHBC guidance
If properly specified, dry-fixed ridge, hip and verge systems create trouble-free roofs that remain maintenance-free for years. The new BS 8612 Dry-fixed Ridge, Hip and Verge Systems for Slating and Tiling will help both contractors and designers get it right, says Kevin Ley, Technical Manager at Redland. saw the J anuary publication of a new British Standard that governs the selection, quality and testing of important dryfixed roofing systems: BS 8612 Dry-fixed Ridge, Hip and Verge Systems for Slating and Tiling. This is a much-needed
document. There is a plethora of dry-fixed roofing products on the market and a widespread misperception that these are commodity products with little variation between brands – apart from price. That just isn’t the case, as some find out to their cost.
Dry-fixed products must be compatible with the tiles or slates on the roof, they must be correctly fixed and they must be properly designed. Failure to select the right systems leads to roofs with problems: verges that are hanging from the edge of the roof; ridge tile and verges
Prior to BS 8612 the dry-fix ridge, hip and verge market has been largely unregulated other than via third-party certification, and so this is why the market has been crying out for the implementation of a British standard
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Though dry-fixed products have been on the market for decades – Redland introduced its very first dry verge in 1966 – demand has burgeoned over the last five years. As a result, there’s also been a growth in the number of companies supplying lower cost, and often lower quality, products. The switch from traditional wet-fix to dry-fix was driven by changes to NHBC guidance. In 2011, NHBC analysed its claims figures and discovered that 60% of them were related to roofs and of all roof-related claims, over half involved mortar. This obviously led to new NHBC guidance in 2012 which said that all bedded ridge and hip tiles had to be mechanically fixed; and then to the revised version of BS 5534 Slating and Tiling for Pitched Roofs and Vertical Cladding – code of practice in 2014 which regularised these changes. As a result, many developers have migrated to dry-fix systems as they are far faster to fit than double-fixed wet systems. Clearly, as the number of dry-fixed roofs increases so does the risk of problems related to dry-fixed systems. Sometimes these problems are caused by failures in the products and systems themselves. It could be that the fixing systems cannot withstand the wind loading, the adhesive on the ridge roll has not stuck adequately to the roof tiles, or the physical design of a verge causes water to run down the face of the wall. We have seen some other manufacturers’ verges that have been perfectly installed but, due to their design, have caused extensive staining after only a few years. In the worstcase scenario, if these problems are not dealt with, the wall of the property becomes damp with all the ensuing issues that can cause. In other situations, installers are to blame. For instance, we hear of the wrong type of fixings being used – whatever came to hand – to fix a roof verge piece or in some cases; there are no
Roofing, Cladding & Insulation fixings at all because the roofer has wrongly assumed they are not needed. This problem is often exacerbated by the product arriving without any fixing instructions. Prior to BS 8612, the dry-fix ridge, hip and verge market has been largely unregulated other than via third-party certification, and so this is why the market has been crying out for the implementation of a British standard.
Getting it right The new standard aims to ensure that none of the above problems occur. It talks about material properties, dimensional tolerance, required performance and how dry-fix systems should be tested to demonstrate that they conform and are fit for purpose. One important new requirement is testing for resistance to wind uplift and horizontal forces. While BS 5534 currently says that dry-fix verges and ridges can be used if they can withstand wind uplift forces, it does not say how the products should be tested to verify this. The new BS 8612 defines tests to determine mechanical resistance to wind
Dry-fixed products must be compatible with the tiles or slates on the roof, they must be correctly fixed and they must be properly designed
load and shows how specifiers should use data from these tests to verify whether a product is suitable or not, given the wind exposure of the location under consideration. The standard also sets down a test for dry-fix ridge-roll products to measure whether they can meet the profile of the roof tile at ridges and hips without breaking or splitting. A third test checks whether roof verges shed the water away from the surface of the wall, to avoid staining and damp issues. The type and quality of the material are also specified, with respect to durability. Plastics must withstand UV exposure without significantly changing appropriate mechanical properties within certain limits. Ridge-roll products must cope with freeze-thaw cycles and the impacts of heat and humidity.
will be updated so that they meet the standard. In the meantime, specifiers must check that dry-fixed products meet the standard and that they are compliant with the slates or tiles on the roof. BS 8612 says that manufacturers must provide, if requested, a product declaration of performance which includes design resistance to wind-loading and states which tiles they can
be used with. They must also issue instructions – which the contractor must follow! It is important to get this right. Failures are costly and wasteful and distressing for the homeowner. Reputable manufacturers will be more than happy to provide technical information and advice on this subject to specifiers and installers.
www.redland.co.uk
Dry-fixed for the future Given the fact that the NHBC has been a driving force behind these changes we can expect it to mandate the use of dry-fixed systems that are compliant with BS 8612 in the near future. Over time, it is likely that all products
Clearly, as the number of dry-fixed roofs increases so does the risk of problems related to dry-fixed systems
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Technical Focus
The new fourstorey 5000m2 building replaces two former nurses’ hostels on Tennis Court Road
Simon Sainsbury T heCentre is built adjoining
All images ©Hufton + Crow
STANTON WILLIAMS EXTENDS CAMBRIDGE JUDGE BUSINESS SCHOOL Stirling Prize-winning architect firm Stanton Williams has completed a £21.5m expansion for Cambridge Judge Business School at the University of Cambridge, demonstrating the practice’s expertise in unlocking the potential of complex sites, and creating a versatile hub for post-graduate and executive business education. 18
Project: Cambridge Judge Business School Location: University of Cambridge Architect: Stanton Williams
the Business School’s Grade II Listed, John Outram-redesigned Addenbrooke’s building. This wonderful new space brings together all parts of the Cambridge Judge Business School community: pre-experience and post-experience students; EMBA participants; executive education clients; faculty; staff and external partners, enabling the Cambridge Judge Business School community to continue solving real-world problems with greater diversity and creativity. The new four-storey 5000m2 building replaces two former nurses’ hostels on Tennis Court Road along the eastern boundary of the site. It has been designed to complement rather than compete with the Outram building, which was completed in 1995 as a remodelling of the 18th- and 19thcentury hospital buildings. As well as providing flexible education spaces for the school’s executive education programme, the centre contains additional teaching, conferencing, office break-out and dining spaces for the school, reflecting the evolving culture of the university and the changing requirements of learning environments. Through the physical juxtaposition of old, new and the more recent past, the project demonstrates a complex layering of history which embodies the identity of the school whilst expressing its contemporary needs. Stanton Williams’ design is conceived as an extension to the original hospital, drawing inspiration from the historic masonry facade designed by Matthew Digby Wyatt. This rhythm of brick buttresses and fine stone columns sets the structural and material tone of the new building. The height of the hospital wards within the existing building establishes principal floor levels and room heights across the site, while the massing reinstates the scale of the original hospital campus, helping to anchor the school in its urban setting.
Technical Focus Internal spaces have been designed to promote interaction between students, delegates and staff through the provision of generous foyer and circulation spaces
FACADE PLAN DETAIL 1:15
Through the physical juxtaposition of old, new and the more recent past, the project demonstrates a complex layering of history which embodies the identity of the school
KEY: 1
Facing brickwork
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Metal sill
Slotted metal reveal panel 3
INTERIOR
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Trox heat recovery unit
Slotted timber veneer ventilation panel 3
EXTERIOR Use of strong colour and refined materials, juxtaposed with exposed structural concrete, references the bold colour, rich materials and exposed structure of both the 19th-century building and the 1990s Outram transformation. The resulting campus creates a unified identity that transcends individual period styles. Internal spaces have been designed to promote interaction between students, delegates and staff through the provision of generous foyer and circulation spaces. This engaging environment provides a sequence of spaces of different scales and characters, all with a strong sense of materiality and access to views. The centre is on track to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating for sustainability. It utilises an innovative strategy of distributed ventilation with the
5 Metal framed side opening glazed panel
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incorporation of 60 small heat recovery units within the building envelope to create a ‘breathing facade’. This use of the Trox system is the first of its type in the UK. “The new building will bring together all parts of our community under one roof while maintaining our position at the heart of the Cambridge cluster. In doing so, it will enable us to continue solving real-world problems in even more diverse and creative ways,” says Christoph Loch, Dean of Cambridge Judge Business School. “The Simon Sainsbury Centre embodies the identity of the school whilst fulfilling its contemporary needs, adding a further layer to the progressive transformation of this historic site,” concludes Gavin Henderson, Director at Stanton Williams.
www.stantonwilliams.com
The centre is on track to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating for sustainability
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Legal & Business
Simon Cross leads the team of specialists at BRE’s Building Futures, helping organisations to improve performance across the construction, use and deconstruction of buildings. Indepth research, software tools and advisory services offered by the team can help private and public sector organisations set and meet vital sustainability goals and reduce negative impacts on the environment.
