Home Designer & Architect - August 2018

HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

MAGAZINE August 2018

Glass Lifting & Handling www.hird.co.uk

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The MustangÂŽ Aluminium Seamless Gutter System is a leak-free, low maintenance and cost effective alternative to UPVC for any pitched roof.

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HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

Image: January Furniture Show p18

CONTENTS August 2018

4 10 22 38 42

Industry News Editor’s Choice Bathrooms, Washrooms & Kitchens Lifts, Stairs & Balustrades Windows, Doors & Architectural Hardware

CONtact US Danny Callan

Publication Manager

Jenna Burridge Editor

01843 581364

danny@homedesignerandarchitect.co.uk

01843 595818

jenna@homedesignerandarchitect.co.uk

INDUSTRY news

RIBA Stirling Prize shortlist announced The six shortlisted buildings that will go head-to-head for UK architecture’s highest accolade have been unveiled This year’s RIBA Stirling Prize shortlist of six includes a highly-innovative new workplace in the City of London which pushes architecture’s boundaries and seeks to enhance the neighbouring public realm (Bloomberg) by Foster + Partners; a poetic Jewish cemetery constructed using rammed earth walls (Bushey Cemetery) by Waugh Thistleton Architects; a high-quality exemplar of student housing for Roehampton University, built on a commendably modest budget (Chadwick Hall) by Henley Halebrown; an ingenious reconfiguration and extension of the Post-Modern Tate St Ives (New Tate St Ives) by Jamie Fobert Architects with Evans & Shalev; a fascinating contemporary community centre inspired by the college cloisters and courts of Cambridge for the new residents of North West Cambridge (Storey’s Field Centre and Eddington Nursery) by MUMA LLP; and a theatre which floats above the grounds of Worcester College Oxford (Sultan Nazrin Shah Centre) by Niall McLaughlin Architects.

All six have been expertly and thoughtfully designed to bring joy to the people that use them and represent great and worthy investments made by civic-minded clients.

They look out towards the public realm, stimulate their users, and go above and beyond to enhance their surrounding areas.

Bloomberg thoroughly re-thinks a City workplace and brings the well-being agenda to the fore. Working closely with the client, Foster + Partners have designed a building the looks like it belongs in the City. By reinstating an old Roman Road (Watling Street) and creating a museum and gallery space underneath the office, Bloomberg not only services its employees but improves the area for the general public.

The New Tate St Ives has made a similar impact: despite its visibly modest exterior, the reconfiguration and extension of the Post-Modern building has had a tremendously positive impact on the local community and its growing international audience. Clad in spectacular faience tiles which reflect the tonal variation of the Atlantic beyond, the extension more than doubles the gallery space and creates a new public walkway directly from the town to the beach.

This year there has been a rise in the use of masonry and traditional craft, which perhaps signals a movement away from the age of steel and glass in favour of materials which have a natural tactility and gravitas.

With a simple form and restricted materials – rammed earth walls, English Oak and rusted steel – Bushy Cemetery is another extraordinary community-led building with the spirit, beliefs and customs of the Jewish users at its heart.

Half of the buildings on the shortlist have also been commissioned by UK universities providing well-designed, quality environments for their communities to live, study and socialise. Chadwick Hall at the University of Roehampton provides much-needed, quality housing for over two hundred students in London in three new buildings surrounding the Grade II-listed Georgian Downshire House. With a cleverly designed articulated concrete façade, many student rooms are fit with wide-opening windows and balconies which look out onto newly-created social spaces.

The two buildings funded by Oxbridge clients both seek to reflect the history and permeance of the Universities themselves.

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Created for the growing community of North-West Cambridge, Storey’s Field is a outstanding, contemporary nursery and community centre with a sustainability agenda at its core. Its detailed elevations with vertical projections, stepped brickwork entrances, visible steel rainwater pipes and overflow spouts give the building a tactile gravitas and portholes draw the eye into the courtyard inside. Elegantly disguised from afar and monumental up close, the Sultan Nazrin Shah Centre similarly provides spaces for both academic and community events at Worcester College, Oxford. Raised on a podium and crafted from a classic Oxford stone combined with natural Oak, McLaughlin’s building blends exquisitely into the established College landscape.

The six shortlisted buildings will now go head-to-head for UK architecture’s highest accolade which will be announced on Wednesday 10 October.

INDUSTRY news

FBM Architects secures outline planning consent for Gascoigne West Estate FBM Architects has secured outline planning consent from the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham for designs for the regeneration of the Gascoigne West Estate, a 850 home development.

The project will have a significant transformational impact on Barking Town Centre and FBM has worked closely with Be First, the council’s regeneration company, to ensure the designs complement the neighbouring areas of Abbey Road and Gascoigne East; providing the optimum mix of housing and community services.

Simon Fraser, Director at Fraser Brown MacKenna Architects, said: “We have taken a very sensitive approach to the site’s historical context connecting and improving the existing townscape to create an attractive people-friendly scheme for the long-term benefit of local communities.”

The planners, who endorsed the £250 million project, agreed that the development would result in a muchneeded regeneration of the 2.4ha low density area, providing significantly more and better-quality housing, in a mix of sizes, in a safer and healthier designed environment.

LDA Design to become an employee-owned business Independent creative consultancy, LDA Design, is to become an employee-owned business The company behind the masterplan of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park celebrates its 40th year in business next year and employs 150 people.

The move to employee ownership is part of an ambitious programme, which this year includes opening three start-up studios in Bristol, Cambridge and Manchester.

“This move is a bold and exciting one for us. The Board wants to share the business to grow it, and believes this to be the right way to secure a long and bright future,” explains Andrew Harland, LDA Design Chairman.

Pat Hayes, Managing Director of Be First, which is leading the project, said: “We aim to surpass the quality and design standards that we have set at Gascoigne East, offering hundreds of badly needed, new homes for local people at a range of rent levels and prices. This is a huge milestone for this exciting project, which will make much better use of the space, with more traditional street patterns and green spaces.”

Councillor Cameron Geddes, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Social Housing, said: “It is fantastic to see good quality proposals being drawn up that capture a mixture of realistic renting and affordable buying opportunities for local residents.” A further planning application is expected in late 2018 with the work on site estimated to begin in 2019.

“We have always wanted LDA Design to not be about individual egos but the brilliance of the collective. That aim holds true, and we want to see a future where all of our employees can help to shape our business. This will put us in an even stronger position and make succession planning easier.”

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NATURAL WOOD

Much of the fine grain detail needs to be ironed out. Harland estimates that it will take about two years to complete the process and to set up an Employee Ownership Trust.

LDA Design’s landscape-led approach connects people and place. The practice is made up of masterplanners, urban designers, landscape architects, ecologists, and town and environmental planners.

Whether it is a garden village, new station, park or urban district, LDA Design starts with what people need and want.

Learn more

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INDUSTRY news

Government launches fire regs consultation The consultation, which runs until October, seeks views on the proposed clarification of statutory guidance on fire safety

he Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has launched a consultation seeking views on proposed changes to building regulations.

The government is proposing changes to Approved Document B, which provides statutory guidance on fire safety, to make it easier to use and reduce the risk of misinterpretation by those carrying out and inspecting building work.

The idea is to clarify the text without changing the underlying requirements.

Proposed clarifications, suggested in Dame Judith Hackitt’s (pictured) review of building regulations, include using plain English, reduced cross referencing, a single system of classification for fire performance and changing the structure of the document to make it more logical.

The MHCLG said this should reduce the risk of confusion in routes to compliance with the building regulations.

Clearer guidance should also reduce on-site delays and mistakes arising from confusion around the current guidance.

The consultation, which runs until 11 October, gives respondents two options to choose from; an option which would see the regulations remain unchanged and another which would see them clarified.

Costings provided in the consultation suggest clarifying the guidance would save £2.4m a year for 10 years.

The consultation said there would be a one-off transition cost of £12.9m as those who work with Approved Document B familiarised themselves with the proposed changes.

It also estimated that less time would be spent on resolving uncertainty or disagreements.