Driving productivity is critical not only to individual companies but also the nation as a whole lest we slide into economic stagnation and even decline
BRE ISSUES WARNING TO CONSTRUCTION SECTOR TO URGENTLY INCREASE OUTPUT
Simon Cross, Director of SiteSmart at BRE and a member of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), says increasing productivity – now more than ever as we lead up to Brexit – should be the sector’s number-one priority this year. indicators T hepointeconomic to a challenging 2018 for Britain in the lead up to Brexit in 2019. The OECD forecasts the UK’s GDP will grow by only 1% in 2018. Construction, which accounts for around 6.7% of the UK economy and employs approximately 2.9 million (circa 10%) people*, therefore, has never been more critical to UK plc’s fortunes. Construction, however, has its own set of challenges, some as a consequence of Brexit others due to its traditional business models and long-term lack of investment in skills, technology, systems and processes. Indeed, ONS analysis shows over the three months from September to November 2017, construction output decreased by 2%. Brexit will surely exacerbate the skills shortages already being experienced as anecdotal evidence suggests muchneeded skilled workers from
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Europe are leaving the UK to return to their homelands. Furthermore, Britain is not producing in sufficient quantities UK nationals, via apprenticeships, to replace them. Given this gloomy scenario, driving productivity is critical not only to individual companies but also the nation as a whole lest we slide into economic stagnation and even decline. So, how can construction improve its productivity and what’s the potential benefit of doing so? Let’s start with the latter. I believe the construction industry has the potential to be 20 to 40% more efficient which would significantly increase operating margins (contractors are less than 1%), provide R&D capital and develop sector resilience. How that’s going to happen is through a combination of policy levers and market forces.
1 The recent (November 2017) presumption by five Government departments in favour of off-site construction across suitable capital programmes where it represents best value for money is hugely significant in real terms and as a signpost of the direction of travel. Standardisation will improve efficiencies in time, labour, materials and waste. It is already stimulating investment, innovation, R&D and encouraging disruption both from within our sector and by outsiders. The outlier could be an existing tech giant or a newcomer who transforms. I welcome them all. 2 The capturing, interpretation and application of data and the digitalisation of processes and systems to measure and benchmark KPIs drives productivity and profitability. It is an enabler and lifts up the sector to support growth and new business models.
The use of digital technologies (including BIM) analysis and decision-making has been the digital catalyst within the sector. Now the industry has to accelerate its adoption across projects throughout the entire supply chain – not only within functional silos – and across the asset’s whole lifecycle including post-occupancy and during maintenance. BRE's SiteSmart suite of tools – including YellowJacket and SmartWaste – help customers to measure their data, KPIs and other characteristics of their construction sites and projects. 3 Skills and training are essential to deliver productivity and increase profitability and to meet the adaptation to an increasingly technologicallydriven workplace, including on construction sites. For example, drones are regularly used on construction sites to aid project logistics. Robotics is an increasing factor in the workplace; all require human skills at many levels. 4 All in all, it stands to reason that better qualified and trained employees and contractors will be more efficient, innovative and likely have a higher level of motivation. Individually and collectively, these are characteristics that improve productivity and profitability.
www.bresitesmart.com *
HMGovernment https://www.gov.uk/ government/uploads/system/uploads/ attachment_data/file/229339/constructionsector-infographic.pdf
Here, PSBJ looks at some of the responses from within the industry to the Prime Minister Theresa May’s draft revisions to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
May’s recent T heresa announcement of a reform of the National Planning Policy Framework will encourage developers to stop sitting on land and build more houses once they have gained planning permission. Andrew Hayward, Managing Director at roofing tile manufacturer Russell Roof Tiles, comments on the announcement and advises whether it will help the current housing crisis. “Any focus at senior Government level which gives attention to all relevant parties and the need for speed and efficiency in the UK housing market can only be a good thing. However, it is not as simple as pointing fingers at developers who have not built on approved land. “This is because a number of factors may have a significant impact on the speed and delays in builds. This can include a lack of employee skillsets and the availability of skilled trades, the cost of the build, value for money as well as planning obstacles. “While it is good to hear plans to speed up the planning process even further, I suspect streamlining the criteria and process is key to its success.
“For contractors, the unlocking of potential new sites for house-building could also lead to an increase in business for many contractors supplying house-building developments and these changes may also see a quicker process required, with developers now requiring building material sooner rather than later. “Russell Roof Tiles is part of Crown Roof Tiles in the US and being part of an international group where housing is also in dire need – both in the US and Mexico – it is noticeable how much less red tape there is around planning in those countries and states. We, as a country, should look at other strong economic countries within Europe, with regard to speed and efficiency in planning and construction, irrespective of Brexit, and see what we can implement quickly to meet the 300,000 annual targets. “Education and skillsets are also inextricably linked to this target as well and should start in schools, not in planning or a developer’s office.”
Royal Institute T heof British Architects (RIBA) welcomes several of the revisions made to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) outlined by the Prime Minister Theresa May, however, stronger action is needed to support public sector investment in housing and prioritise design quality. RIBA President, Ben Derbyshire, says: “While there is much to welcome in these proposals, the stark truth remains that the housing crisis will not be solved without major direct investment by the Government and local authorities in housing and infrastructure. “We are pleased that the Government have listened to the RIBA and others about the importance of good design in new housing. The NPPF makes numerous positive suggestions that will support the ambitions of architects and developers to build more high-quality, sustainable and affordable new homes. “The proposals to change the rules on viability and
Legal & Business
WILL NPPF REFORM SOLVE THE UK’S HOUSING CRISIS?
developer contributions should provide greater certainty for developers and communities and lead to more transparent relations between those looking to build new houses and those who already live in the area. This is something the RIBA and others have long been calling for, and we hope the proposals will be welcomed by the whole sector. “The problems caused by developers who overbid for land and then use commercial confidentiality to avoid building affordable housing or providing the necessary infrastructure is a source of huge delay and destroys the trust that is vital to securing community support for new housing. “The Prime Minister was right to recognise the critical importance of turning planning permissions into new homes. Urgent action must be taken on delays in the planning system such as the overuse of planning preconditions which hinder development and cause design quality to suffer.”
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Education
Expansion projects within education often prove complex due to tight budget constraints as well as the ongoing need for schools to remain operational for as long as possible
ADOPTING A RAPID APPROACH TO THE SCHOOL PLACE CRISIS The UK’s school place crisis means that thousands of children will soon face not having a secondary school to go to unless swift action is taken. Here, Rodney Davidson at AG (Acheson + Glover) discusses the role that rapid build products can play in meeting the urgent need for extra classroom space quickly, within tight budgets to a standard that will stand the test of time well into the future. to a recent A ccording analysis of Department
Rapid build brick slip systems can also be retrofitted to extend the lifespan of existing school buildings/cabins
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for Education figures and local pupil forecasts by the Local Government Association, more than 125,000 children face missing out on a secondary school place by 2022/23. Amongst other factors, a significant increase in recorded birth rates has been shown to play a role. To successfully tackle the crisis, it is crucial that schools within the most severely affected areas expand their pupil capacity to prevent classrooms becoming dangerously overpopulated. Expansion projects within education often prove complex due to tight budget constraints as well as the ongoing need for schools to remain operational for as long as possible to ensure minimal disruption to the curriculum and academic performance. This is where rapid build products can be incredibly
useful due to their ability to save time through quicker installation and reduced downtime.
What are rapid build products? Rapid build products are construction products that have been innovatively created to act as efficient alternatives to their traditional counterparts. For example, in response to increased demand across the public and private sector for a brick product that was quicker to install compared to traditional bricks and was unaffected by external factors such as the weather and UK’s current bricklayer shortage, AG began producing and supplying NovaBrik. A mortarless brick slip system, it is incredibly strong, non-combustible and resistant to freeze-thaw cycles. In fact, laboratory testing has proven it to be as waterproof as a roof tile – an added bonus in
Education These rapid brick slip systems can be installed externally to pre-fabricated steel or timber frame structures, making it possible to produce the majority of the school building off-site
light of the UK’s unpredictable weather. Another benefit of this rapid build product is that it is fully recyclable and virtually maintenance-free. In the current climate where classrooms are in short supply, rapid build products provide a fantastic alternative.