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Energy efficient Grade II listed building The Portman Estate have sensitively refurbished a Grade II listed building to the Passivhaus EnerPHit standard, the highest energy efficiency standard for refurbishments in the world Tucked away behind 21 Gloucester Place in London sits 2 Gloucester Place Mews, a modest listed building constructed in the early nineteenth century as a rear mews to the esteemed Gloucester Place. The Portman Estate has displayed its innovative approach to refurbishment and sustainability by sensitively retrofitting the building, which is Grade II listed, to Passivhaus standard.

The Passivhaus standard was developed in Germany in the early 1990s and is a rigorous, voluntary standard for energy efficiency in a building.

2 Gloucester Place Mews has been retrofitted to Passivhaus EnerPHit standard – a subcategory within the Passivhaus standard that is the highest energy efficiency standard in the world for refurbishments.

This standard far exceeds current UK building regulations, which could take years to catch up to Passivhaus technology.

Aside from being one of London’s most energy efficient homes, 2 Gloucester Place Mews offers its residents a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. The home comprises three en-suite bedrooms, including a spectacular master bedroom with an enormous walk in wardrobe; a spacious, open-plan living area, large kitchen and private garage complete with charging point for an electric vehicle Only a handful of buildings in the UK’s private rental sector have been refurbished to this standard, providing a unique opportunity to secure a sustainable, historic home in one of London’s most prized locations. As well as supporting the environment, those who live in a Passivhaus have reported experiencing a better night’s sleep due to the excellent indoor air quality in Passivhaus buildings. The excellent indoor air quality also improves general health, quality of life and wellbeing.

INDUSTRY news

Blokable sets up first affordable housing unit Blokable’s first housing unit arrived in Edmonds over the weekend. The Seattlebased housing and technology company manufactures the units in Vancouver.

Blokable won’t reinvent the wheel, but its hopes to reinvent housing construction are officially rolling.

The Seattle-based housing and technology company, whose plug-and-play homes are designed to cut time and costs to build housing, drove its first 260-square-foot studio apartment to a church in Edmonds over the weekend, where it was quickly installed.

The debut blok traveled about 180 miles from its manufacturing plant in Vancouver to the Edmonds Lutheran Church.

The blok was then craned off a truck and plugged into utilities in about three hours, co-CEO Nelson Del Rio said.

“Everything went perfectly. It was nice to see it go in,” he said of the Friday installation.

But the blok won’t house anyone just yet. Del Rio said it was mainly used to showcase its product to the city of Edmonds, where it hopes to build a 70-unit housing complex soon.

“In a way it is a show-and-tell because that first unit, the community has to be able to see it and touch it and know that it’s going to add value to the community — not subtract from it,” he said.

Blokable’s products take aim at the affordable housing crisis. The firm is developing technology to mass produce the units for far cheaper than current market rates, then ship them to a construction site. The units also sport built-in software and sensors to make them easier to maintain.

Because this unit was the first to make it through an entirely new production process, Del Rio said the company expects its investments to start yielding rapidly made and less expensive units.

“This one is an (accessory dwelling unit-style studio),” he said, noting that the same process can be configured to make several housing types. “The next one is one that connects horizontally and vertically over three stories.”

Blokable’s next project is a small communal project in Auburn, made up of seven one-bedroom units and five studios, Del Rio said. After that, he hopes to start on its larger project in Edmonds, which will be built in partnership with the housing nonprofit Compass Housing Authority.

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Kitchenaid Celebrates Christmas In July KitchenAid, the luxury appliance manufacturer of both small and major domestic appliances, has celebrated Christmas in July at its Experience Store, located in Wigmore Street, London.

The KitchenAid Experience Store is stylishly arranged over two floors and is the perfect environment to inspire kitchen designers, budding bakers and serious chefs alike. The venue was transformed into wondrous and festive backdrop, featuring a giant advent calendar and plenty of merry cheer.

In collaboration with a selection of luxury brands, the dazzling Christmas in July event showcased the stunning range of major domestic appliances from KitchenAid, all of which offer a perfectly balanced mix of iconic design and professional performance. Brands including Bailey’s, Guittard Chocolate Company and Kilner all offered visitors sumptuous tastings and demonstrations.

serious about food. Festive treats, including chocolate orange spiced brownies and steamed mini Christmas pudding bon bons, were prepared and served by chef Lisa Marley, and her husband Nathan, using a selection of KitchenAid major domestic appliances.

Lee Collett, Channel Controller, Kitchen Studio & KitchenAid Brand, says: “Appliances from KitchenAid are designed to inspire and take the user’s culinary expertise and creativity in the kitchen to the next level. This is the first event of its kind that has been hosted at the KitchenAid Experience Store, and we are thrilled to provide visitors an opportunity to experience the magic that KitchenAid major domestic appliances offer.”

The Experience Store encompasses a fully functional demonstration kitchen, which highlights KitchenAid’s dedication to supporting those who are

For more information on the KitchenAid range of major domestic appliances, please contact your account manager or visit the website at www.kitchenaid.co.uk

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The KitchenAid Christmas in July event

Editor's Choice

Innovation in Lifting Keeping up with Building Design Challenging new building designs need new façade construction techniques.

That is why innovative equipment supplied by Hird, such as the Winlet glazing and materials handling robot, is in such strong demand.

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ini crane, glazing installation and powered access specialist Hird is the authorised UK and Ireland dealer for Winlet glazing robots, which one client has called the biggest step forward in glass installation in 10 years.

The Danish glazing robot is compact, light and easy to move. It can lift, carry and place, with absolute precision, glass sheets or any other non-porous panels up to 1,000kg, even overhead.

Hird Director John Wilding said: “More than ever before, architects and developers are taking account of advances in construction process, as they seek to minimise development costs by reducing build times, and simplifying construction techniques.

“The Winlet increase productivity by 50% on a range of sites, including high-rise towers in London. As well as being faster, it’s safer, and uses smaller installation teams.

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“Architects are always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in design. Our aim is to provide lifting equipment that allows structural engineers and contractors to keep up.”

Other lifting equipment supplied by Hird include pick and carry cranes and spider cranes, both of which are ideal for a range of construction tasks, including glazing and façade erection.

Hird is also a UK leader in vacuum lifter hire, for flat or curved sheets, and loads up to 3,500kg – plus a full range of powered access machines, including scissor lifts, cherry pickers and personnel masts.

Hird Managing Director Phil Hird said: “We aim to be a one-stopshop for materials handling and lifting, and working at height, anywhere in UK. “Whether our clients need pick and carry cranes, with a range of materials handling attachments, or all-terrain spider cranes, we can meet their needs.”

For more information about Hird equipment, call 0203 174 0658 or email info@hird.co.uk. Web: www.hird.co.uk.

Glass Lifting Applications for domestic & commercial projects Glass Vacuum Lifters Glazing Robots Glass Trolleys & Stillages Mini Cranes AS FEATURED ON

Mini Cranes

Vacuum Lifters

Glazing Robots

Glass Trolleys / Stillages

Northern 01482 227333 Central 01302 341659 Southern 0203 174 0658 Email: info@hird.co.uk www.hird.co.uk

Editor's Choice

Kestrel mechanical on site for care home with rinnai new hot water delivery systems Rinnai hot water – instant, continuous, limitless and sensibly economic for every type of commercial site

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estrel Mechanical Services of Sevenoaks, Kent, has recently completed a complete refit of hot water heating systems at a wellknown care home in the South East of England.

Kestrel has installed two Rinnai HDC 1500i on Natural Gas and included the unique scale inhibitor protection system.

Previously the hot water systems delivery was provided by a whole set of satellite domestic boilers dotted all over the site.

The building is a stunning villa which is a converted private residence that’s been modernised to the highest standards of comfort and practicality. It offers a delightful 50-room residential and nursing home set in three-and-a-half acres of beautiful gardens near the north Kent coast.

The home is made up of two separate buildings that provide very specialist care.

Both have the benefit of access to the glorious landscaped gardens – complete with conservatory and patio area.

The care home aims to provide as comprehensive a range of care as possible, so can offer 24-hour convalescent, respite, palliative and frail elderly nursing care.

Regular and stimulating activities are the key for social interaction and general wellbeing, and that’s why there is a packed schedule of fun activities to do.

A reliable hot water heating delivery system was needed to replace the tangle of boiler units spread over the site.

For Kestrel Julian Ringrose said, “Our brief was to make the hot water delivery system work at an optimal level of efficiency.

We chose the Rinnai 1500i units for a whole variety of reasons - reliable & continuous flow of useable hot water,

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safe temperature water distribution at all tap and shower points, overall energy efficiency and ease of installation plus minimal ongoing maintenance costs.

Hot water is vital to the wellbeing of all residents, so we needed to get it right with the right product and Rinnai was the right choice.”

Water temperature is pre-set through easy-to-use built in digital controls, eliminating the risk of scalding and potentially eradicating the need for thermostatic mixing valves. Water can be used simultaneously at several points of delivery with no loss of heat.

The Rinnai HDC 1500i range is designed for use directly off the mains, with no need for large, ungainly and energy inefficient storage vessels -and is capable of delivering in excess of 780 litres per hour at 65 degrees Celsius, therefore ensuring water temperatures ideal for preventing legionella proliferation.

Eco-labelling of products offers transparency to specifiers and end users in a clear and simple guide when sourcing the most energy efficient hot water heating units. And so, the fact that Rinnai maintains ‘A’ rated Eco-labels on all its units speaks volumes for the company’s manufacturing process and stance on supplying only the highest efficiency units to the UK market.

Rinnai products also meet and exceed the requirements of the Building Regulations Part L (fuel and power) and with these bespoke system arrangements they can offer G3 and ACOP L8 best practice too.

Any possibility of Legionella breeding is minimised as Rinnai units have no storage and can be cited close to the outlet and therefore limiting the environment for bacteria production. The Rinnai Infinity series HDC1500i/e Low NOx is capable of delivering in excess of 2000 litres per

Editor's Choice hour. It has efficiencies of up to 107% and can realistically claim to be one of the most efficient hot water heating units of its kind available in UK. The HDC1500i/e Low NOx is an on-demand style hot water heating unit – suitable for natural gas or LPG - and it has NO storage cylinder. This means that there is no needless waste of energy from constantly reheating a stored body of water for when there is demand. Energy is only used on a Rinnai unit when there is demand – simple as that.

Rinnai Infinity HDC1500i Low NOx can boost a modulation range of 59.5kW to 2.8kW, and operate at a flow rate of as low as 1.5l/min.

Thanks to this high modulation range, the Rinnai units ensure that the optimum amount of energy is used to heat the water, minimising waste and maximising system efficiencies.

There is a big potential of annualised fuel saving costs with a HDC1500i low NoX unit - these costs can be minimised next to any comparable type of storage water heater, such as gas direct fired storage water heater or indirect cylinder system connected to the heating boiler. Contact Rinnai for professional CPDS and studies on this topic.

By developing this holistic condensing technology initiative, Rinnai offers a simple, viable, cost effective, and energy efficient solution to any consumer needs for hot water.

The HDC1500i low NoX is extremely lightweight and easy to handle at just 31 kg.

For more information on the RINNAI product range visit www.rinnaiuk.com

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Does GREEN have to cost more?

Given two choices, would a product’s ‘green credentials’ sway a buying decision?

For several years, the influencing factor on the consumer has been cost. However, is the cost to the environment becoming one of the most crucial of these?

BBC One’s Blue Planet II series (2017) is immensely popular, with the first episode attracting over 14 million viewers – more than Strictly or X Factor. Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, the programme explores our amazing oceans but also highlights the human impact upon them, particularly the increased use of plastics, in all aspects of daily life, where up to 12 million tonnes per year (Greenpeace, 22 August 2017), ‘ends up in the oceans where it can be lethal’ (David

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Editor's CHoice from molten metals, such as aluminium, steel or iron, and properly maintained, could give a functional life of up to 60 years.

Most types of metal guttering can be fully recycled, having a viable scrap value. They are sold in lengths and components, in a range of shapes, sizes and profiles and can be produced in any number of colours. When Wembley Stadium was demolished in 2003, 96% of the aluminium was collected and recycled (Aluminium for Futures).

Attenborough). So, what can we do? Is there a way that we can reduce the use of plastics and what will be the cost implications of this choice?

In the construction industry there is a perception that environmentally friendly products are more expensive, and, in some instances, this is true. For example, there is a considerable cost difference in common loft insulation products and that of ‘eco’ sheep’s wool alternatives.

Plastic – or PVCu – is the most commonly used material in rainwater products, such as guttering, and is perceived as the

cheapest solution. Plastic guttering is readily available at builders’ merchants and DIY chains.

However, there are shortfalls in durability. Firstly, over time there can be issues due to the expanding and contracting of the plastic, causing problems such as warping or leaking and colour fade.

Secondly, the expected life-span is only 15–25 years, unlike other roofing materials, such as tiles, that are expected to last 50–60 years.

Finally, at the end of its functional life, plastic guttering has no scrap value and will become landfill.

Metal guttering is a practical alternative. It can be formed

However, annual maintenance is required, and could include washing down, repairing the paint finish and re-jointing. In addition, these products are significantly more expensive than PVCu goods.

Mustang® Seamless Aluminium Guttering has all the benefits of metal rainwater goods but is far closer in price to plastic guttering.

It is a unique system with no joints, meaning no leaks, and has the visual appeal of smooth, neat lines, in a non-fading range of colours. Mustang is environmentally sustainable: manufactured from a minimum of 78% recycled aluminium which can still be recycled at the end of its life, and made to the exact dimensions of the building, eliminating wastage. It is the only aluminium seamless gutter system approved by the construction industry’s accreditation body, BBA, and has a certified life expectancy of 30 years.

“The Mustang Seamless gutter is the environmentally responsible choice, with all the benefits of a metal system, at a price that is within Local Authority and Housing Association budgets. Its accredited life expectancy assists with asset planning, bringing it into line with the life expectancy of other roofing elements”.

Drew Robins, ARP Ltd Head of Specification To request a brochure or any further information on your specific needs please visit www.arp-ltd.com or call 0116 473 5625.

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Editor's choice

Trim Acoustics

has for more than twenty five years been at the forefront of building acoustics, supplying quality acoustic products from the UK’s major manufacturers to the building industry and domestic market.

Providing technical advice, site surveys and specifications to architects and developers, Trim Acoustics can assist with projects ranging from house conversions and new build properties to bespoke designs for customers who have specific requirements.

Trim Acoustics offers solutions for floors, ceilings and walls that can achieve Document E standard and with a wide range of quality acoustics products stocked at their Godmanchester warehouse they are able to offer a prompt delivery service direct to site.

Distributing a wide range of quality product for the UK’s major manufactures puts Trim Acoustics in a unique position when it comes to specifications, making it very easy to choose the most suitable product to meet both performance and cost criteria

High Density Mineral Wool

Resilient Bars Timber Stud

Trim Resound Board Peel Back Self Adhesive Strip

Board Overlap Joint

Standard Plasterboard Plaster skim

Suitable for wall and ceiling applications.

The 22mm thick board provides high performance airborne noise reduction in an easy to handle size.

The board incorporates a unique self adhesive jointing system.

With more than twenty five years technical expertise and practical experience Trim Acoustics can offer a wide range of solutions

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sales@trimacoustics.co.uk www.trimacoustics.co.uk

With a wealth of technical expertise and practical experience Trim Acoustics can offer a wide range of solutions via the telephone and on site. See www.trimacoustics.co.uk for more details or call 020-8443-0099.

Resound Acoustic Board

Tel: 020-8443-0099

Another area of Trim Acoustic expertise is the design of studios, from conversion of a garage or out building to full professional recording studios. Trim Acoustics can also advise on the upgrade of existing home studio or home cinemas.

New from Trim Acoustics

Resound

The domestic market has for many years been one of Trim Acoustic’s areas of expertise, providing acoustic solutions to people whose quality of life has been effected by noise problems.