Enhanced standards Rapid build products are often designed, produced and tested within strictly controlled stateof-the-art factory and laboratory environments. This gives added reassurance to buyers – for example, we work hard to ensure that NovaBrik is fully tested with fire rating, freezethaw resistance and impact abrasion. This helps ensure the building’s integrity as well as the long-term safety of pupils.
aim to complete expansion projects during holiday periods, something which is much more realistic with rapid build products.
Improving efficiencies Rapid build brick slip systems can also be retrofitted to extend the lifespan of existing school buildings/cabins, which helps improve thermal properties of school building – in turn, reducing heating bills and increasing
efficiency. Furthermore, they can improve acoustic properties and listening conditions of the rooms within the building, by effectively controlling the amount of sound travelling from outside in.
Building a brighter future The rapid build product market provides reliable solutions that effectively meet increased demand within education
for high-quality products at realistic prices that are superior compared to their traditional counterparts. Although the UK appears to be on the brink of a classroom crisis, through continued innovation, providers can, and will, continue to help tackle the issue and effectively safeguard school places for pupils well into the future.
www.ag.uk.com
Taking things off-site These rapid brick slip systems can be installed externally to prefabricated steel or timber frame structures, making it possible to produce the majority of the school building off-site. This is especially useful within education, where great emphasis is placed on maintaining day-to-day termtime activity. In fact, most schools
Rapid build products can be incredibly useful due to their ability to save time through quicker installation and reduced downtime
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Healthcare
‘Cool’ blues and greys are complemented by the light balance in the northern hemisphere and, as a result, look more desirable
A WORLD OF COLOUR
Are your design choices influenced by your geography? David Brailsford, Altro’s new Product Introduction Manager, looks at surfaces for healthcare around the world and explores the influence that climate and light, as well as cultural and social conventions, may have on the choices we make.
There will always be a balance to strike between providing healthcare environments that meet user expectations, and those that push the boundaries of design
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sector T hehashealthcare traditionally posed challenges for designers and architects when it comes to specifying materials that can be used on floors and walls. Products and finishes have to meet stringent criteria, including enhanced safety requirements, hygiene of the highest standards and legislative obligations. Thankfully, we now have a wide-reaching range of options that satisfy these requirements, whilst offering far more flexibility when it comes to aesthetics. Unsurprisingly, the advent of greater design choice – more extensive colour palettes, designs and finishes – brings about a melting pot of creativity and style, even in a sector such as healthcare where function must remain the highest of priorities. As a global company, Altro’s team around the world report on trends and developments in their home markets, and these influence the way we plan and develop our products of the future.
healthcare environments; in the Middle East; paler pastels are proving a hit. These are, of course, generalisations, with cultural influences playing a significant part in many design styles seen in all these areas.
The science of colour
Colour and wellbeing
Colour temperature, in its most simplified definition, is a method of describing the colour characteristics of light, and is measured in degrees Kelvin. Designers are wellversed in considering colour temperature when it comes to interior lighting, using warm or cool lighting to create mood or ambience as well as providing artificial light of the correct colour temperature helping those with visual impairment. We see this played out on a much bigger stage with nature’s variations in colour temperature around the world. Essentially, colours are not fixed. In reality, an object’s appearance results from the way it reflects the particular light that is falling on it. For example, an apple we see as red appears red under a white light as it reflects light in the red portion of the wavelength. If a filter is used to remove red from the light source, the apple reflects far less light and could appear black. We see the same principle (though a far less extreme version) played out in the way colours look in different countries. As you move north away from the equator, natural light becomes bluer and has proportionally less red light. As a result, ‘warm’ colours that look lovely and vibrant nearer the equator look less intense in the northern hemisphere and the further north you go the more evident the change. ‘Cool’ blues and greys, however, are complemented by the light balance in the northern hemisphere and, as a result, look more desirable. This goes some way perhaps to explain variation in trends we see in healthcare across the world. In the US, warm, beige tones are particularly popular for flooring; we may see richer, warmer hues in Mediterranean countries; in Scandinavia, white, cool blues, light greys and dark greys make for stylish
There is no doubt that aesthetics and design have a huge part to play in creating environments that are calming, healing and therapeutic. The very nature of healthcare environments mean that people using them may be feeling higher than normal levels of anxiety or fear, not to mention pain and sickness. This is especially true with mental health design, where it’s been proved time and again that creating the right environment can make a world of difference. There has been a very definite move towards creating ‘home-from-home’, warmer healthcare environments, deliberately stepping away from the colours that may have represented a colder, clinical traditional approach. There is also the desire for designers and architects to create the unexpected, to defy convention, to shake up traditional mainstream healthcare design whilst remembering that care homes and areas catering for the needs of those with dementia require a more traditional and familiar approach.
Healthcare
Getting the colour palette right is a hugely important part of any new product introduction, made even more complex if those products are to be used in different countries across the world.
There is no doubt that aesthetics and design have a huge part to play in creating environments that are calming, healing and therapeutic
Worldwide trends There will always be a balance to strike between providing healthcare environments that meet user expectations, and those that push the boundaries of design. Currently, some of the biggest projects worldwide can be found in GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries where the healthcare market is reportedly set to grow by 11 to 13% over the next five years in response to population growth and a commitment to develop world-class healthcare services. We’ll be keeping a close eye on how that market influences healthcare design around the world, and maybe shapes the palettes of the future.
www.altro.co.uk
In the US, warm, beige tones are particularly popular for flooring
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Facades & Rainscreen Cladding
STYLE AND SUBSTANCE FOR INNOVATIVE UNIVERSITY BUILDING
The building forms part of a large complex of teaching, learning, research and social spaces within Garthdee Campus
Booth Muirie’s versatile rainscreen cladding has helped a Scottish university to bond style with sustainability in a multi-million-pound building development.
on the Garthdee L ocated Campus at Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, the steel-frame building is home to a library, social areas and a number of different academic departments. The building forms part of a large complex of teaching, learning, research and social spaces within Garthdee Campus. It facilitates interdisciplinary projects and acts as a central hub for students, lecturers and the public by incorporating the schools of life sciences, pharmacy, engineering,
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Project: Garthdee Campus Location: Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen Architectural cladding: Booth Muirie Architect: BDP Glasgow
computing, art and architecture and the built environment. The £120m development was designed with the environment in mind with a focus on minimising energy consumption and maximising energy efficiency, in keeping with the university’s sustainable and environmental aims. Booth Muirie enjoys over 50 years in the construction industry and was specified for this project due to the excellent environmental performance, ease of installation and stylish finish provided by its wide
range of cladding systems. The brand is now part of the Euroclad family, itself a leading light in metal roofing and cladding systems. An ideal choice for this project, Booth Muirie supplied its popular BML120 rainscreen cladding due to its versatility and excellent environmental performance. The cladding system offers a high level of performance in weathertightness, loading and movement, thermal and moisture performance, acoustics, fire performance,
operable components, safety and service life. BML120 is a mechanicallyfixed, open joint rainscreen system which uses a tongue and groove jointing method to combine the panels that are attached to the preengineered vertical rails for a trouble-free installation. This system was specified by main contractor, Miller Construction, due its high construction standards and ability to provide close tolerances for joints and panel alignment.
Facades & Rainscreen Cladding An ideal choice for this project, Booth Muirie supplied its popular BML120 rainscreen cladding due to its versatility and excellent environmental performance
3000m² of the BML120 rainscreen system was supplied for vast sections of the university building’s external facade in a complementary colour palette of metallic silver, metallic dark grey and patina green
With the ability to fix to all kinds of sub-structures, the BML120 system is ideal for new-build developments such as this
With the ability to fix to all kinds of sub-structures, the BML120 system is ideal for new-build developments such as this, as well as refurbishments, and comes in a range of colours, finishes and natural metals to suit all building designs. Installed by a specialist contractor, 3000m² of the BML120 rainscreen system was supplied for vast sections of the university building’s external facade in a complementary colour palette of metallic silver, metallic dark grey and patina
green to create an aestheticallypleasing design. The panels were able to realise the curves of the building design, created by architect practice BDP Glasgow, to create smooth lines and enhance the aesthetics, while retaining durability and meeting the required performance standards. The flexibility of the system also allowed the incorporation of a design feature using the patina green panels on a curved part of the building that carries into the interior.