Offering a suitable solution in plain English often means that the noise problem can be identified and resolved on the telephone and within a few days the materials can be delivered to site.

Acoustic Board System

The addition of their new production and warehouse facility in Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire which Trim Acoustics share with their sister company Coburn Sliding Systems has given them the ability to increase production and improve the quality of their range of acoustics products to satisfy increased demand.

UK Spares: your one-stop-shop for domestic and commercial electrical spares Call or email our friendly team TODAY... www.uk-spares.com or email sales@uk-spares.com Tel: 01454 620500 Twitter: @UKSpares Unit 1155, Aztec West, Almondsbury, Bristol BS32 4TF

New Developments for January Furniture Show Now well established as the principal furniture and interiors trade show in the UK calendar, the fifth January Furniture Show (JFS) at the NEC in 2019, will see major developments and major new names joining the impressive line-up.

The ever-growing list of new brands from around the world, will show alongside the already extensive list of returning UK and International names. The show will take place from 20th - 23rd January 2019.

A new Bed Zone in Hall 5, featuring Slientnight, who’s brands include Sealy and Rest Assured, will take centre stage in the hall, and new in Hall 3 will be a brand new lighting section called LIGHT. Both new developments will help to confirm the January Furniture Show as the most complete trade event for retail and contract buyers of furniture and interiors in the UK. Beds have become increasingly important to buyers at the show, with feedback from visitors at this year’s event requesting more bed companies. Joining Silentnight in the new Bed Zone will be other well-

known brands including Kaydian, MLily, Furmanac, Highgate, Slumberdream, Deep Sleep and Highgrove. Together they will form the largest concentration of bed and mattress companies at the event since its inception in 2015.

LIGHT in Hall 3 will also see many new skilled and established lighting companies at the show for the first time.

Searchlight, Oaks Lighting, Impex Lighting and Loxton Lighting are all new and will be joined by show favourite Dar Lighting, who return to the show with new

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imaginative designs. Collectively the companies showing in LIGHT will offer the most extensive array of lighting at the show to date, covering everything from large-scale light installations and chandeliers to bedside table lamps.

Increasing its stature as the hall for highend European cabinet and upholstery, Hall 2 sees new exhibitors Hartmann and Violino join the prestigious line-up for 2019. German cabinet connoisseur Gwinner returns after an absence this year, and will show alongside returning brands Ego Italiano, SITS, Italia Living, Bontempi, Skovby, ROM, Camel Group and ALF. Among other styles buyers will get the perfect opportunity in Hall 2 to select some Italian chic, Scandi minimalist design or German cabinet engineering expertise.

The 2019 January Furniture Show is still very much in the planning stages with other new developments being announced shortly. It is already getting primed to be an excellent show.

5 Halls | 4 Days | 1 Must-Attend Show Book your stand today at januaryfurnitureshow.com

Case Study: Dee Road, Richmond Dee Road, Richmond is the latest venture for Chartered Accountant and property developer, Jay Shah. This redevelopment project saw a mixed use building converted into 4 luxury flats, 1 exquisite penthouse apartment and a modern ground floor office for Mr Shah’s accountancy firm.

The open-plan luxurious living spaces, aimed at young professionals working in the city, demanded the very best interior design, “The project is in an affluent area in Surrey and required a high-end finish. Graefe doors looked aesthetically great and give a modern flat a great finish.”

A great deal of care and attention to detail has been given to every area of the development, creating the perfect balance between modern and traditional. Mr Shah chose Graefe’s Classic door in American Black Walnut with contrasting white painted stepped architrave and matching skirting to feature throughout, “The doors gave a rich finish and complemented to the colours of the interiors, giving a good mix of contemporary finishes with traditional looks.”

Mr Shah is delighted with the doors, joinery and overall service Graefe supplied, “The doors were of great quality and remarkable finish. The service received from start to finish was simply super. Emma was very polite and prompt in her service.”

On to the next project, Mr Shah is already planning on working with Graefe again, “We are looking forward to working with Graefe in our future project as preferred partner.”

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Call our friendly team today on 0‌1844 219600

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cameroninteriors.co.uk

Kitchens designed with passion Established for over 40 years, Cameron Interiors is renowned for a product that is second to none, delivered from designers with passion, and the end result being nothing short of perfection every time.

Visit our extensive Glasgow studio showcasing Bulthaup Kitchens alongside Hacker Kitchens and Silenia bedrooms or our exclusive Bulthaup Edinburgh studio and speak to one of our specialists.

Cameron Interiors 458-462 Crow Rd, Glasgow G11 7DR. 0141 334 9532 bulthaup by Cameron Interiors 31 Dundas St, Edinburgh EH3 6QQ. 0131 556 2233 info@cameroninteriors.co.uk

bathrooms, washrooms & kitchens

Purus Floor Gullies and Linear Drainage Channels installed at Leeds University’s Henry Price Building

Purus Limited, the Swedish wetroom floor drainage manufacturer, are proud to announce that their Purusline Living linear drainage channels and Mini Series floor gullies, both ideal solutions for level-access wetroom floors, have been installed in the en-suite wetrooms of Leeds University’s Henry Price Building.

The floor gullies and drainage channels offer stylish yet practical drainage solutions for the wetroom areas at the popular on-campus student accommodation facility, which is home to approximately 355 full-time students.

The Purusline Living is Purus’ linear wetroom drainage solution designed for commercial and domestic use in tiled wetrooms, showers and level-access facilities; and allows for a functional, stylish and modern shower space.

The Purusline Living channels come in lengths of 600mm and 800mm, with three options of outlet gully to suit your requirements; and three stainless steel grates to create the perfect finish. These include the Tile Insert grate, which allows

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for a minimalistic look where the tiles sit into the grate for a continuous tiled finish across the wetroom floor; and the Drop and Twist patterned grates. The Twist grate was selected for use at the Henry Price Building at Leeds University.

Also installed were floor gullies from Purus’ Mini Series range. The range includes the Minimax 50, Minimax Two Part, Mini Brage 50 and Mini Brage 110, with a further selection of special gullies also available.

the Henry Price Building. Purus’ Minimax and Mini Brage floor gullies are all BBAcertified and are featured on BIM.

All Mini Series Floor Gullies come complete with the NOOD no-odour water trap, which will not allow any foul air to come up even when dried out; and can all be installed into vinyl, tiled or resin floor finishes by choosing from a selection of stainless steel grates. Purus’ stainless steel PK155 square Drop grates were chosen for the tiled en-suite wetrooms at

You can view the full Purus product range at www.purusgroup.com, or contact Purus with any enquiries directly on 0113 289 3172/info@purusgroup.com. You can also follow Purus on Facebook by searching for ‘Purus Ltd.’ Instagram (@ PurusLimited) and Twitter (@PurusLtd) to ensure you never miss out on any product updates and company news.

PURUS LI MI T ED: H I G H Q U A L I T Y S C A N D I N AV I A N D ES I G N

Floor gullies and linear channels for wetrooms A range of level-access drainage solutions ideal for your commercial, domestic and industrial projects

From low-profile floor gullies to stainless steel linear drainage channels for tiled, vinyl and resin floor finishes, Purus Limited manufacture a huge range of drainage solutions for your commercial, domestic and industrial projects.

So why choose Purus?

The NOOD No-Odour trap is just one of many features of our Mini Series Floor Gullies and Purusline Living linear channels, and will stop any bad air escaping even when the drain is left to dry out. It’s just one of the reasons why our drains are used in so many projects like Leeds University’s Henry Price Building student residences (pictured). With many of our products certified by the BBA and with BIM Objects ready to download, Purus make the ideal choice for all of your level-access drainage requirements.

e-mail: info@purusgroup.com tel: 0113 289 3172 View product details, installation guides and much more at:

www.purusgroup.com

bathrooms, washrooms & kitchens Within the Sussex Range Collection of Stainless Steel modern classic Rails, happily sits the family of Fletching towel rails. Although more traditional in styling, these rails are still a thoroughly modern classic. The styling may well be traditional but the lines are clean and therefore current. Being manufactured from stainless steel as opposed to chrome plated means the polished rails have a deep lustrous quality and the satin finish has that modern edge. These rails really are quite stunning in the satin finish.