Bill Somerville, Head of Estates at Robert Gordon University, commented: “The rainscreen cladding had to adhere to the standard of building envelope deemed suitable for the new building, as well as meet the design requirements of providing panel alignment that created an overall cohesive appearance, especially to curved areas. The quality and aesthetics of the rainscreen panels provided by Booth Muirie have achieved the performance standards and appearance we were looking
for, and we are very happy with the final result.” The innovative building also employs a number of green technologies, including the use of ground source heating, to achieve the university’s eco-friendly aims. The overall environmental performance of the building has resulted in it achieving the Centre for Window and Cladding Technology’s standards for systemised building envelopes.
www.boothmuirie.co.uk
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Naidex Preview
Naidex will once again bring over 12,000 visitors from all over Europe together for the 44th time, from the 25 to 26th April, at the NEC, Birmingham
ACCESSIBILITY AND INCLUSION – THE FUTURE OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT AT NAIDEX Accessibility is still an issue in 2018. Lack of inclusion in the built environment comes as a challenge to many in their daily lives, and a great deal more than you’d think – 13.3 million people, approximately. In light of this, Naidex – the Europe-leading disability event – has decided to address the issue in a bid for positive change.
how it can be used to assist in gaining independence, by integrating standard consumer equipment as opposed to requiring expensive custom-designed ‘accessible’ hardware. Technology in the built environment’s benefits also spans to the healthcare sector. Sensory Guru is a virtual and augmented reality brand renowned for creating technology that is redefining the boundary between the virtual and physical worlds. Its CEO, Lee Blemings, will be uncovering the advantages that these emerging technologies can have for people with ASD and dementia, living in residential settings.
Naidex Naidex will once again bring over 12,000 visitors from all over Europe together for the 44th time, from 25 to 26th April, at the NEC, Birmingham. Providing educational insight into future trends in accessible designs, world-class speakers, product demonstrations, one-to-one advice, networking opportunities and new interactive features, Naidex will showcase the future of disability and the built environment.
www.naidex.co.uk year, Naidex will be T his introducing the Home,
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Design & Build Summit – an area of the show dedicated to the exploration of accessibility in the built environment. Industry-leading experts will be delivering seminars looking at today’s situation and finding the solutions of tomorrow. Here is a look at some of the topics that will be covered at this year’s Naidex.
both people with and without disabilities can understand the need for inclusive homes. Elaine Hollerhead, Founder of DESIGNATE, will explain how architects and designers are looking to combine functionality, safety and inspirational concepts to make homes more attractive to potential buyers, increasing both wellbeing and property value in her seminar at Naidex.
The new look of inclusion
Technology taking over accessibility
A new wave of inclusive architects have emerged to change the way people perceive accessibility. Inclusive Home Founder, Vaila Morrison, will explain how and why accessible designs need to be promoted more within home design media so that
Smart homes are becoming more prominent and are a great tool for independence for people with disabilities. Macro Level Smarthomes’ Founder, James Kinsman, will explore in his seminar the advances in commercial smart home technology, and
This year, Naidex will be introducing the Home, Design & Build Summit – an area of the show dedicated to the exploration of accessibility in the built environment
Leisure
REDEVELOPMENT FOR GOSPORT LEISURE CENTRE AS DEMAND FOR FACILITIES INCREASES
Project: Gosport Leisure Centre Location: Gosport, South Hampshire Leisure design and build specialist: Createability
The whole area was fitted with a fully sprung Juncker floor, and air conditioning units were installed along with LED lighting and floor-to-ceiling mirrors on one wall
Gosport Leisure Centre has reopened boasting a brand-new dance studio and extended car park following significant redevelopment by leisure design and build specialist, Createability. popular centre, T hemanaged by Places for
Work at Gosport Leisure Centre wasn’t straightforward, as Createability soon discovered the centre’s electrical supply ran straight through the footprint of the proposed extension
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People Leisure (PfPL) on behalf of Gosport Borough Council as part of a Design, Build, Operate and Maintain (DBOM) contract, first opened just five years ago, but with high demand for the facilities, further space was needed to extend its activity programme. James Dumper, Centre Manager at Gosport Leisure Centre, commented: “When the centre opened in 2012 it was successful beyond all expectations, with latent demand exceeded by over a third. We have continued to work with Gosport Borough Council, who funded the development work, to ensure the centre continues to cater for all reaches of the community.”
To make way for the brandnew 270m2 studio, the existing ground floor studio was reduced in size enabling Createability to build an access corridor to the extension, which also houses two internal equipment stores. The whole area was fitted with a fully sprung Juncker floor, and air conditioning units were installed along with LED lighting and floor-to-ceiling mirrors on one wall, with an integrated balance bar. A new audio system was also fitted. Dumper continued: “The new downstairs studio is larger than the previous upstairs room, and it’s also able to cater for disabled customers and those with medical conditions, where using the stairs would be difficult.”
To make way for the brand-new 270m2 studio, the existing ground floor studio was reduced in size enabling Createability to build an access corridor to the extension
The redevelopment is part of PfPL’s commitment to providing new, innovative and sophisticated leisure centres in a bid to increase participation rates
Leisure
The old downstairs studio was converted into a dedicated indoor cycling studio. The car park has also been extended by 24 standard bays and an additional disabled parking space. The redevelopment is part of PfPL’s commitment to providing new, innovative and sophisticated leisure centres in a bid to increase participation rates. In the last year alone, PfPL has invested a significant sum in improving its facilities and equipment. Createability has worked on a number of projects with PfPL in recent years, including the redevelopment of Knightwood Leisure Centre, an extension to Middleton Pool to provide the centre with a fitness suite and a project to create modern, fitfor-purpose wet-side changing facilities at Kingfisher Leisure Centre, Kingston. However, work at Gosport Leisure Centre wasn’t straightforward, as Createability soon discovered the centre’s electrical supply ran straight through the footprint of the proposed extension. Createability’s Project Manager for the redevelopment, Mark Walters, said: “We had to remove two of the centre’s astroturf football pitches to allow for new electrical supply cables to be installed and then relay them both, but we managed to carry out the work with no interruption to either the centre’s electric supply or daily functions. We also had to divert the gas main without affecting the heat of the pool or the hot water supply as it ran through the proposed car park extension. It was a challenge, but we managed to ensure the centre remained open at all times and customers could continue with their usual exercise routines.” Dumper concluded: “The extension has enabled Gosport Leisure Centre to provide more activities and classes for all the community. We have been able to provide the latest stateof-the-art fitness equipment including new Stages bikes for our group cycling classes, along with the larger studio spaces for classes, community groups and rehabilitation classes.”
www.createability.co.uk
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Sports Pitches
With ISP needing a high-quality football product that would also serve for a multitude of other sports, the group specified TigerTurf’s Premier Pro 60
UNDER THE WEATHER
Getting maximum use from a sports facility is a common consideration for many within the education sector. So, with regular bad weather rendering its existing double pitch out of action for much of the winter, the International School of Prague (ISP) recently looked to a solution that would provide adequate playing time all year round. to soil type and D ueweather conditions, the school’s natural grass facility had to be closed from November until March each year. During that time the pitch was unusable, forcing staff to take lessons or extracurricular
activities elsewhere for a significant portion of the academic calendar. Recognising the problem, ISP began to work on a solution that would not only extend its own use of the space but enable it to open out the facility to others
in the local area. The school appointed specialist contractor, A Sport Produkt, to lend its expertise to the project. With ISP needing a highquality football product that would also serve for a multitude of other sports, the group
Immediately, the school was able to get more from the space, with the facility now open every day during the academic year
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Project: International School of Prague Location: Prague, Czech Republic Turf supplier: TigerTurf
specified TigerTurf’s Premier Pro 60. Built to conform to the FIFA Quality Pro mark, the impressive design of the artificial grass surface meant the school could benefit from the exceptional performance needed, as well as up to 38 hours playing time each week. As the first full-size installation of one of TigerTurf’s 3G surfaces in the Czech Republic, the project was an instant success across the two pitches. Immediately, the school was able to get more from the space, with the facility now open every day during the academic year. Better still, ISP soon began to receive offers from local sports clubs and community groups who were interested in using the surface. As interest in further rentals continues to grow, this has opened up a new revenue stream for the school – enabling a quick return on its investment. Joe Monks, the school’s Activities Director, commented: “Our old field could only be used during the school day between September and November, before it was then closed until March. It was clear we needed a new, multi-use games area to accommodate the school’s growing sport offering for a longer period of the academic year. “This versatility was key when it came to designing the new double pitch. Instead of two football pitches, we went for a combination of colours and lines to maximise the possibilities for use. “The new sports field is now open every day of the school year, even in the winter and after bad weather. On top of that, the facility has attracted numerous sports clubs that we now rent it out to. At the moment, the additional revenue we make from the pitch stands at around £5000 a year, which helps to offset ongoing maintenance costs and ensure we can keep the facility in perfect shape.”
www.tigerturf.co.uk
Floorcoverings
Noppe stud tiles in the Limestone Green, Steel, Black Coal, Mercury, Cobalt and Cool Blue shades were fitted throughout classrooms and the computer suite
Project: Keith Green Building Location: School of Architecture, Loughborough University Floor manufacturer: Polyflor
INSPIRATIONAL SPACE FOR ARCHITECTURE STUDENTS AT LOUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSITY SaarFloor Noppe Stud Tile flooring in a variety of colours was recently used to help create an inspirational, educational environment in the refurbished Keith Green Building, home to the School of Architecture at Loughborough University.
as the “devoted D escribed home to Architecture”, the School of Architecture’s Keith Green Building is intended to “be used as a ‘living’ lab, rather than treating the building as a finished object”. Noppe stud tiles in the Limestone Green, Steel, Black Coal, Mercury, Cobalt and Cool Blue shades were fitted throughout classrooms and the computer suite which are used by undergraduate and post-graduate students on the university’s architecture courses. Noppe stud flooring is a hard-wearing rubber tile with a low-profile studded surface for heavy commercial use, available in 12 colours with a 3.0 or 4.0mm gauge. Over 1000m² of this flooring in six different shades was installed by Lincoln-based construction and interior fit-out specialist, Acorn Partitions & Storage Systems (APSS).
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A spokesperson for APSS commented: “We specified the Noppe stud tiles as we needed a highperformance flooring product
that would add a touch of subtle colour and pattern to the interior design scheme. We’re delighted with the finished result, and we believe
SaarFloor Noppe Stud Tile flooring installed in the Keith Green Building at Loughborough University
this will be an ideal teaching and learning environment for Loughborough’s students.”
www.polyflor.com
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Green Roofs
Extensive Extensive component green roof systems consist of multiple layers including drainage, filter, substrate and sedum/wildflower mat.
GRASS IS GREENER ON THE ROOF
Green roof constructions improve the heat and noise insulation of a building structure, have an air purifying effect, catch rainwater and discharge it at a delayed rate
The green roof segment harbours a great deal of potential and will become increasingly significant as climate change continues. Cities are expanding, and the global population is growing steadily. As building development increases, natural green spaces are clearly being lost, but this process can be supplemented with green roofs.
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effects T hethatpositive green roofs have
Taking responsibility for the environment
on buildings, people and the environment above all else are therefore incomparable to any other building concept. Green roof constructions improve the heat and noise insulation of a building structure, have an air purifying effect, catch rainwater and discharge it at a delayed rate, enhance the area’s biodiversity and have added aesthetic value. Single-ply EPDM waterproofing membranes, such as RESITRIX and HERTALAN, are compatible with every green roof structure, which means you are free to choose types of vegetation. Self-adhesive bitumen-backed membranes are hot air-weldable and also root-resistant. In addition, EPDM membranes can be cut and bonded to bespoke sizes for fast installation. The EPDM system can be fitted as a membrane (fewer seams during installing, resulting in a reduced risk of leaks) and will generally exceed the lifespan of the vegetation layer. EPDM green roof construction is the most environmentally-friendly choice as a waterproof layer under roof vegetation.
Some of the market-leading membranes like RESITRIX only contains ecologically-safe components and no hazardous additives such as chlorine or plasticisers. These membranes can be classified as completely nontoxic and, unlike other common materials or currently used roof systems, it does not release any chemicals into the atmosphere throughout its entire service life. The lifecycle analysis (environmental impact) of fully bonded membranes can also be assessed as being very positive, according to an independent study (CREM study). All the relevant processes throughout the entire lifecycle were considered during the study. Taking the various fixation methods and the products’ long service lives into account, EPDM membranes are an ecofriendly choice with regard to its environmental impact. EPDM membranes are recyclable, which ensures that we also meet our responsibility towards the environment in this regard.
Why EPDM? A waterproofing system used on flat roofs has much to endure. Above all, moisture, thermal
and mechanical stresses (wind, sun, cold, precipitation and so on) lead to serious material demands which quickly age many waterproofing systems. It is no wonder that the procedure for producing EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber) received a Nobel Prize. Due to its molecular structure, EPDM has outstanding material properties.
Types of green roof Intensive Intensive component green roof systems consist of multiple layers including drainage, filter, substrate and a wide range of landscaping options depending on the substrate depth. Key features Comprises four layers: drainage, filter, substrate and landscaping options Easy installation with pre-grown vegetation for instant effect Delivered in palletised form System with water storage capacity Variety of different species: well-rooted and grown to maturity A greater choice of seasonal variation in plants and colours Create recreational space.
Key features Comprises four layers: drainage, filter, substrate and sedum/wildflower mat Easy installation with pregrown vegetation for an instant green Delivered in palletised form Lightweight system with water storage capacity Variety of different species: well-rooted and grown to maturity Offers seasonal variation in colour including a vivid flowering season to attract pollinators Blankets may be installed on sloping surfaces of up to 30º. Biodiverse Biodiverse component green roof systems consist of multiple layers including drainage, filter, substrate and a plantation determined by nature dependent on the substrate depth. Key features Comprises four layers: drainage, filter, substrate and natural plantation Easy installation Create natural habitat for plants, birds, animals and invertebrates to thrive Delivered in palletised form System with water storage capacity Natural choice of plantation complementing your local surroundings. Modular Modular green roof systems comprise four layers: drainage, filter, substrate and sedum. Key features Easy installation with an exceptional sedum growth coverage Delivered in palletised form with a maximum number of 66 modules per pallet (15m2) Lightweight with a high water storage capacity Eight to 10 different sedum species are well-rooted and grown to maturity.
www.ccm-europe.com
CUBE ONE SHAPE, ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES FROM A FLEXIBLE, ROBUST AND HIGHLY EFFICIENT EXTERIOR LUMINAIRE The Cube LED exterior luminaire series offers a versatile solution for lighting designers and architects. The design is a study in clean lines and minimal form which takes the shape of a cube and can be mounted as either a floodlight, wall wash effect feature or on ground bollard. A wide range of beam angles and accessories allow comfortable viewing from any angle. Extremely precise beam spread optics offer the opportunity to create specific light effects. To see further models in the range please visit our website.
www.concord-lighting.com
Tel: 0800 440 2478
HVAC & Electricals
After the installation of a Nor-Ray-Vac system in the high bay and main locomotive shed at Orient Express 28 years ago, the system needed replacing
REZNOR STEAMS AHEAD IN RAILWAY INSTALLATION
Stewarts Lane railway depot, Battersea, has been providing maintenance and stabling for the South East’s rolling stock since 1862 and was, at one point, the largest locomotive capacity in the Southern region. One of the depot’s main uses today is for the maintenance of the prestigious Orient Express. the installation of a A fter Nor-Ray-Vac system in the high bay and main locomotive shed at Orient Express 28 years ago, the system needed replacing. Orient Express approached Multigas and asked for assistance with the replacement of the existing system and an
additional two areas that were previously unheated. Entrance and exit doors often occupy the full width of the building and may be left open for many hours a day. When doors are open at both ends, a wind tunnel effect is created and cold air at high velocity is drawn into
The Nor-Ray-Vac system combusts the fuel at the point of use enabling maximum efficiency with no distribution losses and has a rapid response to changed conditions
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the shed. Keeping the shed warm enough for employees to work comfortably is compounded by the often north-south alignment of the tracks, which allows very little sunshine to warm the interior. Nortek Global HVAC was able to offer the ideal heating and most effective and economic heating solution under the Reznor brand. Blanket heat coverage was not a necessity in the rail shed as only the areas where personnel are working needed to be heated. When operatives are working on one part of the train, zoning enables all other parts of the radiant heating system to be switched off. Over time, this produces considerable fuel economies and cost reductions. Economy and effectiveness were the two key criteria specified when selecting the heating system for the rail maintenance
shed. Finding a solution to both in a single heating system can be challenging. One form of space heating technology, ideally suited to this cold, inhospitable working environment, is the Nor-Ray-Vac radiant tube heating system. The project was completed in three stages. Phases one and two are where the complete rebuild of the carriages takes place for the Orient Express trains and were previously unheated bays. Phase one – an area of 41 x 15m and 7m high – saw the installation of the Nor-Ray-Vac system consisting of six 24kW burners with one flue discharge. Phase two – an area of 30 x 15m and 7m high – saw the installation of a Nor-Ray-Vac system consisting of six 18kW burners with one flue discharge. Phase three was the high bay and the main locomotive shed where the steam locomotives are maintained on a regular basis. The Nor-Ray-Vac system was an exact replacement of the original to minimise installation costs. The high bay area – 30 x 20m and 12m high – saw the installation of the Nor-Ray-Vac system consisting of 10 18kW burners with one flue discharge installed going around the perimeter of the bay, below the crane beam. The main locomotive area – 77 x 15m and 7m high – received a Nor-Ray-Vac system consisting of 18 18kW burners arranged in three zones with two flue discharges. The Nor-Ray-Vac system combusts the fuel at the point of use enabling maximum efficiency with no distribution losses and has a rapid response to changed conditions. It is uniquely designed to accommodate the building constraints and required zoning for the method of working within the shed. The flexibility of the radiant heating system meant that specific areas could be heated as required by the work patterns within the shed, keeping staff warm. Orient Express now benefits from a radiant heating system capable of maintaining the depot in a comfortable environment well into the late 2030s.