The Fletching rails are all 520mm wide and come in three different heights; 1185mm, 910mm and 635mm. They are priced as follows: • 1185mm x 520mm - £689.95 • 910mm x 520mm - £574.95 • 635mm x 520mm - £499.95 Additionally, and new for 2018, we have launched the Fletching 1200 Floor to Wall. This model does exactly what it says it does and is mounted from the floor to the wall. The Fletching floor to wall stands at 1200mm high by 520mm wide has a BTU of 1858 and retails at £749.00 exclusive of VAT. All the above prices are based on central heating format and a polished finish.

The rails are also available in electric only and dual fuel format, please call the office for further pricing details. The rails are offered in both a highly polished and satin finish; there is an extra 30% charge for satin finish. All rails are available from stock.

All towel rails within the Sussex Range by JIS Europe are manufactured from 100% stainless steel meaning they will not rust, flake or corrode. They can be utilised in all systems including open. Small scratches and dents can be polished out. They are a durable and environmentally sound product. The rails themselves are manufactured from over 90% recycled product and are 100% recyclable in themselves. All rails carry a 25 year guarantee.

Please do visit our website for further detai ls at www.sussexrange.co.uk or ring our friendly helpful staff on 01444 831200.

Thank you for your interest in our product.

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The team at JIS.

100% Stainless Steel Heated Towel Rails

The Sussex Range by JIS Europe Ltd Telephone +44 (0) 1444 831200 info@jiseurope.co.uk www.sussexrange.co.uk

Bathrooms, Washrooms & kitchens

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NEWS: YOUNG 2.0 TOTAL BLACK

MINIMALISM AND CLEAN LINES With a whole host of exciting product features, such as showering height of 2000mm, through to the minimal matt black, matt white of polished chrome profiling giving the enclosure a sleek and luxurious look. Coupled with the rise and fall door mechanism and the versatility to be installed on a shower tray or tiled floor, the Young collection gives you a multitude of showering options and fantastic value for money. Combine this with our Novosolid stone shower tray andfast flow with its anti-slip stone texture, stain and UV resistant, hiddenDesigned 90mm manufactured waste and can be cut down to size on site to fit difficult spaces. in MANTOVA

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IronmongeryDirect has been supplying architectural ironmongery to tradespeople for nearly 50 years. Starting out as a traditional shop, today customers can browse over 16,500 products in the catalogue and online.

IronmongeryDirect boasts the UK’s biggest range of products including door furniture, hinges, cabinet hardware, door closers and much more. There is a wide variety of popular finishes available such as brass, chrome, pewter and stainless steel ensuring the customer has everything they need to complete any job.

Orders can be placed as late as 8pm for fast next day delivery, plus all ironmongery products are covered by a minimum 5-year guarantee. IronmongeryDirect also offers the latest Sunday ordering time in the industry, enabling trades to order goods as late as 8pm for next day delivery by phone or online. If customers need any advice or technical support, they are able to contact IronmongeryDirect’s skilled and highly knowledgeable team of specialists.

Customers can also take advantage of the mobile site and app, making it even easier for tradespeople on-the-go to search for

products, place orders and track their delivery status. If for any reason a product needs to be returned customers can utilise the pre-paid returns label provided with the order.

With a great range of quality products in stock for next day delivery as standard, an award-winning service and low trade prices, IronmongeryDirect is proud to be the masters of their trade.

For more information, visit IronmongeryDirect.com or call their team of specialist advisors on 0800 168 28 28.

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16,500 PRODUCTS IN STOCK FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY From contemporary to traditional, you’ll find the right look with the UK’s BIGGEST RANGE of Ironmongery.

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ALTO Podium System

Overview The new Alto Podium System is fully certified to BS 8620:2016. Completely redesigned, extensively tested in-house and externally certified by a leading UK laboratory, the new Alto Podium sets new standards for safety at height and performance.

The Alto Podium System sets itself apart from the competition with one podium and three boosters to cover platform heights from 0.5m to 2.25m.

Podiums can be released from, or added to boosters to meet changes in demand.

The platform and steps can be stowed in secure, convenient locations on the podium unit.

Innovative in-built stabilisers are included in the podium frame and all booster variants.

All fully-assembled combinations fit through a standard doorway, and once the podium is finished with, can be folded closed separately or left assembled for ease and convenience.

PLATFORM HEIGHTS - 0.5m, 0.75m, 1.0m, 1.25m, 1.5m, 1.75m, 2.0m, 2.25m SAFE WORKING LOAD - 150kg STABILISERS - Multi-position Integral auto-locking on Podium & Boosters BRACES - Integrated arms with pinlocking connection FEET - Heavy duty high friction nonmarking rubber WHEELS - Offset, non-marking polypropylene TOEBOARD - Optional aluminium toeboard set available

Key Features Unrivalled Strength - Made with 2mm thick extruded tubes, robust heavy duty non-marking rubber feet and secure fastening systems, the Alto Podium system is designed to survive in the most demanding environments.

Economical Variation - The unique booster system allows maximum utilisation.

Attaching a podium to any one of the three boosters gives a height coverage of 0.5m to 2.25m.

Specification

• •

SYSTEM STANDARD - BS 8620:2016 PLATFORM SIZE - 600mm x 500mm

•

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Podium only - 0.5m & 0.75m Podium & Booster No.1 - 0.5m, 0.75m, 1.0m & 1.25m Podium & Booster No.2 - 0.5m, 0.75m, 1.5m & 1.75m

•

Podium & Booster No.3 - 0.5m, 0.75m, 2.0m & 2.25m

Ultimate Stability - Able to withstand side loads of up to 30kg in all configurations thanks to integral stabilisers, the Alto Podium sets new standards for podium performance.

Class-leading Loadings - Although limited by the Standard to a maximum working load of 150kg, the Alto podium has been tested to loads in excess of 300kg.

Flexible & Portable - The Alto Podium will fit though a standard door either folded or unfolded and the unit is highly manoeuvrable on its offset wheels.

Lakeside Industries Ltd Unit 19 Howard Road, Park Farm Industrial Estate, Redditch, Worcestershire. B98 7SE +44(0)1527 500577 | sales@lakeside-industries.co.uk | www.altoaccess.com

Fire Sprinkler Valve Systems Applications Engineering specialises in creating high quality fire sprinkler valves. We have developed innovative, compact and easy to install valves for sprinklers that cover all the relevant requirements for modern domestic and residential properties. Our products are of the highest standard and represent fantastic value for money. We additionally offer everything from single and double check valves that can be used in a range of applications, as well as a pump cyclic test unit.

Fire Sprinkler Valve sets 1”~ 2” Applications Engineering can supply fire sprinkler valve sets in sizes 1” and 1 1/4” in dual port versions and sizes 1 1/2” and 2” in single port fabricated versions.

We are able to supply valve sets with pvc glue fit adaptors, single or double check valves or a combination prefitted; please give us a call to discuss your requirements.

Dual Port Fire Sprinkler Valve Set Applications Engineering Ltd have developed an innovative, compact and affordable fire sprinkler valve set that covers all the requirements of a modern domestic and residential property fire sprinkler system and offers the following benefits and features Benefits and Design features • Dual ports that enable the flow switch to be mounted on either side.

• Uses the Sika flow switch which has been designed specifically for the valve set to operate at 25 L/min • The flow switch has a ¾” union nut for simple, hand tight, installation. No need for tools or awkward 360° rotation of the whole switch.

• Available with optional CPVC mating sockets.

• 100% pressure tested.

• Supplied with DIN 43650 electrical connector as standard • Lockable inlet valve handle • Glycerine filled 16 bar pressure gauge • Easy access for servicing • Space saving – compact size • Less joints minimise risk of leaks

Available in 1” (25mm) and 11/4” (32mm) versions.

PumpCheck – Fire Sprinkler Pump Cyclic Test Unit Applications Engineering introduce the PumpCheck fire sprinkler pump cyclic test unit, an easy to use and low cost all-in-one test unit to monitor four different inputs : flow switch, pressure switch, minimum tank level switch and maximum tank level switch. PumpCheck has a clear back-lit LCD display and an easy to use menu and features a 30 event log, selectable input types, ability to measure pump motor current and has outputs for drain and pump plus an external sounder output and open collector signal output.

Visit our website for further information at www.appeng.co.uk or if you would like to discuss how we can help you with your control and instrumentation needs call us on 01825 764737.

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VELUX launches competition to recognise most inventive use of roof windows in building projects Leading roof window manufacturer VELUX has launched a national competition that celebrates architects and designers for the most inventive and modern use of roof windows in a residential project.

The competition, called The VELUX Roof Window Award, is now open and invites submissions from architects based in the UK and Ireland who can showcase the design, aesthetics and detailing of any completed project that includes a VELUX roof window.

The passion VELUX has for daylight, fresh air and better living environments has led them to run the competition for a second year.

“VELUX has a reputation for providing quality products, and this has enabled designers to craft spaces that push the boundaries of design and aid pioneering construction concepts.

And it is this commitment to supporting the design and construction industry that has been the driving force behind VELUX extending the competition to across the whole of the UK and Ireland.”

The winner will receive £2,000 in prize money and a VELUX curved glass roof window to use in their next project.

The inaugral award, launched by VELUX for Scottish architects in 2017, saw Stonehaven-based Hyve Architects win the Built catergory with The Gables, an extension and renovation of a period property in the heart of Stonehaven Conservation Area. Mary Arnold-Forster Architects, based in the west coast of Scotland, won the un-built category for their project Sandbank in Iona, a stunning bungalow with four split levels that overlooks the sea to Mull.

Grant Sneddon, product manager for VELUX said: “The VELUX Roof Window Award is a great opportunity for architects and designers to be recognised for their innovative and imaginative use of daylight achieved through using roof windows to transform a building into something quite special.

For more information on the VELUX Roof Window Award and the opportunity to enter, please follow this link: http://designcompetition.velux.co.uk/

A sound investment – minimises life cost Sioo are leaders in wood protection using silicate technology. We provide a

highly effective proven system to protect wood of all types. It gives long life and a beautiful natural surface with even colouration and is friendly to people and the environment. An example of a Sioo project is Ålleberg High School, a low energy building in Falköping, Sweden.

Made in Sweden

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Sioo Wood Protection AB | www.sioox.org.uk

Environmentally friendly

0800 7833 228 sales@fireretardantuk.com

Fire Retardant & Flame Retardant UK Sole Importers of HR PROF HR PROF is tested to Euro Class B and UK Class O for spread of flame for use on cladding, log cabins, garages, summer houses, staircases, bathrooms, saunas, pool enclosures etc both internally and externally. Critical engineering properties i.e. strength, durability, hygroscopicity and corrosivity are not compromised.

• Water based - does not leach • Allows wood to breathe naturally • Internal/external application • Colourless - Odourless • EN 13501 - 1 • Non Toxic - No Solvents • BS 476 part 6 & BS 476 part 7 • Euro-class B-s1-d0 and C-s1-d0 • BM TRADA ISO 9001 Certificate • Meets the highest EU standards

www.fireretardantuk.com

Growth of manufacturer recognised at national design impact awards Sealant and adhesive manufacturer Polyseam has achieved the ultimate design accolade for the rebrand of its GRAFT product range.

Aston Martin; Josh Berger, president and managing director of Warner Bros; and renowned entrepreneur Deborah Meaden.

The Yorkshire-headquartered company and its branding agency The Engine Room were both presented with a gold design impact trophy at the glittering DBA Design Effectiveness Awards in London.

But the GRAFT project also went on to scoop the ultimate recognition of the evening when it was announced as the Grand Prix winner of winners at the end of the night.

Since GRAFT’s launch in 2014, annual sales have increased by a staggering 744% and export levels have risen by more than £1million. In fact, this transformational business exercise has played a significant part in Polyseam now building a 50,000sqm factory which is expected to create a further 50 jobs by 2020.

It was this bottom line impact that impressed the line-up of high-profile judges, which included Andy Palmer, CEO of

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Commenting on the win, Polyseam’s marketing manager Olando Salina said: “The evolving challenges in the manufacturing market mean we must continually innovate to drive growth. We therefore focused on the development of an environmentally friendly, all-in-one adhesive and sealant created using our own in-house expertise.

“This high-performance technology was already award-winning in its own right. But it didn’t achieve the traction we sought, which is why we engaged The Engine Room to help clarify our market position, overhaul the branding of this product range, and craft the communication materials we’d need moving forward. The Engine Room team has specific expertise in this field, and we were therefore delighted

when GRAFT was ‘born’. The project success is a testament to the collaboration of these forward-thinking business and design brains.”

The Engine Room’s managing director Lesley Gulliver added: “The building, construction and manufacturing sectors are perhaps not renowned for their design prowess. But this project goes to show that strategic creative thinking is about much more than just what looks good.

The overhaul of this product range and the development of the GRAFT brand has helped to revolutionise Polyseam’s entire business.”

Polyseam has been independently manufacturing first-class brands for the majority of the world’s leading suppliers since 1993. The company manufactures more than 150 different products, and exports to 21 countries globally.

For more details visit www.graft.co.uk

NEW Emission Free, Fire Retardant paint for walls, ceilings and wood.

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Successful Control or Eradication of Japanese Knotweed The last few months have seen some interesting news and events regarding Japanese knotweed.

A

pril 2018, the University of Swansea published data concluding that Japanese knotweed cannot be eradicated using herbicide alone.

June 2018, Network Rail lost their high court appeal against a judgment for causing a private nuisance by allowing knotweed on their land to affect neighbouring properties. It creates a landmark legal precedent and ‘case law’ for the control of Japanese knotweed.

July 2018, the University of Leeds published a report that found no evidence that Japanese knotweed causes significant structural damage. Co-author Dr Karen Bacon stated, “Japanese knotweed is capable of damaging built structures, but where this occurs, it is usually because an existing weakness or defect has been exacerbated.”

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So what does this all mean for property owners, designers, architects and developers?

What should be done for property refurbs or builds affected by Japanese knotweed?

1. B eware of contractors offering quick fixes and eradication solutions resulting from herbicide treatment alone.

It is advised that a knotweed specialist contractor from an industry trade

2. I f you have allowed underground knotweed rhizome to encroach into a neighbouring property you can be sued by the affected property owner.

3. T he presence of knotweed rhizome in the soils impose a financial and amenity burden on the land owner and interferes with the land’s amenity value. It is not merely due to the risk of potential physical damage, but more importantly the difficulty in using, landscaping and developing the property in the future.

body such as the Property Care Association (PCA) is involved on the project. A specialist contractor will conduct a full survey of the property providing a Knotweed Management Plan (KMP) including; the survey, survey drawing, RICS property risk category and remedial proposals. They can also ultimately provide Insurance Backed Guarantees (IBG) on their work, which are normally required by mortgage providers if the property is being sold.

Japanese Knotweed Ltd is a PCA approved contractor and undertakes all aspects of knotweed surveying, legal reporting, treatment and removal. They advise that a 10 year KMP offering herbicide treatment with an IBG

is suitable in most domestic situations. Where there are plans to disturb rhizome contaminated ground (at home or on development sites), or it’s simply undesirable to have long term herbicide treatments (and a resulting no-disturbance zone) on the property, they recommend excavation and removal of the knotweed.

Excavation projects are most successful where the knotweed contractor works with the designer, architect or developer to devise a remedial solution in-line with the development plan. Early engagement will ultimately save the client time and money.

Japanese knotweed is not to be ignored!

KNOTWEED REMOVAL SPECIALIST NATIONWIDE SERVICES

0333 241 4413 contact@knotweed.co.uk

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japaneseknotweed.co.uk •37•

Lifts, Stairs & Balustrades

Platform Lift par for the course Just 6 miles from Glasgow city centre lies the beautiful Douglas Park Golf Club, situated in the heart of Bearsden. Founded in 1897 and steeped in history, it’s also home to the Antonine Wall built in 140AD by Roman troops, which runs through the 13th and 15th holes.