www.nortek.com/europe ryan.ashley@nortek.com 01384 489700
HVAC & Electricals
Groupe Atlantic UK & ROI division partners with Macmillan Cancer Support Groupe Atlantic UK & ROI division, comprising market-leading brands Ideal Boilers, Gledhill, Keston, Hamworthy Heating and Atlantic Heat, has announced it has partnered with Macmillan Cancer Support as its official charity. Over the course of the year, Groupe Atlantic will be launching a number of initiatives to support Macmillan. This includes a contribution from the sales of all Groupe Atlantic products, including domestic and commercial boilers, cylinders and electric heating panels. Shaun Edwards, CEO of Group Atlantic UK & ROI Division, says: “Raising money for charity is something everyone in our division loves. From cake sales to sporting events, and with a staff of over 1000, there is something for everyone to take part in.”
www.idealcommercialboilers.com commercial@idealboilers.com 0844 543 6060
New Scotland partner for specialist boiler manufacturer Keston, a British manufacturer of light commercial and domestic boilers, has appointed HVRS (Heating, Ventilation and Renewables Sales) Scotland. With vast experience of building services, the team is made up of dedicated sales engineers who cover the whole of Scotland from the Borders, up to the Highlands and islands. Up until the appointment, Keston operated with limited coverage in Scotland – HVRS is now able to give the brand more geographical exposure. Charlie Newell, Senior Business Development Manager, said: “We needed a strong partner in Scotland to help contractors and specifiers in the market looking for bespoke heating solutions to their projects. HVRS fitted the bill and will be a great asset to the business.”
www.keston.co.uk
info@keston.co.uk
01482 443005
One look and you’ll be hooked Concord, by Sylvania, has developed a stylish luminaire that takes office lighting to a new level. The unique Curvelyte is more than just a lighting tool; it is a piece of design-led architecture in its own right, designed to add to the interior decor rather than detracting from it. Curvelyte has been developed using three key founding principles; to deliver a unique design, utilise innovative technology and create a sense of drama. The design of Curvelyte is its most important feature; the curved lines create a clean, sharp and sleek luminaire. Its ultra-thin design ensures it does not intrude into the space and the bevelled edge gives the look and feel of superior quality.
www.concord-lighting.com info.uk@feilosylvania.com 0800 440 2478
@psbjmagazine
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Floors, Walls & Ceilings
Mapei launches Mapetherm Flex RP – a flexible, ready-mixed skimming base coat Mapetherm Flex RP is a ready-mixed, cement-free flexible skimming base coat that is extremely elastic and, due to added BioBlock technology, is resistant to the biological attack of mould and algae. Developed by Mapei’s worldwide research and development laboratories, Mapetherm Flex RP is excellent for repairing deteriorated insulating systems and/or micro-cracked render to form reinforced skim coats on insulating panels and thermal insulation systems. Thermal insulation systems offer protection from bad weather and help to contain energy losses which can be costly and increase the levels of CO2 emissions. These systems sometimes require maintenance and, in worst cases, may need to be completely removed and replaced. If the damage deterioration has been
identified in time, it’s possible to carry out repairs using a technologically suitable product and, if applied by skilled workers, the intervention will be reliable, durable and economically advantageous. Mapetherm Flex RP contains versatile characteristics that have been successfully used to carry out repair and maintenance work that is efficient and has an aesthetically-pleasing finish. An innovative use of resin ensures that Mapetherm Flex RP is highly elastic. It also adheres perfectly to insulating panels, old and new render, organic and cementitious skimming compounds, paint and coatings
including those deteriorated – as long as they are sound, well-bonded to the substrate and do not suffer from rising damp. A high impact strength also ensures that impact loads are dissipated by its elastic structure.
www.mapei.co.uk info@mapei.co.uk 0121 508 6970
Remmers exhibits at Hayward Gallery
YBS SuperQuilt specified by sciencebased builder
A regional-based building contractor has used large quantities of YBS SuperQuilt during the conversion of a five-bedroom Oxfordshire home into two high-quality flats. Khalil Khabiri of Renovat3d commented: “Building control favoured the use of Celotex or a similar rigid insulation material, but that would have encroached too much into the room, and been a lot more expensive than using SuperQuilt. We ended up buying some 28 rolls of SuperQuilt through John Nichols, a local builders’ merchants, and have used it to improve the thermal performance, doing minimum damage while effectively making each flat into a ‘bubble’. It has also provided a significant improvement in terms of sound reduction between spaces.”
www.ybsinsulation.com sales@ybsinsulation.com 01909 721662
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The world-renowned Hayward Gallery is a contemporary art gallery within Southbank Centre, London. As part of a two-year restoration project, Remmers’ restoration products were selected by Cemplas to complete extensive concrete repair and renovation works to the internal architectural concrete elements of this prestigious major arts venue. Remmers’ Arte Mundit was applied to remove the decades of superficial dirt that had built up on the concrete walls and ceilings. Arte Mundit is a self-vulcanising cleaning paste that dries into a peelable natural latex. It provides thorough water-free removal of residues to varied substrates, and there is no development of dust making it the ideal product for specialised restoration projects.
www.remmers.co.uk
sales@remmers.co.uk
01293 594010
Altro retains place in prestigious Sunday Times Top 100 Altro has been ranked 83 in the coveted Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For 2018 list. This is the 11th time the family-founded company has featured in this prestigious list. With more than 1000 companies registered to take part, it is considered the most extensive research into employee engagement carried out in the UK. Altro’s 350 UK employees were invited to take part in the survey, which asked questions about how the support they receive from the company, their training and development and opportunities for career growth, amongst others. The company again scored well, showing a continued commitment to employees.
www.altro.co.uk
enquiries@altro.com
01462 707604
Heradesign solutions create intelligent acoustics The purpose-built Office of Postdoctoral Affairs (OPdA) at the University of Cambridge creates a nurturing environment for some of the world’s brightest minds. The centre’s bespoke support facilities are designed to help stimulate thought, share knowledge and provide networking opportunities for postdoctoral researchers who play a vital role in the university’s world-class research. Heradesign acoustic ceilings and wall absorbers from Knauf AMF were chosen as part of the vision for Saunders Boston Architects which wanted an organic, raw aesthetic featuring exposed services and uncamouflaged building materials.
Heradesign is a popular choice for specifiers who want to produce a less processed, simpler aesthetic. Research shows that connection to the natural environment can improve overall wellbeing. Heradesign is manufactured
Mapei launches Dursilite Gloss – a semi-gloss enamel paint Dursilite Gloss is an internal enamel wall paint based on special acrylic and polyurethane resins and has a smooth, semi-gloss finish that enhances the brightness of colours.