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fter initial meetings with the golf committee members, Invalifts were chosen to supply and fit their premier product, the MC2000 platform lift.

Working with the main contractor, Marshall Contruction, the MC2000 lift was chosen as the ideal solution for access between the two floors of the clubhouse.

A

The lift was supplied with a solid shaft, finished in white to match the existing decoration, with glazed doors at the top and bottom. The MC2000 platform lift is supplied with its own self supporting shaft, and as there are no requirements for supporting walls or machine rooms, the unit is extremely space efficient.

The standard Part M sized platform (1120mm x 1480mm) has an overall footprint of just 1250mm x 1560mm.

Covering a travel distance of 3.2 metres, the lift was also fitted with an intercom system in case of emergency. As it was not possible to dig the required 60mm pit at the foot of the lift, a small ramp was used instead.

Just two days on site was all it took to install the MC2000 platform lift, minimising disruption and building works to the surrounding area. One of the committee members commented that “the club members are very pleased with the installation.”

To find out more about the MC2000 platform lift or other lift products, you can give Invalifts a call on 0845 468 2543 and speak to one of their friendly experts.

Platform Lifts Our range of platform lifts includes the MC2000 lift (right) - a high quality enclosed platform lift with a unique chain drive, and the option of glazing on all 4 shaft sides.

With a fantastic guarantee, and small footprints available, this is a premier platform lift.

We also offer stair platform lifts and a range of platform lifts for both internal and external use.

The Platform Lift Experts

Tel: 0845 4682543 Web: www.invalifts.com

lifts, stairs & balustrades

TO THE RESCUE! BROMSGROVE MAN GETS A STILTZ HOME LIFT AFTER STAIRLIFT FIRE BRIGADE DRAMA A 69-year-old chose a Stiltz Home Lift after he had to be rescued by the fire brigade when he became stuck on his stairlift - the third time the mechanical device had broken down in a week.

Stephen Kimberley, from Bromsgrove, was traveling downwards when his stairlift ground to a halt having moved just four steps from the top of the stairs.

Stiltz Duo Home Lift installed – which was completed by Dolphin Lifts Midlands - in the living room where he was born which travels ‘through the floor’ up to his main bedroom.

Mr Kimberley shouted for help in the hope one of his neighbours would hear him before using his mobile phone which he had in his pocket to call his sister, Pamela, who lives nearby. She rang the emergency services who were able to rescue him within minutes. The former assembly worker is asthmatic, suffers from angina and has had two knee replacement operations.

Mr Kimberley lives alone and has resided in the property his whole life after buying it from his parents. He had the stairlift installed three years ago as climbing the stairs was leaving him breathless.

He said: “I decided I wasn’t going to use the stairlift again.

I was frightened of using it in case I became trapped again – it was too nerve-wracking. I had the stairlift serviced every year and it still broke down. I didn’t know about home lifts when I bought the stairlift three years ago otherwise I would have got a Stiltz Home Lift back then.

“It was the third time in a week the stairlift had broken – it was ridiculous,” said Mr Kimberley.

“I was only on it for a second before it apparently went into overdrive and got stuck. I couldn’t get off of it!

“I yelled for help, but by the time the neighbours got around I had already called my sister who called the fire brigade. They were really quick and got me off it within a few minutes. One of the firefighters said “you’re not the first person this has happened to” so it obviously happens all the time.”

Mr Kimberley says he refused to use the stairlift again and has now had a capsule-shaped

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“It’s easy to use, runs smoothly and I feel safe. It is electricpowered and plugs straight into the wall. I had a power cut the other day while I was in the lift but, because it has a battery back-up, it brought me back down safely until the power came back on again.

The lift has improved my life and made me more mobile.

I’ve no anxiety about using it.

It’s one small step in, push a button and I’m off.”

After living at the same house for his entire life, Mr Kimberley insisted he would never consider moving to a bungalow. “I love this house,” he added. “It would be too difficult to leave and I don’t think I would settle anywhere else. We’re a close-knit community and if the neighbours haven’t seen me for a couple of days they always knock on the door to make sure I’m ok, so I’m happy here.”

The UK’s Best Solar & Mains LED Belisha Beacons High quality, fully highways and CE compliant 3 year Warranty - 5 year extended available In stock for next day delivery Made by us in Somerset - supplied nationwide and overseas Post top or purpose made column versions

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Windows, Doors & Architectural Hardware

ARCHITECTS SET TO WELCOME NEW MODULAR SLIDING DOOR SYSTEM AIMED AT PREMIUM AND MIDDLE MARKET PROJECTS Continuous improvements and modifications in the Schueco range of sliding doors help to secure the company’s deserved reputation as the UK’s leading system innovator. The latest product range to be launched has the advantage of being modular and fully scalable thus maximising architects’ freedom to choose, whatever the type of project.

The launch of the new Schueco ASE 60 and 80.HI range of sliding doors is an important development not just for the company but also, more importantly, for clients and end-users.

Architects working on medium to high-end projects can specify from a single range and be confident that they will find in it a product of exceptional quality that can be tailored to suit their needs exactly. This will impact favourably on decision-making and should lead to a streamlining of the whole specification process.

Covering both sliding and lift-and-slide doors, the new Schueco ASE 60 and 80 platform comprises fifteen opening types including six single-track options. The result is greater choice, maximum design flexibility and the ability to accommodate widely differing project requirements.

As the name suggests, Schueco ASE 60 and 80 doors have a basic frame depth of either 60 mm or 80 mm with a maximum vent size of 3.2 m x 3.5 m or 3.5 m x 3.2m, which is the largest currently being offered in the market.

Maximum vent weights are equally impressive, with both systems being able to accommodate loads of up to 350

•42•

kg, offering the possibility of enhanced thermal performance through triple glazing.

Rollers positioned in the middle of the vent distribute the weight evenly, minimising friction and ensuring that vents move particularly smoothly.

The inclusion of SmartStop or SmartClose technology further ensures safe, troublefree operation.

The thickness of the glass that can be used also varies: a Schueco ASE 60 door can accommodate glass with a thickness from 24 mm to 40 mm, while the thicknesses for a Schueco ASE 80.HI door are from 36 mm to 60 mm.

Schueco ASE 60 and 80.HI doors all share certain characteristics: for example, profile sightlines have been kept narrow (from 82 mm) throughout, enabling the doors to deliver all the benefits of Schueco’s traditional sliding systems with enhanced transparency similar to a panoramic system.

Both systems exhibit exceptional thermal performance. The Schueco ASE 60, in spite of its narrow depth, offers Uw of up to 1.1 W/m2K, while the high-performance Schueco ASE 80.HI meets stringent Passive House standards.

Architects are therefore given the freedom to specify the Schueco ASE door system of their choice, knowing that the thermal performance will meet the precise energy requirements stipulated in the client’s brief.

Security levels across the range are up to RC 2 and every system features slimline meeting-stiles and a flush threshold that overcomes the possibility of accidents.

A Design Line option is available on all the doors. Design Line offers enhanced design benefits such as concealed fittings that leave the visible surfaces of the vent and outer frame completely flush and a slimline interlock with a 40 mm sight-line that delivers today’s preferred ‘more glass, less frame’ look allowing maximum light transmission.

Additional features of the Schueco ASE 60 and 80 range include profiles that, being symmetrically identical, enable the vent to be positioned on either the inside or the outside.

For further information on the Schueco ASE 60 and 80.HI range of sliding doors, please email mkinfobox@schueco.com or visit www.schueco.co.uk

Just one touch tells you all you need to know Open a Schueco sliding door and the rigidity, effortless action and solid clunk as it closes proclaim one thing: quality. Systems include doors that slide, lift-and-slide and have hidden frames that deliver outstanding panoramic views.

Also available: slender-profiled windows, slimline façades and super-secure entrance doors, all with the highest levels of insulation that can be up to Passive House standard.

For German engineering made in Britain, there’s only one name.

www.schueco.co.uk

Windows, Doors & Architectural Hardware

Control your roof windows with your voice for a healthier living environment New smart home solution VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO compatible with Apple® HomeKit™ lets you control roof windows with your voice or at the touch of a button rom today, homeowners can for the first time ever tell their roof windows to open or close for a better and healthier living environment. Global roof window leader VELUX and smart home company Netatmo launch VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO, the first ‘plug-and-play’ smart home solution for remote sensor-based operation of roof windows, blinds and shutters.

F

VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO is the first smart roof window system that connects with Apple HomeKit, allowing homeowners to manage indoor climate control at home or remotely across all Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and HomePod. The system can be controlled using Siri®, Apple’s voice-controlled intelligent assistant, or with the touch of a button on the Apple Home app.

According to research we spend a staggering 90 per cent of our time indoors and often forget to ventilate our homes. But now if it’s too hot or too cold in your home, if the air starts to smell or it’s damp, the new smart home system from VELUX automatically airs out the room for you.

“We are extremely excited to see how consumers will respond to our smart home innovation that makes it easy to have a comfortable and healthy home,” says Kent Holm, SVP, global product management, the VELUX Group.

Sensor-based automatic operation Built on the newest smart-sensor technology, the VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO system, developed in partnership with the leading smart home company Netatmo, thinks and acts on your behalf. Smart indoor sensors monitor the temperature, humidity and CO2 concentration inside the home and activate a gateway to open or close the roof windows to improve the climate indoors.

“Few are aware of the impact of indoor air on their health and wellbeing, but the air we breathe is just as important as the food we eat or the water we drink. An average adult

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breathes in around 15,000 litres of air every single day and spends up to 90 per cent of their time indoors.

A healthy indoor climate goes way beyond simple convenience, which our new smart home solution ensures,” continued Holm.

The smart home device is preprogrammed so that roof windows automatically open to let fresh air into your home when needed. The device also prevents homes from overheating by proactively closing shutters and awning blinds.

Effortless control giving you peace of mind in your pocket VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO works along with a control app for iOS and Android. Therefore, you can manage and monitor your windows with a few touches on your smartphone using the Apple Home app across all Apple devices and VELUX ACTIVE’s own app.

“VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO is the result of two stunning technologies: high standard VELUX windows and Netatmo’s know-how for creating simple and useful products and applications. By automating the opening, closing and shading of roof windows, we can make a big difference and improve indoor climate so users don’t have to worry about it. We created a smart sensor-based solution that is not only easy to use and reliable, but also beneficial for user’s wellbeing,” added Fred Potter, founder and CEO of Netatmo.

Health and wellbeing added to smart homes The market for smart home solutions which can connect electrical devices in your home to the internet is booming. Worldwide the smart home market is predicted to grow to around $53.45 billion by 2022 (Statista 2018). Smart home technologies enable you to control household

appliances like refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, clothes driers, coffee makers and kettles through apps and automatic regulation.

“Smart homes continue to be an important consumer trend and are expected to be mainstream within the next four years. By digitalising the operation of roof windows to automatically improve your indoor climate, we’re adding a health and wellbeing dimension to the intelligent home and pushing innovation in this area to the next level,” continued Holm.

Through the integration with Apple HomeKit, VELUX roof windows, blinds and shutters become part of the growing smart home product family that’s improving health, comfort and convenience in homes.

For more, information, visit www.velux.com

Rinnai training courses contractors, installers

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tailored for & specifiers

Rinnai hot water – instant, continuous, limitless and sensibly economic for every type of commercial site Rinnai has announced a series of contractor/ installer-based training courses for the coming months. The courses - titled Rinnai Installation, Service and Repair will take place at the company headquarters in Runcorn, Cheshire on the following dates: Thurs 26/07/2018; Thurs 30/08/2018; Thurs 27/09/2018.

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Rinnai’s continuous programme of training modules has been revised to meet and exceed the needs of heating engineers & contractors as specifiers from all sectors strive for energy saving benefits and high performance in the delivery of commercial levels of hot water.

Rinnai claims to have the only complete and comprehensive range of highly efficient ErP labelled A-rated continuous flow water heaters on the UK market, from the smallest domestic model to the super-sized industrial units.

The company’s purpose-built training facility is based at its Runcorn, Cheshire Headquarters. Equipped with all the latest training aids, attendees can familiarise themselves with all aspects of continuous flow technology - from system design and installation through to maintenance.

The hands-on training courses, tailored to the range of customers served by Rinnai, cover both traditional and new technologies for commercial water heating and the dramatic cost reductions that can be achieved by utilisation of a continuous flow hot water system.

Courses can be arranged to suit individual requirements either at Rinnai’s HQ or, if preferred, the company’s training team will take the module to the workplace or other venue convenient to delegates. “For example,” says Rinnai training specialist Phil Nolan, “we have recently organised in-house installer training courses for some of the big energy companies, councils, independent contractors and other public and private sector organisations in the UK and the Republic of Ireland.”

CPD Roadshow courses are also available, designed by the company for M&E consultants and specifiers, design and build engineers, facilities managers and gas contractors.

These courses have already attracted praise from CIBSE. For example, it says of the CONTINUOUS FLOW WATER HEATING SYSTEM SIZING AND DESIGN course in an appraisal: “The course delivers what it outlines and is well constructed.”

“Our flexible training offering ensures key market personnel at all levels can benefit from nationwide training from our highly skilled team of technical experts, guaranteeing they are up to speed with changes in legislation and product developments,” says Chris Goggin, Rinnai UK Associate Director.

For more information contact Phil Nolan direct by emailing him on PhilNolan@rinnaiuk.com For more details on RINNAI products visit www.rinnaiuk.com

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Walkability: The 11th step Variation on a theme - following in James Speck’s footsteps: “Walkable City - How downtown can save America, one step at a time” Curiously, this experience is shared by most of us in the modern era. We are travelling the world, “expecting” to find our way, with some obvious mundane difficulties. In an ideal world, it shouldn’t really go unnoticed. But it is.

In my view, walkability should incorporate better common rules for outdoors wayfinding signage so that the average person may expect better orientation even in unfamiliar urban spaces.

Lancaster - the most walkable city in Pennsylvania

alkability, a relatively new term in modern Architecture and sustainable urban design, measuring how friendly an urban area is to walking. It pertains to health, environment, and economic benefits and discusses, among other things, the presence or absence and quality of footpaths, sidewalks or other pedestrian rights-of-way, traffic and road conditions, land use patterns, building accessibility, and safety.

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In Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time (public library), city planner Jeff Speck argues that walkable cities would improve lives for American urban dwellers to greater extent than any attempts to create “greener” living conditions in the personal space.

I found Kaid Benfield summary of Speck’s ten steps of walkability quite comprehensive for my further argument, and although I somewhat do

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not agree with Benfield’s latter analysis, I think that one more important step is required. I am talking about wayfinding signage. One may argue that this is included in the entire concept of attractive building faces, traffic and road conditions or “comfort”. Yet it is often noticed only by its absence. Good wayfinding signage may encourage people to walk the city, to a greater extent than realized by many.

Imagine that: You travel to a foreign country, unfamiliar with the language, trying to get from A to B using a somewhat inferior city map supplied by your hotel or local tourist office and simply cannot locate your current location and direction you need to go to. Sounds familiar?

Wouldn’t better wayfinding signage (including street names, visible numbers, traffic signs, directions and building names) improve your orientation and comfort? Wouldn’t you give anything to be able to easily locate and read the signs?

Not only in America, but worldwide, inadequate wayfinding signage is often emanating from budget considerations, without realizing the human aspects of the issue.

A beautiful building, complex, shopping mall or neighborhood is being built in the urban sphere - but around it and inside structures, people get lost.

I challenge you to read Speck’s work with a fresh look at his previously suggested 10 good steps, thinking how wayfinding signage fits the overall scheme of things.

Written by Pnina Kedar Feldman, International Business Development and Sales Manager at Vista System

For further information, visit www.vistasystem.co.uk or contact Client Service at Vista System Ltd., Tel: 080-0051-8885, Email: info@vistasystem.co.uk

HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

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