Floors, Walls & Ceilings
from sustainable wood-wool sourced from PEFC- and FSC-certified forests. Its naturally textured surface offers a sense of comfort helping occupants feel in touch with nature. Visitors to the OPdA are welcomed in the open-plan reception where a Heradesign ceiling raft provides Class A acoustic control and creates visual impact. This design aesthetic continues into the centre’s circulation areas and multifunctional spaces. The large meeting room can be divided into two. When used in this configuration, the acoustic demands are particularly challenging. Heradesign ceiling rafts and wall absorbers work together to provide additional acoustic control, limiting the transference of unwanted sound, ensuring speech can be heard and understood in both spaces. Heradesign wall absorbers are highly durable. They protect the centre’s circulation areas from knocks and damage and still look pristine. Heradesign offers the highest class for impact resistance: Class 1A. Heradesign’s outstanding sound absorption improves privacy for researchers by ensuring unwanted noise does not travel from the stairwells to adjoining rooms.
www.knaufamf.com info@knaufamf.co.uk 0191 518 8600
Dursilite Gloss allows you to create a high-end finish, is durable and resistant to yellowing and thanks to its polyurethane resin content, is highly resistant to staining and can cope with the most rigorous cleaning regimes and comes with a Class 1 wet-scrub resistance, which conforms to EN ISO 11998. Dursilite Gloss bonds perfectly to all types of wall, plaster, skim coats and old paintwork that are sound and wellbonded; it also has good hiding power and is easy to apply. An elegant, high-quality finish is achieved when using Dursilite Gloss in residential or commercial environments. Due to its hard-wearing protection, excellent cleanability and low dirt pick up, Dursilite Gloss is recommended for use in areas that are used by the general public that are particularly exposed to high wear and dirt. Dursilite Gloss, along with all products within the Dursilite product family, can be tinted using the ColorMap automatic tinting machine. Other products within the Dursilite Gloss family include Dursilite Plus and Dursilite Matt.
www.mapei.co.uk info@mapei.co.uk 0121 508 6970
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Landscaping, Waterproofing & Drainage
APPROACHES TO ANTI-TERROR PROTECTION ARE SHIFTING Vehicles have become the weapon of choice for terrorists and to mitigate this new threat, security experts have largely focused on erecting temporary measures, such as concrete barriers and metal barricades. But, these can create fear among the public. Jaz Vilkhu, Managing Director of Landscape Protection at Marshalls, argues that those protecting busy urban spaces should consider a holistic, more aesthetic approach. large complex bomb F rom plots to vehicle attacks, the terrorist threat is evolving. The longer it takes to plan an attack and the more people involved provides our security services with a greater chance of disrupting them. So rather than expose their efforts to this risk, terror organisations are shifting their approach – stripped down to an individual with motivation, intent and access to a vehicle, the gap between planning and execution has been reduced to a matter of hours and minutes. This method is incredibly difficult to detect. There have been eight vehicle attacks across Europe since January 2017 alone, and the threat of future plots has seen anti-terror barrier installations erected around busy, urban areas to help protect the public. But while these measures send a visible message that Governments are taking security seriously, they imply that the threat is very real. The very action of fortifying our town and city centres is increasing the fear that people feel, and this can all too easily translate into action, with falling footfall severely hitting businesses and urban areas.
Cutting the threat perception Addressing this issue should be of equal priority for security experts alongside
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introducing measures that can prevent attacks. Late last year, Stefano Boeri, a leading Italian Architect, specified planters to protect Florence’s Government buildings and squares from vehicle attacks, which are more in-keeping with the surrounding environment than military-style barriers. This represents a significant shift in thinking, and forms part of the multi-layered, aesthetic, more holistic strategy we’re seeing security experts, architects and planners consider. According to joint research Marshalls conducted with IFSEC Global, 79% of architects have seen the number of projects requiring aesthetic protection increase over the last three years, and almost all believe the demand will rise sharply moving forward. The approach is designed to reduce the threat long before a vehicle can reach its target, with protective measures that integrate well with the surrounding environment. The first step involves reducing the speed and mitigating the angle that a vehicle can approach a target, which can be done redesigning the layout of the road infrastructure and adding in traffic-calming features – think chicanes, speed bumps, width-restricted lanes and the creation of pedestrianised
The threat of future plots has seen anti-terror barrier installations erected around busy, urban areas to help protect the public
areas and ‘buffer zones’, which redirect traffic away from people. Additional kerbing can then be specified to prevent any rogue vehicles from mounting the footpath and deflect them back onto the carriageway. The landscape furniture then acts as the final line of defence. But rather than using concrete blocks and metal barriers, we’re seeing more security experts and architects take the approach adopted by Stefano Boeri and use planters, seating, little bins, lighting columns, cycle stands and bollards. While they may look fragile, they are built with PAS 68/IWA 14.1-certified cores – the latest Publicly Available Specification for products used in hostile vehicle mitigation. A single piece of this landscape furniture can stop a 7.5-tonne articulated lorry travelling at 50mph.
While preventing vehicle attacks is clearly key, finding the right balance between security and keeping measures out of sight and out of mind should be a priority given the potential social and commercial impacts concrete blocks and metal barriers can have.
www.marshalls.co.uk info@marshalls.co.uk 01422 312000
Rather than using concrete blocks and metal barriers, we’re seeing more security experts and architects take the approach adopted by Stefano Boeri and use planters, seating, little bins, lighting columns, cycle stands and bollards
Charcon has helped transform a once disused area into a multi-use public space in the heart of Bethnal Green. The Oval is now fully accessible with safe seating areas, attractive lighting and a versatile stage area. Appointed by contractor JB Riney for London Borough of Tower Hamlets, 300m2 of Andover Textured Block Paving in White, Silver Fleck and Light Grey was supplied, as well as 300m2 of Andover Textured Paving in White Grey and White. Both products were chosen due to their stylish appeal and exceptional durability. Abhinav Kurup, Project Architect from London Borough of Tower Hamlets, added: “Charcon helped create an eye-catching design with its premium block paving and we’re thrilled with the result.”
www.charcon.com
landscaping@aggregate.com
01335 372222
Drainage maintenance boost for city’s highway system Lanes Group has completed a three-year programme of maintenance work to survey, clean and repair strategic highway drainage pipes across Portsmouth. Teams from the drainage specialist’s Eastleigh depot worked with Colas to carry out surveys, desilting and repairs along 20km of largediameter highway drains. Colas, which manages highway infrastructure for Portsmouth City Council via a Private Finance Initiative (PFI), commissioned Lanes to carry out the work as part of a process of incorporating the main drainage pipes along strategic routes into its maintenance programmes. Services delivered over the three-year period included highway drainage line desilting and root cutting, CCTV drainage surveys, drainage system mapping and pipe rehabilitation through the installation of structural point liners.
www.lanesfordrains.co.uk
The
sales@lanesgroup.co.uk
0800 526488
app
Access Safeguard’s damp- and waterproofing technology in one handy volume
Landscaping, Waterproofing & Drainage
East London space transformed with creative hard landscaping
Safeguard has updated its essential product guide. It covers the Dryzone, Stormdry, Vandex, Oldroyd and Brickfix brands, to name a few. Product areas include: rising damp, replastering, damp-proof coatings, condensation and mould, rain penetration, masonry repair, basement drainage and tanking and waterproofing in general. New to the collections are Drybase and Roxil. The Drybase range is designed for use when it is not possible to protect building materials and interior surfaces from the sources of dampness, like rain penetration or rising damp. The new Roxil Outdoor Protection range consists of high-performance cleaning and waterproofing materials.
www.safeguardeurope.com info@safeguardeurope.com 01403 210204
Public Sector Build Journal
for iPhone, iPad and Android Free download available now BROWSE | SPECIFY | SOURCE | DIGEST The smarter way to access news and products for the sustainable building market. With its easy-to-navigate format, users can benefit from a variety of useful tools, such as the magazine’s latest issue, digital archive, suppliers and newsbank. The App is also synced with SBP Library (www.sustainable-buildingproducts.com) providing an essential specification portal.
swipe to see more!
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Doors, Windows & Facades
COMAR 7P.I CDE COMMERCIAL DOOR
Comar specifiers and fabricators can be reassured by Comar 7P.i CDE’s secure, flexible design options
Comar Architectural Aluminium Systems, part of TPG (The Parkside Group), has announced the launch of Comar 7P.i CDE, a commercial swing door with electronic locking that now holds a Secured by Design licence. Comar 7P.i CDE is an T heelectronic lock option for the thermally broken commercial swing door range, which offers access control integration for both single- and double-leaf doorsets. Secured by Design Homes 2016 requires that occupants, of a residential building with 10 or more distinct dwellings, must be able to remotely control the main entrance door from their apartment to allow access to known visitors. The Comar 7P.i CDE is ideal for multi-dwelling apartment applications, where the electronic lock sits in with most access control panels and includes panic exit hardware options. The solution can also be used in all matter of public buildings where occupant safety is required, such as health, education and other public buildings. Comar specifiers and fabricators can be reassured by Comar 7P.i CDE’s secure, flexible design options. Achieving PAS 24:2016 in double-leaf swing doors is particularly challenging to pass on a test, as the doors resist a 4.5kN loading as well as a manual attack test. Double-leaf doors are often called for on residential buildings as they allow facilities teams and occupants ease of access for bulky objects such as furniture, yet still provide
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uncompromised security and convenience for day-to-day access where only a single leaf is commonly used, the Comar 7P.i CDE provides this solution. Comar 7P.i CDE has been added to Comar’s BSI Kitemark for enhanced security which incorporates testing to BS 6375 Parts 1, 2 and 3, for a high-traffic entrance door. This means that the Comar 7Pi CDE has been tested and certified to 50,000 open and closing cycles, which is a requirement of the Secured by Design licence. The Comar 7P.i CDE lock uses magnetic triggers, located in the keeps, tripping the sprung loaded locking points, which snap ‘locked’ almost instantly when the door is closed. This provides a ‘fail locked’ environment that immediately protects a vulnerable resident returning home, even in the event of a power failure or vandalism. Not only does the Comar 7P.i CDE integrate with access control systems, but it also has been tested with the FUHR’s Panic Exit crash bar, helping designers meet fire safety demands while providing PAS 24:2016 level of security and high traffic resilience. Comar’s lever door handles also integrate with the lock, their operation manually reloading the sprung mechanical locking
points. Together with the magnet triggered instant locking, which helps prevent criminals following occupants into their building, the Comar 7P.i CDE offers unparalleled functionality. Comar 7P.i CDE has a comprehensive range of accessories, available direct from Comar, including a remote-control key fob, a wireless push pad and hardwired switches. The Comar 7P.i CDE also presents advantages in fabrication, including the need for only four machined ‘pockets’ in the lock and keep stiles, plus a one-piece lock, thereby, speeding up assembly times and reducing workshop errors. A single cable provides the lock with power and signal simplifying the routing in the frames. To cater for structural tolerances on site, adjustable raised keeps are available to ensure the locks engage correctly.
www.comar-alu.co.uk projects@parksidegroup.co.uk 0208 685 9685
Comar 7P.i CDE has been added to Comar’s BSI Kitemark for enhanced security which incorporates testing to BS 6375 Parts 1, 2 and 3, for a high-traffic entrance door
The Comar 7P.i CDE is ideal for multi-dwelling apartment applications, where the electronic lock sits in with most access control panels and includes panic exit hardware options
Focus & Innovation
Resplendent bronze for the South Bank
The client selected a fabulous shade, IGP’s ‘Young Bronze’, for its bright and vibrant effect, maximising the elegance of the building’s sweeping curved elevation on the corner location. Powdertech is an approved applicator for IGP and provided several samples before coating the facade elements which included balcony soffit and fascia panels for floors two to seven, canopy soffit at street level, roof capping, louvres, drain pipes and rainwater hoppers. The high-performance powder and Powdertech’s rigorous pre-treatment system will help to keep the facade free from corrosion for up to 40 years.
Powdertech Corby has been busy coating over 2400m2 of facade elements for an exclusive, eight-storey boutique development situated on London’s South Bank, with panoramic views over Lambeth Palace, and across the Thames to the Palace of Westminster. This is a retail-residential mixeduse building providing 55 private apartments. Sited in an exposed position close to the River Thames and busy roads, the exterior of the building needed a robust coating to withstand such conditions without corroding and to retain a smart, well-kept
appearance. “Our six-stage chrome-free pretreatment process for aluminium ensures that the metal is already protected before the final coating is applied,” explains Richard Besant, Powdertech Director.
www.powdertechcorby.co.uk pcl@powdertechcorby.co.uk 01536 400890
PCA unveils two-day event to tap into debate over excess moisture in homes The Property Care Association (PCA) has unveiled the agenda for a unique two-day event, which brings together a national and international perspective to investigate a major issue currently affecting UK properties – excess moisture in buildings. The trade body’s 2018 International Residential Ventilation & Preservation of Buildings Conference takes place on 14 and 15th June at The Slate, University of Warwick, Coventry. To accommodate the significant interest shown in the subject, the event has moved from the PCA’s traditional one-day property care conference format to a two-day event this year. The agenda for the first day includes an insight into residential ventilation, which the PCA says is critically important to tackle issues with a new generation of humid homes. The second day looks at preservation in buildings, including defects in cavity wall insulation, the specification of pre-treated timber and
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an overview of the threats from emerging insects to timber in UK construction. Speakers and panellists include representatives from the RICS, the University College London Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering (UCL IEDE), UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings and Bangor University. Dr Fernanado SarceThomann of Chile will give an international perspective on acceptable limits of moisture in homes. The conference is open to both PCA members and non-members alike. As well as the conference, the PCA has a range of initiatives to address the increase in excessive atmospheric moisture in buildings being reported in UK homes.
They include the development of a Residential Ventilation Group (RVG), the publication of a ‘Code of Practice for the Investigation and Provision of Ventilation in Existing Dwellings’ and a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with the University College London Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering (UCL IEDE).
www.property-care.org/conferences pca@property-care.org 0844 375 4301
Focus & Innovation
Knauf brings revolutionary render to UK market Knauf, a UK-leading manufacturer of lightweight building materials and systems, is introducing a radical new render system, Knauf MineralAktiv, to the UK market. Designed to inhibit the growth of surface algae and fungi, the system addresses the most common problem associated with render finishes using a patented biocide-free composition. The clean, contemporary aesthetics offered by render is a popular choice for specifiers, but the cool and often damp climate of the UK can quickly lead to disappointing discolouration because of the growth of algae and fungus on the surface. Some products tackle the problem by including biocides in the formulation, but this approach offers only a temporary solution as the biocide effect wears off over time. Knauf MineralAktiv, on the other hand, addresses the root of the problem by providing a naturally inhospitable environment. Fungus and mould both need damp and neutral PH conditions to flourish, so the formula of MineralAktiv addresses both of these issues.
A long-lasting hybrid binder maintains high alkalinity for years while advanced moisture management works in combination with an IR absorber raising the surface temperature, increasing evaporation and limiting moisture on the render surface. These two characteristics ensure the finish remains bright and clean for years without the need for regular cleaning. Knauf MineralAktiv consists of a topcoat and paint which can be used independently or in combination for maximum protection. Suitable for both new-build and refurbishment projects, Knauf MineralAktiv is available in 230 colours described in the Knauf Colour Concept Chart.
Advanced safeguards £260m Bradford leisure complex with industry-leading fire panels
www.knauf.co.uk info@knauf.co.uk 01795 424499
Nortech parking systems improve efficiency at Tewkesbury Hospital
Meyer Bergman’s £260m shopping and leisure complex, ‘The Broadway’ in Bradford, is being protected by industry-leading fire panels from Advanced. At the heart of The Broadway’s active fire protection system, which covers all areas of the shopping centre, is a network of 10 Advanced MxPro 5 intelligent multiprotocol panels. This is augmented with a TouchControl touchscreen repeater panel, a special evacuation zone control package, a BMS interface and a bespoke PC-based graphical user interface. The network was designed, configured and commissioned by Carlton Fire Systems, a long-time Advanced partner, with the installation of equipment and cables being undertaken by Pitts Wilson Electrical. Advanced protects numerous retail destinations around the world, including Westfield Stratford City, East London and Harvey Nichols’ Birmingham store.
Access control system specialist Nortech has recently seen Gloucestershire Care Services NHS Trust update and improve Tewkesbury Community Hospital’s car park using Nortech’s FeeMaster system. Nortech’s FeeMaster range was installed by entry control system specialist ASGuk, which was appointed by Gloucestershire Care Services NHS Trust to design and install a parking control system to stop visitors misusing the site’s car park. ASGuk selected Nortech’s FeeMaster parking system as part of the design, which includes the FeeMaster Smart Entry Station, FeeMaster Smart Exit Station and a number of FeeMaster Smart Consoles for inside the building. The console allows the staff to control any misuse of the car park and ensures that there are enough parking spaces for visitors and patients.
www.advancedco.com sales@advancedco.com 01670 707111
www.nortechcontrol.com sales@nortechcontrol.com 01633 485533
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LEVATO MONO
Porcelain paver system and coordinating internal tiling The Deck Tile Co’s new website www.surface360.co.uk now has +150 colours and finishes in their Levato Mono 20mm porcelain ranges plus co-ordinating internal tiling – enabling seamless visual transition between internal and external spaces.
20mm porcelain pavers 40x80 45x90 60x60 75x75 80x80 30x120 40x120 60x120
Highly abrasion and stain resistant Highly slip resistant ; R11 AB+C
Ideal for balconies, roof terraces and piazzas, for both commercial and residential use
‘Floating floor’ – installation over single ply membranes Eternal product - zero maintenance required – offering massive over-life savings
Lightweight – 45kgs per m2 High load bearing and impact resistance Timber, stone & cementitious effects
Frost proof Height adjustable/slope correcting support system ranging from 9mm up to 550mm
Completely non porous
INTRODUCING OUR NEW WEBSITE: WWW.SURFACE360.CO.UK